Director of Special Events

The Director of Events is a senior leadership position responsible for the strategic development, commercial success, and operational oversight of the Events business unit. The Director of Events will develop and execute business strategies focused on event sales, revenue generation, profitability, client acquisition, and operational excellence. Serve as a member of the Executive Committee, contributing to organizational strategy, business planning, and long-term growth initiatives.Partner with the Managing Director, Chief Commercial Sales Officer and other members of the executive leadership team to establish strategic objectives for events, premium experiences, and revenue growth.Develop and execute a long-term business strategy for the Events division, including growth targets, profitability objectives, and market positioning.In partnership with the Group Revenue Management team, establish the commercial model for the Events business, including pricing strategies, event packaging, commission structures, vendor partnerships, and revenue optimization initiatives.Lead planning efforts associated with venue expansion projects, new event offerings, and premium guest experiences.Provide regular reporting and analysis regarding sales performance, event activity, profitability, forecasting, and business development efforts.Represent the Events division in leadership meetings and cross-functional planning initiatives. Lead the development and execution of event sales strategies designed to maximize venue utilization, revenue generation, and profitability.Establish annual sales goals, revenue targets, and business development objectives.Identify and cultivate relationships with corporate clients, event planners, tourism partners, destination management companies, community organizations, and other key stakeholders.Develop event packages, pricing strategies, proposals, and promotional offerings that align with market demand and organizational objectives.Monitor sales activity, booking trends, conversion rates, pipeline performance, and revenue forecasts to ensure performance goals are achieved.Partner with Marketing to develop initiatives that increase event visibility, lead generation, and booking opportunities.Identify new business opportunities, sponsorship opportunities, strategic partnerships, and premium experiences that support long-term growth.Develop and maintain a robust sales pipeline while ensuring consistent follow-through from lead generation through contract execution and event delivery.Analyze market trends and competitor offerings to identify opportunities for innovation and revenue growth. Build, lead, and develop a high-performing Events team focused on revenue generation, client service, accountability, and operational excellence (Event Sales team expected to include 3-5 individuals when fully staffed).Create an entrepreneurial, solutions-oriented culture within a newly expanded business unit that encourages innovation, ownership, collaboration, and continuous improvement.Provide coaching, mentorship, performance management, and professional development opportunities for team members.Support workforce planning, staffing strategies, resource allocation, and organizational development initiatives.Foster strong partnerships across departments to ensure alignment between sales, operations, marketing, and guest experience objectives.Maintain strong communication and alignment with executive leadership regarding priorities, performance, growth opportunities, and business objectives.