Director of Event Services- Albuquerque Convention Center

POSITION:                   Director of Event Services     

REPORTS TO:              General Manager

DEPARTMENT:            Executive

FLSA STATUS:             Exempt

The Albuquerque Convention Center, Kiva Auditorium, Civic Plaza, ABQ Rail Yards, and Jennifer Riordan Spark Kindness Sports Complex are the City of Albuquerque’s premier event venues hosting the region’s largest and most impactful events.

Legends Global is the premier partner to the world's greatest live events, venues, and brands. We deliver a fully integrated solution of premium services that keeps our partners front and center through our white-label approach. Our network of 450 venues worldwide, hosting 20,000 events and entertaining 165 million guests each year, is powered by our depth of expertise and level of execution across every component feasibility & consulting, owner’s representation, sales, partnerships, hospitality, merchandise, venue management, and content & booking of world-class live events and venues.The Legends Global culture is one of respect, ambitious thinking, collaboration, and bold action. We are committed to building an inclusive workplace where everyone can be authentic, make an impact, and grow their career. Winning is an everyday thing at Legends Global. We have the best team members who understand every win is earned when we come together as one unified team. Sounds like a winning formula for you. Join us!

SUMMARY:

The Director of Event Services is responsible for the strategic planning, management, and execution of all event services to ensure exceptional client experiences and operational excellence. This key leadership role oversees event planning, logistics, client relations, vendor management, budgeting, staffing, and service delivery for meetings, conferences, conventions, weddings, corporate events, and special programs. The Director of Event Services works closely with clients, internal departments, and external partners to deliver successful events that align with organizational goals and brand standards.

KEY DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:

Event Strategy & Leadership

• Develop and implement event service strategies that support organizational objectives and client expectations.
• Lead, mentor, and manage the Event Services team, fostering a culture of excellence, accountability, and collaboration.
• Establish service standards, operational procedures, and best practices for event execution.
• Evaluate event performance and implement continuous improvement initiatives.

Event Planning & Operations

• Oversee all phases of event planning and execution, from concept development through post-event evaluation.
• Ensure seamless coordination of logistics, including venue setup, audiovisual requirements, catering, transportation, guest services, and event timelines.
• Manage event calendars, schedules, and resource allocation.
• Monitor on-site event operations to ensure quality service and successful outcomes.

Client & Stakeholder Management

• Serve as the primary point of contact for high-profile clients and key stakeholders.
• Conduct client consultations to understand objectives, requirements, budgets, and expectations.
• Develop and maintain strong relationships with clients, vendors, sponsors, and community partners.
• Resolve client concerns professionally and efficiently.

Financial Management

• Develop and manage event budgets, forecasts, and financial performance metrics.
• Negotiate contracts and pricing with vendors, suppliers, and service providers.
• Monitor expenses and identify opportunities for cost savings and operational efficiencies.
• Ensure accurate billing, revenue tracking, and financial reporting.

Vendor & Contract Management

• Source, evaluate, and manage vendor partnerships.
• Negotiate contracts and service agreements to achieve favorable terms.
• Ensure vendor compliance with organizational policies, service standards, and safety regulations.
• Maintain strong supplier relationships to support successful event delivery.

Team Leadership & Development

• Recruit, train, supervise, and evaluate event services personnel.
• Develop staffing plans to support event schedules and operational requirements.
• Conduct performance reviews and provide ongoing coaching and professional development.
• Promote teamwork and employee engagement.

Risk Management & Compliance

• Ensure compliance with safety regulations, licensing requirements, and company policies.
• Develop contingency plans and manage risk associated with event operations.
• Oversee emergency response procedures and incident management.
• Maintain appropriate event documentation and records.

Reporting & Analytics

• Track key performance indicators (KPIs) for event success, client satisfaction, and financial performance.
• Prepare operational and executive reports on event outcomes.
• Use data and feedback to improve service delivery and drive strategic decision-making.

Qualifications

Education and/or Experience

• Bachelor’s degree from accredited four-year college or university with a minimum of three (3) years’ industry experience with at least one (1) of those years in a management function of a convention center, theatre or similar property; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Certificates, Licenses, Registrations

• None

Skills and Abilities

• Strong leadership and team management abilities.
• Excellent project management and organizational skills.
• Exceptional communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills.
• Strong financial acumen and budget management experience.
• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously in a fast-paced environment.
• Proficiency with event management software, CRM systems, and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Strong problem-solving and decision-making capabilities.
• Customer-focused mindset with a commitment to service excellence.

Physical Demands

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to move around the facility; to stand for long hours during events.  This position may require work inside or outside of the building, as needed for events.
• Physical ability to perform tasks that may require prolonged standing, sitting and other activities necessary to perform job duties.  Ability to lift and/or move up to 50 pounds.
• Willingness to work evenings, weekends, and holidays based on event schedules.

NOTE: The essential responsibilities of this position are described under the headings above. They may be subject to change at any time due to reasonable accommodation or other reasons. Also, this document in no way states or implies that these are the only duties to be performed by the employee occupying this position.

Legends Global is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer, and encourages Women, Minorities, Individuals with Disabilities, and protected Veterans to apply. VEVRAA Federal