Director of Facilities & Stadium Operations

POSITION OVERVIEW

The Director of Facilities & Stadium Operations is responsible for the overall maintenance, safety, cleanliness, and operational readiness of Durham Bulls Athletic Park. This position leads the Stadium Operations Department, including full-time staff, seasonal employees, contractors, and vendors, and ensures the facility meets all regulatory, safety, and event-related requirements. The Director manages budgets, oversees capital improvement projects, maintains infrastructure and equipment, and collaborates across departments to support a best-in-class experience for players, coaches, fans, partners, and all ballpark stakeholders.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Facility Operations & Maintenance

• Lead and oversee the day-to-day operations of the stadium, including event setup and breakdown, general cleaning, facility appearance, and routine maintenance.
• Manage repairs, custodial services, HVAC systems, field and grounds maintenance (in coordination with Field Operations), and overall facility readiness.
• Establish, implement, and maintain stadium-wide general, regular, and preventive maintenance schedules for both in-season and off-season periods.
• Ensure all mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and infrastructure systems operate safely and effectively.

Safety, Compliance & Procedures

• Develop, maintain, and update all facility policies and procedures, including the Emergency Action Plan and Standard Operating Procedures.
• Ensure compliance with all applicable federal, state, MiLB/MLB, and local regulations related to health, safety, building operations, and security.
• Coordinate emergency preparedness and response activities in collaboration with contracted security staff and local authorities.
• Maintain accurate records of inspections, permits, safety reports, and compliance documentation.

Event Operations

• Collaborate with the Events Department to plan and prepare the stadium for baseball games, special events, concerts, and community activities.
• Oversee event-day operations including seating bowl hosts, housekeeping, parking/transportation operations, security and Wool E. World.
• Ensure all stadium spaces, equipment, and operational areas are properly staffed, prepared, and functioning for each event.

Capital Projects & Vendor Management

• Lead planning, budgeting, and execution of capital improvement projects related to the stadium.
• Oversee vendor and contractor relationships including, but not limited to, housekeeping, pest control, fire alarm/suppression, elevator services, waste management, and general maintenance service agreements.
• Ensure work performed by contractors meets quality standards, timelines, and budgetary constraints.

Budgeting & Administration

• Develop, manage, and adhere to the annual operating budget for stadium operations.
• Track expenditures, forecast needs, and manage purchasing supplies, equipment, and services.
• Maintain detailed event and project records throughout the year to produce an Annual Summary and Strategic Plan outlining achievements, challenges, and goals for the upcoming year.

Leadership & Staff Management

• Recruit, hire, train, schedule, and supervise full-time, part-time, and seasonal Stadium Operations staff.
• Provide leadership that promotes a culture of safety, professionalism, and operational excellence.
• Ensure staff are properly trained in emergency procedures, customer service, and stadium policies.

Technology & Systems

• Utilize and maintain Building Management Systems (BMS) and Computerized Maintenance Management Systems (CMMS) for effective tracking and management of facility operations.
• Monitor stadium technology systems as related to operations, including lighting controls, HVAC automation, and work-order systems.

QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS

• Bachelor's degree in engineering, project management, facilities management, sports management, or a related field; and at least five (5) years of facilities, grounds, or construction experience at a management level; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Minimum of 5 years of facilities and grounds maintenance or construction experience, preferably connected to sports venues, live entertainment, or large public facilities.
• Minimum of 3 years in a managerial or supervisory role.
• Demonstrated experience in event operations, project management, and vendor/contractor oversight.
• Meticulous, process-driven self-starter with strong attention to detail and the ability to understand, follow, and improve operational workflows.
• Experience with Building Management Systems (BMS) and/or Computerized Maintenance Management Systems (CMMS) preferred.
• HVAC or HVAC/R Certification a plus.
• Electrical license a plus.
• Strong understanding of safety regulations, emergency planning, and compliance standards.
• Excellent communication, leadership, problem-solving, and organizational skills.