General Manager of Will Rogers Memorial Center

Job Summary:

Gendy Street Management Corp (GSMC) is looking for a General Manager of the Will Rogers Memorial Center (WRMC). The General Manager is responsible for the efficient and professional operation of the memorial center. The position is responsible for the overall management, promotion, and operation of the facility, as well as the development and coordination of strategies for the success of the venue.

Essential Job Functions:

• Address the mission-critical needs of enhancing business development, improving operational excellence, and improving customer service responsiveness.
• Provides day-to-day management for the overall operation of the facilities and management oversight of departmental areas.
• Oversee planning, scheduling, coordination, and execution of equestrian & livestock events, galas, trade shows, banquets, conventions, community events, etc.
• Evaluate operational performance and implement improvements to maximize efficiency and customer satisfaction.
• Develop and implement operational goals, policies, procedures, and long-term business strategies
• Serves as the primary liaison between the venue, city leadership, event promoters, community organizations, vendors, and stakeholders to ensure exceptional guest experiences and long-term venue success.
• Communicates and works with representatives of various business organizations, community groups, and show groups. Regarding facility accommodations and services for conventions, trade shows, consumer shows, entertainment productions, banquets, and community events.
• Coordinate with promoters, clients, vendors, exhibitors, entertainers, and even organizers to ensure successful event execution.
• Ensure compliance with all city regulations, safety standards, licensing requirements, and contractual obligations.
• Prepare the proposed annual operating budget, with updates and forecasts for revenues and expenditures.
• Performs contract administration duties, including evaluating proposals and bids, negotiating and recommending contract terms, evaluating performance, and ensuring compliance with contract agreements.
• Monitor revenue streams, expenses, contracts, and profitability of venue operations.
• Analyze financial reports and operational metrics to support strategic decision-making.
• Make recommendations for capital improvements.
• Plans for existing and future staffing, equipment, and material needs.
• Analyze and make recommendations related to complex, sensitive, and controversial issues.
• Make recommendations on fees, rules, and regulations of the facilities.
• Ensure compliance with employment laws, city policies, and workplace safety standards.
• Monitor facility readiness, maintenance, cleanliness, security, and crowd management.
• Review effectiveness of programs and initiate changes where appropriate.
• Responding to client concerns and resolving operational issues in a professional and timely manner.
• Support marketing and public relations initiatives to enhance venue visibility and attendance.
• Prepare reports and correspondence as needed.
• Promote employee development, teamwork, and operational excellence.
• Foster a positive, service-oriented culture focused on professionalism, accountability, and guest satisfaction.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university in Business/Hospitality/Agricultural Management/Recreation & Tourism or a related field. An equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered.
• Minimum of 5 -7 years of management experience in an arena, convention center, hotel, or other similar public assembly facility.
• Experience managing large public events, trade shows, and/or agricultural or livestock events preferred.
• Knowledge of current industry practices and practices in the operation and leadership of an exposition center, convention center, arena, or similar public assembly facility.
• Ability to research, develop, and maintain relationships with various event organizers/promoters.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective relationships with business representatives, civic groups, service organizations, state and local officials, staff members, and the general public.
• Ability to manage a complex budget and increase revenue through promotion and marketing of the facility as a year-round venue.
• Ability to manage large events, with potentially high-stress incidents, while under public scrutiny.
• Considerable knowledge of safety regulations and other federal, state, or local laws and regulations.
• Knowledge of principles of planning, administration, management, and personnel supervision.
• Ability to analyze situations accurately and to take effective actions
• Ability to work a flexible schedule including – nights, weekends, and holidays.
• Able to communicate effectively with management, guests, and team members.
• Ability to handle multiple tasks in a fast-paced, high-energy environment.

Working Conditions:

• Employees will work in an environment with fluctuating temperatures.
• Employees must have the ability to lift, push, and pull up to 50 lbs.
• Employees will regularly work around animals typically found in a fair/4H/FFA environment (horses, cattle, pigs, sheep, dogs, etc.).
• Employees may spend the majority of their day working on a computer and other office devices.
• Employees may regularly spend their shift standing/walking, traveling stairs, with limited to no sitting.
• Employees will be exposed to high noise levels and/or fluctuating lights in event settings.
• Employees must have the ability to reach, lift, and bend to perform job duties throughout the shift.
• Employees will be exposed to hazardous chemicals, electrical shock risks, and vibrations throughout the shift.
• Employees may be exposed to hazards associated with moving vehicles and require strict adherence to safety protocols.

Other Duties and Notices:

• This job description is not designed to contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities that are required. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.
• Human resources and other resources related to employment will be administered by Trail Drive Management Corp (TDMC).