VIP Manager - H/J Show Facility

This established organization sits at the intersection of world-class equestrian sport, entertainment, technology, and luxury hospitality. Its team produces premier equestrian experiences in multiple disciplines, bringing together high-level competition, elevated guest service, and memorable live events.
The organization is preparing for upcoming CSI3* and CSI5*-W international show-jumping competitions in Southern California and is seeking an experienced hospitality professional to lead the VIP experience. This is an exciting opportunity for someone who understands that the smallest details can make the biggest impression and enjoys building genuine relationships with high-value guests.

We are looking for a polished, highly organized Horse Show VIP Manager to oversee the premium hospitality experience for two international show-jumping events. This individual will serve as the primary point of contact for VIP clients from pre-event planning through on-site execution, ensuring every guest feels welcomed, informed, and exceptionally well cared for.

Working closely with the hospitality, marketing, sales, production, facilities, food and beverage, and operations teams, the VIP Manager will coordinate all of the details behind a seamless premium experience. This person will also supervise the VIP Hostess, develop lasting guest relationships, and identify opportunities to encourage repeat attendance, referrals, and premium hospitality sales.

This role will work remotely during the planning stages but must be available to travel to Southern California as required before and throughout each event. The ideal candidate is equally comfortable developing seating plans and arrival communications behind the scenes as they are personally welcoming discerning guests in a fast-paced, high-profile environment.

- Manage the on-site VIP hospitality program and coordinate with food and beverage, event production, marketing, sales, facilities, decor, and audiovisual teams.
- Develop hospitality floor plans, seating assignments, attendance forecasts, meal schedules, and plans for dietary restrictions and other guest needs.
- Ensure all hospitality spaces remain clean, welcoming, organized, and presentation-ready throughout each event.
- Serve as the primary contact for a portfolio of VIP clients while thoughtfully delegating additional guest relationships to the VIP Hostess.
- Coordinate clear pre-event and arrival information, including credentials, parking, access instructions, and "Know Before You Go" materials.
- Personally welcome guests, support check-in, escort attendees to assigned tables or lounges, and resolve questions or concerns with discretion.
- Supervise and mentor the VIP Hostess, including daily assignments, guest coverage, and service expectations.
- Assist with premium ticket fulfillment, guest issue resolution, and walk-up hospitality sales when appropriate.
- Build lasting client relationships that encourage loyalty and repeat attendance while identifying opportunities for upgrades, additional experiences, and referrals.
- Develop guest feedback initiatives and use findings to improve future events and hospitality offerings.
- Plan and execute the organization's highest-level VIP gifting program.

- Familiarity with equestrian sport, luxury lifestyle events, or international sporting competitions is required - focus on the Hunter/Jumper disciplines is strongly preferred.

- Previous experience in VIP guest services, luxury hospitality, premium events, client relations, or a comparable high-touch environment.
- Highly organized and detail-oriented, with excellent follow-through and the ability to manage many moving pieces at once.
- Polished, confident communicator with strong judgment, emotional intelligence, and discretion.
- Comfortable working in a fast-paced, high-expectation environment where guest needs and event priorities may shift quickly.
- Strong critical-thinking and problem-solving skills, with a hands-on attitude and willingness to step in wherever needed.
- Collaborative, inclusive work style and the ability to coordinate effectively across multiple departments.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office and common office and event-planning software.
- Able and willing to travel to Southern California as required for advance planning and on-site event execution.

- Remote Opportunity through planning stages

- Travel and California accommodations covered by company

- 4 month contract with opportunity to extend

- Flexible compensation range depending on skills & experience 

     *Range not yet defined, but will be determined based on applicants