Manager of Event Operations

Job Title: Manager of Event Operations

FLSA Status: Exempt

Supervises: 6-12

Position Status: Regular/Full Time

LJA Mission Statement:

The mission of Lake Junaluska is to be a place of Christian hospitality where lives are transformed through renewal of soul, mind and body.  

Located in the Smoky Mountains of Western North Carolina, Lake Junaluska plays a vital role by providing a location for training and renewal.  Each year Lake Junaluska will host over 200,000 guests who are engaged in spiritual training, recreation or renewal events and activities.  Our guests include religious, non-profit and secular groups.  We are also a residential and vacation community. 

Position Summary: 

The Manager of Event Operations is a key leadership role responsible for overseeing event services, custodial operations, recreation, and assisting with media services at Lake Junaluska. This position requires independent judgement in managing staff, developing operational policies, and optimizing departmental efficiency. This role requires strong leadership, problem-solving, and decision-making skills to enhance operational effectiveness, maintain service quality, and uphold the organization’s commitment to hospitality.

Essential Functions

• Must possess excellent hospitality skills and a strong desire to foster an attitude of Christian hospitality to “exceed guest expectations”.

• Develop and implement operational policies and procedures to improve efficiency, service quality and guest satisfaction across Event Operations departments. 

• Exercise independent judgment in resolving guest concerns, staff performance issues, and operational challenges across the Event Operations departments. 

• Responsible for accountability of event services staff in the fulfillment of daily assignments, quality of work, completing work timely and within budget. 

• Supervise staff scheduling, hiring, and performance evaluations, ensuring accountability and optimizing departmental efficiency. 

• Oversee payroll and timecard approvals for event services, media and recreation staff; ensuring accuracy, compliance with labor regulations, and adherence to budgetary guidelines. Address discrepancies and coordinate with human resources as needed. 

• Monitor and document employee performance issues, including safe work practices, and complete necessary performance appraisal paperwork and submit them to the Director of Event Operations.

• Oversee event logistics and recreation operations, making independent decisions regarding resource allocation and workflow adjustments.

• Serve as a liaison between senior leadership and department staff, communicating organizational priorities and recommending strategic improvements based on performance metrics and guest feedback.

• Maintain inventory of custodial and event services equipment, maintain organization of storage closets, requisition supplies, and report departmental needs to leadership. 

• Support Director of Event Operations with the supervision and oversight of the Media Department, including the Media Coordinator and Media staff. 

• Assist and support the Director of Event Operations with departmental budgeting, financial planning, and procurement strategies. 

• Report maintenance concerns in meeting rooms and event spaces, and ensure timely responses to operational needs related to safety, cleanliness, and functionality.

• Track and enter department purchase receipts into accounting systems. 

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