Events Operations Manager

The National Building Museum inspires curiosity about the world we design and build.

We are a private non-profit institution that transforms understanding of the history and impact of architecture, engineering, landscape architecture, and design. The National Building Museum educates, entertains, and engages people about the built environment and challenges them to advocate for a sustainable and equitable future.

Position Description

The National Building Museum seeks an experienced Events Operations Manager to join our events department and continue the tradition of being the ideal location for a wide variety of successful events. Since 1885, the National Building Museum has been the stage for Washington D.C.’s most elegant events, from nonprofit fundraisers to Presidential Inaugural celebrations! The unrestricted revenue generated allows the Museum to continue our work to inspire curiosity about the world we design and build.

The Events Operations Manager will work with the Event Sales Manager once contracts are signed through execution of events from small to large. The ideal candidate will bring to the Museum an impressive background in event venue management, working with existing and new clients as well as vendors to ensure adherence to building and event guidelines. This full-time exempt position will initially report to the Vice President of Operations and Strategy and embodies the values of the Museum and is a leader in building an inclusive and equitable environment for colleagues, clients and visitors.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Positively and professionally represent the National Building Museum to outside entities at all times.
• Coordinate with GSA (General Services Administration) and FPS (Federal Protective Service) for building services, including scheduling maintenance, cleaning, and security for our federally-owned historic building, ensuring a positive, supportive relationship.
• Ensure all processes are followed that protect historic features of the building.
• Maintain connection to and familiarity with the Museum’s mission and content to connect clients and guests to the National Building Museum wherever possible.
• Establish and maintain relationships with vendors and in-house departments.
• With the Event Coordinator, plan onsite support/logistics for events and programs, both internally and externally hosted, to include oversight of load in, setup, food and beverage, audio visual and related duties.
• Ensure exceptional management of all event logistics, addressing potential calendar conflicts that may arise and communicating with clients, vendors, leadership, GSA, security and other internal departments as needed.
• Plan for potential scenarios that could impact the integrity of the event.
• Hire, train, schedule, and supervise full time, part time, and temporary event staff to ensure readiness for each event.
• Track expenses to stay on budget and maximize net revenue to support museum operations.
• Provide excellent support to clients and guests, handling on-site issues, and ensuring all needs are met during an event.
• Ensure compliance with all local, state, and federal regulations, including safety, insurance, and licensing requirements.
• Serve as a direct contact and logistical support for internal events and program partners upon request.
• Ensure proper management of the loading dock and vendor activities.
• Conduct or coordinate damage assessments and pre- and post-event walkthroughs, billing for damages as necessary.
• Other tasks as assigned based on the needs of the Events Department.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree or higher or commensurate work experience.
• Experience with event venue management required with strong preference given to applicants from large venues (1k+ attendees).
• Comfort, ease, and appropriate decorum in managing high-touch, high-profile events, often with public figures and celebrities.
• Excellent interpersonal and customer service skills with the ability to manage conflict and conduct oneself in a professional manner in all situations.
• Skilled in Microsoft Outlook, Teams, Word, Excel, SharePoint and One Drive.
• Experience with Tripleseat or similar event management software preferred.
• Excellent organizational skills, including multitasking, time management and meticulous attention to detail.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and privacy of sensitive information.
• Demonstrated attention to detail with an ability to meet deadlines, manage projects and prioritize multiple tasks.
• Flexible, self- motivated with the ability to work both alone and in groups.
• High energy and a “roll up your sleeves” attitude.
• Commitment to the mission of the National Building Museum by working collaboratively with all departments on our three-year strategic plan.
• Must be available to work early mornings, evenings and weekends regularly in accordance with the event schedule. Monday-Friday schedule will be maintained wherever possible.
• Other duties as assigned.

Full-time employees are eligible for the following benefits:

• Medical, dental and vision insurance.
• Employer paid life and disability insurance.
• Paid vacation, sick and holiday (11) pay.
• 403 (b) plan with match.
• Museum Shop discounts.
• Free on-site parking.