Event Service Manager

Description

About the Role 

The Event Service Manager is responsible for leading the successful execution of The Ground's catered events, both onsite and offsite. This is a highly hands-on leadership role focused on delivering exceptional hospitality through visible, day-of event leadership. 

The Event Service Manager serves as the operational leader for the majority of events, ensuring service teams are prepared, timelines are executed, client expectations are exceeded, and every event reflects The Ground's standards of excellence. 

Working closely with the Senior Planning & Logistics Manager, who develops the operational plan, the Event Service Manager brings those plans to life by leading event setup, service, breakdown, staff execution, and real-time operational decision-making. 

This position spends the majority of its time actively executing events alongside the service team and should expect to work evenings, weekends, and holidays based on the event schedule. 

What You'll Do 

Lead Event Execution 

• Serve as the Event Service Lead for the majority of onsite and offsite catered events. 
• Execute event timelines, service standards, and operational plans from setup through breakdown. 
• Act as the primary onsite operations leader, making real-time decisions to ensure smooth event execution. 
• Serve as the primary onsite client contact during events, resolving issues with professionalism and urgency. 
• Direct event setup, service, strike, load-out, and load-in activities. 
• Maintain detailed event logs and communicate post-event feedback with the planning team. 

Lead and Develop the Event Service Team 

• Hire, train, coach, schedule, and supervise Event Leads, Servers, Bartenders, Event Support, and Porters. 
• Foster a culture of hospitality, accountability, teamwork, and professionalism. 
• Provide ongoing coaching and performance feedback. 
• Ensure staffing assignments align with event needs and service standards. 

Ensure Event Readiness 

• Oversee event pack-outs, equipment staging, transportation readiness, and event inventories. 
• Verify that all event equipment, wares, linens, beverages, rentals, and supplies are complete and event-ready. 
• Maintain organization and inventory of event equipment, service wares, linens, and storage areas. 
• Partner with the Senior Planning & Logistics Manager to ensure all event requirements have been fulfilled prior to execution. 

Oversee Facilities & Equipment 

• Maintain Stillwater Events Center and satellite storage locations in a clean, organized, and event-ready condition. 
• Coordinate routine maintenance of event equipment, vehicles, linens, and service items. 
• Assist in developing and improving operational procedures, service standards, and event execution processes. 
• Coordinate facility vendors and service providers, including cleaning, landscaping, window washing, waste management, and other routine building services, ensuring the venue remains operational and guest-ready. 

Collaborate Across Teams 

• Partner closely with Catering Sales, Planning & Logistics, Culinary, Beverage, and Hospitality Operations to ensure seamless execution. 
• Provide operational feedback following events to improve future planning and service. 
• Support special projects and additional responsibilities as assigned. 
• Manage event billing and accounts receivable processes, including invoicing, deposit tracking, payment collection, and event cash flow in partnership with the Sales and Finance teams. 

What You Bring 

• 3-5 years of experience leading catering, banquet, or hospitality event service operations. 
• Demonstrated experience leading high-volume event service teams. 
• Strong ability to lead calmly and confidently in fast-paced environments. 
• Passion for hospitality and creating exceptional guest experiences. 
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills. 
• Highly organized with strong attention to detail. 
• Experience with event management software such as TripleSeat preferred. 
• Familiarity with POS systems such as Toast preferred. 
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office. 
• Valid driver's license and clean driving record. 
• Reliable personal transportation. 
• OLCC Permit and Food Handler Card (or ability to obtain upon hire); ServSafe certification preferred. 

Physical Requirements 

• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods. 
• Ability to regularly lift, push, pull, and carry up to 35 pounds and occasionally up to 50 pounds. 
• Ability to work indoors and outdoors in varying weather conditions. 
• Ability to work evenings, weekends, and holidays based on event schedules. 

Benefits 

• Health, dental, vision, and life insurance 
• 401(k) 
• Paid Time Off 
• 20% employee discount at Ground entities 

Compensation: $60,000-70,000/year DOE (Salaried, Full-Time) 

About The Ground  

The Ground is a hospitality business based in beautiful Willamette Valley that exists to realize human potential in harmony with the planet. It is an evolving collection of experiences and destinations rooted in conscious, loving hospitality in service to all with a philosophy of belonging that comes to life through regenerative agriculture, food, accommodations, revitalizing wellness experiences, and engaging programs & events.? 

The Ground is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. If you’re interested in this role, but your experience doesn’t align perfectly with every qualification in the job description, we still encourage you to apply. You may just be the right candidate for this or other roles at The Ground.