Private Events Manager

Job Summary

The Skirball Cultural Center seeks a detail-oriented and service-driven Private Events Manager to manage a high volume of incoming event business. This role focuses on converting warm inbound leads and delivering exceptional event management for our private clients. You will be responsible for managing 40 events per year serving as the primary bridge between the initial inquiry and the final on-site experience. This is a perfect role for a high-performing professional who excels at high-touch relationship management and operational precision.

Reports To: Director of Private Event Sales
Compensation: $26.00 - 30.00 per hour
Status: Full-time; Non-Exempt
Schedule: The hospitality department functions six (6) days a week; scheduled days and times vary based on need. Weekend and evening flexibility is required.

Key Responsibilities

• Inbound Sales & Conversion: Manage and convert a high volume of incoming leads and RFPs. Focus on maximizing revenue through strategic upselling of catering and venue packages to meeting-ready clients.
• Full Lifecycle Management: Independently lead the end-to-end planning for 40 private events annually. Serve as the primary point of contact from the moment a contract is signed through the successful execution of the event.
• Operational Excellence: Partner closely with internal teamsincluding catering facilities AV and securityto ensure every detail of the clients vision is communicated and delivered seamlessly.
• Professional Site Tours: Lead high-impact venue tours for prospective clients expertly showcasing our 60000 sq. ft. of event space and tailoring presentations to meet specific client objectives.
• Sophisticated Proposals: Create detailed event proposals customized menus and pricing scenarios that align with both the clients budget and the Skirballs revenue goals.
• CRM Mastery: Maintain 100% data integrity within the Momentus/Ungerboeck system ensuring all contracts floor plans and client communications are documented with precision.
• Peak Season Commitment: As a non-exempt role this position requires a commitment to overtime during peak event seasons (Spring/Fall) to ensure all high-volume private events are executed to the Skirballs standards.

Qualifications

• Experience: 35 years of proven success in hospitality or event sales/coordination specifically within a high-volume venue or hotel environment.
• Technical Proficiency: Advanced skills in Momentus/Ungerboeck (highly preferred) and Social Tables. Must be proficient in Microsoft Office and Google Suite.
• Relationship Management: Exceptional ability to build rapport quickly and influence decision-makers through professional polished communication.
• Logistics & Speed: Strong ability to manage multiple moving parts simultaneously; must be highly organized with a data entry speed of at least 60 WPM.
• Requirements: Flexibility to work a varied schedule including evenings and weekends based on the event calendar.

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelors degree in Hospitality Management Marketing or a related field.
• Strong understanding of catering operations and banquet service standards.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods during site tours and event days.
• Ability to lift or move objects up to 25 lbs as needed for event setup support.