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 teams—including catering, facilities, AV, and security—to ensure every detail of the client’s vision is communicated and delivered seamlessly.
• Professional Site Tours: Lead high-impact venue tours for prospective clients, expertly showcasing our 60,000 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 client’s budget and the Skirball’s 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 Skirball’s standards.

Qualifications

• Experience: 3–5 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

• Bachelor’s 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.