Operations Manager - Oakland Venue Management
Job Description
Job DescriptionDescription:
Role Overview
The Operations Manager is accountable for the consistent, high-quality execution of operations across all Oakland Venue Management (OVM) venues and productions, with additional sites added as the portfolio grows. This role owns operational readiness, systems execution, vendor performance, staff leadership, and event logistics across all managed locations.
Reporting to the General Manager, the Operations Manager is responsible for translating systems and standards into daily practice. This role ensures venues are prepared, teams are properly staffed and informed, vendors are coordinated and held to scope, and operational details are executed accurately and on time. The Operations Manager proactively identifies risks, closes gaps, and resolves issues before they impact events, clients, or partners.
This is a hands-on leadership role for an operator who takes full ownership, follows through, and thrives in fast-moving, multi-site environments.
Ideal Candidate Attributes
- Strategic doer who balances planning with hands-on execution and follows work through to completion
- Systems-oriented operator who builds scalable workflows, maintains clean documentation, and protects data integrity.
- Calm, grounded leader who performs reliably in fast-paced, high-pressure environments
- Proactive problem-solver who anticipates issues and resolves them before they escalate
- Direct, transparent communicator with a strong sense of ownership and accountability
- Highly organized, detail-oriented, and dependable across multiple venues and concurrent priorities
- Demonstrated experience in venue logistics, facility operations, vendor management, and live event workflows
- Collaborative professional who works effectively within established leadership structures and executes direction without friction
- Low-ego, high-responsibility mindset with consistent follow-through and pride in execution quality
- Able to deliver meaningful operational impact and measurable relief within the first 60 days
Requirements:
Minimum Qualifications
- 5+ years of experience in operations, venue management, event operations, or multi-site operational environments
- Demonstrated experience designing, implementing, and maintaining workflow systems and operational processes
- Strong proficiency in Google Workspace and related cloud-based operational tools, with demonstrated ability to manage shared documents, trackers, schedules, and operational data accurately
- Proven ability to manage multiple venues, sites, or complex operational portfolios simultaneously
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to document and convey operational direction clearly
- Track record of staff accountability, coaching, and performance improvement through clear expectations and follow-through
- Experience collaborating with city agencies or public-sector partners (preferred)
- Strong financial acumen, including budgeting, quoting, forecasting, and cost evaluation
- Ability to work onsite with a flexible schedule, including evenings and weekends as required by event operations
- Demonstrated success operating independently in fast-paced environments requiring sound judgment and prioritization
Physical and Mental Requirements
- Ability to work onsite across multiple venues
- Ability to stand, walk, and move throughout venues for extended periods
- Ability to lift 30–40 lbs for event or operational needs
- Capacity to conduct routine walkthroughs, inspections, and maintenance checks
- Ability to work in various indoor/outdoor environments and weather conditions
- Strong emotional intelligence, calm decision-making, and resilience under pressure
- Ability to manage competing priorities and make timely, sound decisions
- Clear verbal communication in dynamic or high-stress environments
- High attention to detail while overseeing complex workflows
- Flexibility for evenings, weekends, and peak operational periods
Responsibilities
Venue & Facility Operations Leadership
- Lead day-to-day operations across all OVM-managed venues, ensuring consistent execution and site readiness
- Ensure safety, cleanliness, and full regulatory compliance at all locations
- Maintain, enforce, and continuously improve SOPs, safety protocols, and operational checklists
- Conduct regular venue walkthroughs with documented findings, action items, and follow-through
- Forecast maintenance needs and proactively schedule repairs to prevent operational disruption
- Support budgeting, coordination, and execution of facility upgrades and capital projects
- Maintain working knowledge of operating agreements and venue requirements to ensure ongoing compliance
Operational Systems & Workflow Management
- Build and optimize operational systems within Google Workspace, Event Temple, and other tools
- Maintain accurate operational data, including bookings, staffing, vendor logs, and maintenance records
- Ensure consistency and integrity of all documents, trackers, and data systems
- Lead adoption and training for the 2026 OVM SOP Library
- Implement quality assurance measures to reduce preventable issues by 50%+
Vendor, Contractor & Supplier Management
- Manage vendor relationships, contracts, COIs, renewals, and ongoing performance
- Maintain a scalable, documented vendor evaluation and selection framework
- Coordinate vendor scheduling to align with operational and event needs
- Lead cost-conscious contract negotiations and scope alignment
- Maintain a compliant preferred vendor list with qualified backup options
Staffing Operations & Team Leadership
- Supervise Venue Managers, Event Managers, and part-time staff
- Manage staffing rosters, schedules, and assignments across venues
- Ensure staff preparedness and consistent operational execution
- Provide coaching, performance management, and documentation
- Train new team members on systems, workflows, SOPs, and standards
Event Logistics & Execution Support
- Translate bookings and sales contracts into clear operational plans
- Coordinate equipment rentals, deliveries, and logistical details
- Serve as operational lead for complex or high-visibility events
- Ensure accurate run-of-show handoffs and interdepartmental communication
- Maintain high standards of readiness for exceptional client and guest experiences
Compensation & Schedule
- Salary Range: $75,000–$95,000 annually
- Benefits:
- Performance-based annual bonus
- Health, dental, and mental wellness coverage for employees and dependents
- 401(k) with employer match
- Paid vacation and sick time
- Schedule:
- Full-time, onsite position across OVM-managed venues
- Requires flexibility to support evening, weekend, and occasional late-night operations based on venue and event needs
About OVM
Since 2008, Oakland Venue Management (OVM) has produced various events and managed numerous public and private projects throughout Oakland. We are a team of professional placemakers who take pride in creating vibrant, inclusive spaces that reflect Oakland's spirit. We collaborate with organizations that share our vision of fostering a thriving, equitable, and inclusive city.
How to Apply
- Submit all materials through the OVM Careers Page:
- Applications must include:
- A professional résumé in PDF format, including dates of employment
- A brief cover letter is encouraged but not required
- Please note:
- No walk-ins or unsolicited phone calls will be accepted
- All recruitment communications will be managed via email
Compensation details: 85000-100000 Yearly Salary
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