A NEW BREED OF ENTERTAINMENT

With almost 150 years of proud horseracing history, Woodbine Entertainment Group is the founding pioneer and largest operator of professional horseracing in Canada.

Building on our rich past, we are surging ahead to the future with an energized, new vision. Today we deliver the most thrilling and highest quality racing, dining and entertainment experiences to our visitors. In doing so, we remain a world-leader in horse-racing — and also among the most exciting and diverse entertainment facilities on the globe.

This position is a 9 month contract

Job Summary

As the Manager, Event Operations this role is accountable for development, management and oversight of the entire inbound sales, existing client outreach and booking cycle for all food and beverage group events, private dining, membership relations and private box rentals at all Woodbine locations including WEG operated GCE Event Venues. This position will manage and communicate the operational requirements and expectations for all marquee events. This position also acts as the primary contact and coordinator for all 3rd party caterers and GCE Sales Team. They will need to develop and implement innovative programs, processes, and procedures to maximize operating costs and increase productivity. The Manager, Event Operations will need to be a natural leader with strong relationship skills to bring cross-departmental teams together to support the execution of events.

Key Accountabilities

• High degree of planning is required in this role including the development, coordination and operational implementation of internal and external onsite events.

• Primary contact for all incoming group events and private dining inquiries; responsible for overall coordination of events (menus, venue set up, A/V, experiences)

• Manages all contracts and payment coordination for group events through existing platforms

• Manages operation requirements for marquee events including ticket sales, dining room and experiences management event day management: ensure on the day logistics are running smoothly (catering, venue, audio visual, racing experiences, etc)

• Provides detailed communication to all internal stakeholders for each event including immediate changes to any and all detail

• Manage the relationship between GCE Catering and WEG, including any 3rd Party providers.

• Primary contact for all onsite events including contract negotiations and cross departmental communication.

• Facilitate regularly scheduled BEO meetings to ensure cross-departmental participation for supporting the success of all events

• Provides accurate reporting of statistical information on group sales revenue and manages group sales profit / loss statements.

• Develop and maintain relations with Woodbine Club members and horse people.

• Managing all aspects of group events and private dining affairs by:

  • Managing and organizing facility tours

  • Preparing event proposals and third-party contracts

  • Planning and coordinating events by consulting with clients on menu development, activity and entertainment planning.

• Ensure all bookings are followed up for appreciation, feedback, and re-booking agenda/opportunities.

• Identify and investigate guest concerns with internal departments when incidents are reported.

• Propose responsible solutions exceeding guest expectations with a low cost / no cost.

• Primary contact for all members and private box relations (guest feedback and requests

• Primary liaison with Marketing Events for Group Events and Membership strategy, programming, and implementation

• Leads cross-departmental meetings to ensure all event details are reviewed with required stakeholders

• Ensures all BEO details are accurate and delivered to all departments and received in a timely manner

• Drive group sales to ensure financial targets are met. Analyze and report financial information to assess revenue generation, administrative information for event evaluation and development, and consumer information for clientele identification and evaluation

Qualifications

• Strong working knowledge of Banquet/Catering operations

• Advanced decision and problem solving skills;

• Strong working knowledge of PC networks (Microsoft Office Programs)

• Working knowledge in Reservations and Catering systems an asset

• Strong relationship management skills.

• Post Secondary School Diploma

• 3 years sales position in hospitality/entertainment industry

• Strong ability to think outside the box and make recommendations which best fit the operation and guests' desired outcomes.

• Advanced interpersonal skills necessary to interact effectively and influence cooperation and contribution from internal departments.

• Advanced oral and written communication skills necessary to provide clarity with guests and staff, ensuring professionalism when representing Woodbine Entertainment.

Working Conditions

• Will have exposure to all areas of the facility

• Regular interruptions, multiple demands and time pressure.

• Flexible schedule to include evening, weekends and holidays when required.

• Requirement to travel to various WEG locations

Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging

Be Yourself.

We believe differences should be valued and celebrated. By building diverse and inclusive teams, we strive to provide a more authentic and empowering work experience that unlocks the potential of our people. Regardless of race, religion, colour, national origin, sex, gender, expression, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status, we believe everyone has the right to express their ideas, ambitions, and pursue their goals with confidence and integrity. Diversity breeds innovation. We want people to think differently. Our commitment is to build a culture that welcomes everyone and leverages their unique perspectives to be a great entertainment company that shares the thrill of horseracing experiences with the world.