Director of Event Operations

Capella Sydney; Sydney; On-site; AUD 180,000 - 260,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

LinkedIn training courses

Complimentary meals during shifts

Hotel discounts & group bookings

Employee assistance programme (EAP)

Job summary

Capella Sydney seeks a Director of Event Operations to lead the events team at its landmark Sydney property. You will shape strategies, budgets, and operational plans, delivering exceptional guest experiences across meetings, conferences and special events.

You will mentor staff, drive profitability, and collaborate with Sales, Culinary, Rooms, and other departments to ensure flawless execution in a high-end, 24/7 environment.

Qualifications

• Degree or Diploma in Hospitality Management, Event Management, Business Management, or a related field.
• Minimum 5 years' leadership experience in luxury hotel events, conference services, banqueting, or hospitality operations, including senior management responsibility.
• Proven track record of leading large teams and managing complex event operations in luxury hospitality.

Responsibilities

• Provide strategic leadership and direction for all Events Operations, ensuring exceptional guest experiences and flawless event delivery across the hotel.
• Develop and implement departmental goals, budgets, business plans, and operational strategies aligned with the hotel's objectives.
• Lead, mentor, and inspire the Events Operations team to maintain a high-performance culture focused on excellence and continuous improvement.
• Oversee the execution of meetings, conferences, social events, and functions, ensuring service delivery exceeds expectations and brand standards.
• Collaborate with Sales, Catering, Culinary, Rooms and other departments to ensure seamless event planning and execution.
• Drive financial performance by managing labour costs, departmental expenses, productivity, and revenue opportunities.

Skills

Strategic leadership

Events operations

Budget management

Team development

Stakeholder management

Hospitality knowledge

Education

Hospitality/Event Management degree

Tools

Event management software

Job description

Capella Hotels and Resorts embodies excellence in the craft of hospitality. Our constellation spans Asia Pacific, with future openings in the Middle East and Europe. Each property is a custodian of heritage, reflecting meticulous restoration and unseen artistry to offer experiences that illuminate travel. Named Best Hotel Brand by Travel + Leisure for four consecutive years, Capella combines the highest levels of craftsmanship with personalised service to create bespoke luxury. Auriga Spa, our signature wellness sanctuary inspired by lunar cycles, brings holistic wellbeing to each destination.

Join one of the world’s leading hotels.

Capella Sydney occupies one of the city’s most significant heritage buildings, the former Department of Education in the heart of Sydney’s Sandstone Precinct. Opened in March 2023 as the first Capella hotel in Australia, the 192-room property brings together the character of its historic sandstone architecture with contemporary design, thoughtful hospitality and a strong connection to the city.

In 2026, Capella Sydney was named Best Hotel in Oceania and No. 16 in The 50 Best Hotels, recognising its place among the world’s leading hotels.

Behind this recognition is a team of passionate people who take pride in their craft and the experiences they create. At Capella Sydney, you will have the opportunity to work alongside talented hospitality professionals, contribute your own ideas and develop your skills in an environment where individuality, collaboration and genuine care are valued.

Position Summary

We are now seeking a passionate and experienced Director of Event Operations to help us lead our dynamic team in delivering unforgettable moments in our unique and intimate event spaces.

The Role

Provide strategic leadership and direction for all Events Operations, ensuring exceptional guest experiences and flawless event delivery across the hotel.

Develop and implement departmental goals, budgets, business plans, and operational strategies aligned with the hotel's overall objectives.

Lead, mentor, and inspire the Events Operations team, fostering a high-performance culture focused on excellence, innovation, and continuous improvement.

Oversee the execution of all meetings, conferences, social events, and special functions, ensuring service delivery consistently exceeds guest expectations and brand standards.

Collaborate closely with Sales, Catering, Culinary, Rooms, and other operational departments to ensure seamless event planning and execution.

Drive financial performance by managing labour costs, departmental expenses, productivity, and revenue opportunities while maintaining service excellence.

Build and maintain strong relationships with clients, event organisers, partners, and key stakeholders to maximise guest satisfaction and repeat business.

Monitor guest feedback, market trends, and competitor activity, implementing strategies to enhance the hotel's event offering and reputation.

Ensure compliance with all company policies, workplace health and safety requirements, licensing regulations, and operational standards.

Lead talent development initiatives including recruitment, succession planning, performance management, coaching, and training to build a strong leadership pipeline.

Talent Profile

Degree or Diploma in Hospitality Management, Event Management, Business Management, or a related field.

Minimum 5 years' leadership experience in luxury hotel events, conference services, banqueting, or hospitality operations, including senior management responsibility.

Proven track record of successfully leading large teams and managing complex event operations within a luxury hospitality environment.

Strong commercial acumen with experience managing budgets, forecasting, cost control, and driving operational profitability.

Exceptional leadership, stakeholder management, and people development skills.

Strong knowledge of event operations, food and beverage service, banquet logistics, and luxury guest service standards.

Excellent communication, negotiation, and relationship-building skills.

Experience working with event management and hotel systems is highly regarded.

Demonstrated ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced, high-volume environment.

Flexibility to support a 24/7 operation, including weekends and public holidays when business needs require.

Valid working rights in Australia.

What you will receive with Capella Sydney

Join a vibrant and nurturing workplace.

Work in elegantly designed areas while enjoying amenities in a historic building.

Benefit from online LinkedIn training courses aimed at your personal and professional growth.

Savour complimentary meals during your shifts.

Enjoy discounts for hotels and group bookings.

An employee assistance programme (EAP) offering confidential counselling and support.

Celebrate your birthday with special leave.

Embrace opportunities for growth and advancement within the organisation.

* We appreciate your understanding that we will only be able to contact shortlisted candidates.