Director of Operations | Full-Time | South Okanagan Events Centre

Oak View Group

Oak View Group is the global leader in venue development, management, and premium hospitality services for the live event industry. Offering an unmatched, 360-degree solution set for a collection of world-class owned venues and a client roster that includes the most influential, highest attended arenas, convention centers, music festivals, performing arts centers, and cultural institutions on the planet.

Position Summary

In consultation with the General Manager, the Director of Operations manages, supervises, and coordinates the day-to-day operations of the complex including maintenance, set-up/changeovers, custodial/housekeeping, landscaping/grounds keeping, equipment safety, and capital projects. This role provides administrative planning, direction, and policies to operating managers and supervisors, ensuring high-quality service to facilitate event booking and rebooking. The Director of Operations also oversees departmental budgets to maintain cost efficiency and supports the General Manager with staff management.

This position offers an annual salary of $85,000-$120,000 CAD and is bonus eligible.

Benefits include: Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance; 401(k) Savings Plan with matching; Paid Time Off (vacation, sick days, holidays).

This position remains open until July 18, 2025.

About the Venue

The South Okanagan Events Centre is a multi-building complex in Penticton, BC, comprising a Convention Centre, Memorial Arena, Okanagan Hockey School, and the South Okanagan Events Centre.

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily operations and maintenance of the facility and systems (HVAC, sound, electrical, plumbing, fire safety, communications, scoreboard systems, pest control, custodial services).
• Develop and manage operational and capital budgets; forecast staffing, equipment, and supplies needs; monitor expenditures; adjust as needed.
• Coordinate event information and logistics with relevant departments and staff.
• Supervise event setup and teardown (ice, floors, stages, chairs, signage, banquet setups).
• Act as liaison with city and provincial authorities regarding permits, inspections, licenses, and warranties.
• Recruit, train, motivate, and evaluate staff; oversee staff development and disciplinary procedures.
• Ensure health and safety compliance across operations.
• Prepare and update management reports and manuals (operations manual, maintenance plans, safety regulations).
• Continuously improve operations, streamline processes, and enhance customer service.
• Conduct organizational and operational studies; recommend policy or procedural modifications.
• Maintain effective relationships with staff, stakeholders, and users.
• Supervise contractors, engineers, and architects on building projects.
• Manage hazardous materials and ensure compliance with regulations.
• Oversee the Micromain program for facility management and reporting.
• Maintain cost records and prepare estimates for work.
• Responsible for ice surface installation and maintenance.
• Communicate effectively in English, both verbally and in writing.
• Work flexibly, including early mornings, evenings, weekends, holidays, and extended days.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the General Manager.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution.
• Minimum 5 years’ experience in facility operations management.
• Proven knowledge of physical plant management, supervision, and team leadership.
• Availability to work event nights, weekends, and holidays.
• Experience in budget preparation and control.
• Knowledge of safety standards, BC Safety Authority, CSA regulations, and related codes.
• Basic understanding of boilers, chillers, refrigeration, and ice-making systems.
• Knowledge of fire alarm and fire protection systems, safety regulations.
• Possession or ability to obtain a 5th Class Refrigeration Certificate or Refrigeration Operator Certificate.
• Familiarity with event production and theatre technology.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and AutoCAD.
• Strong supervisory, communication, and customer service skills.
• Fluent in English, with excellent written and oral communication.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment.

Our Commitment

At OVG, we value diversity and inclusivity, believing they foster innovation and excellence. We are dedicated to creating environments that reflect and celebrate the communities we serve, and we encourage applications from all backgrounds.