Event & Guest Experience Manager - VPAC

International Association of Venue Managers; Houston, Northern (TX, KY); On-site; USD 76,000 - 88,000; Full time

Job summary

The International Association of Venue Managers seeks an Event & Guest Experience Manager for VPAC in Houston, TX. Lead front-of-house operations, coordinate event readiness, supervise guest services staff, and partner with operations, ticketing, concessions, and event coordination teams to execute district and external events.

This role demands strong leadership, exceptional customer service, and the ability to manage multiple events.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree preferred (Business, Hospitality, Event Management, or related field)
• Equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered

Responsibilities

• Oversee and coordinate front-of-house operations for VPAC events
• Lead staff, ensure guest services standards, and liaison with operations, ticketing, concessions, and event teams
• Provide leadership in event planning, scheduling, and staffing
• Ensure accessibility and safety, and manage patron flow during events
• Act as MOD during events and ensure post-event breakdown and reporting

Skills

Leadership

Customer service

Organizational skills

Event operations

Front-of-house

BEO reading

MS Office

Momentus

Communication

Problem solving

Education

Bachelor's degree

Experience considered

Tools

Momentus

MS Office

Job description

Provide leadership and oversight of front-of-house operations for the Visual & Performing Arts Center (VPAC). This position is responsible for coordinating event readiness, supervising guest services staff, and ensuring a high level of customer service for all events. Serves as a key liaison between operations, ticketing, concessions, and event coordination teams to ensure seamless execution of district and external events.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Education/Certification:
• Bachelor’s degree preferred (Business, Hospitality, Event Management, or related field)
• Equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered

Special Knowledge/Skills

• Strong leadership, customer service, and organizational skills
• Ability to manage multiple events and priorities simultaneously
• Knowledge of event operations, front-of-house procedures, and venue management
• Ability to read event diagrams, BEOs, and room layouts
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and event management software required; experience with
• Momentus Event Software (formerly Ungerboeck) strongly preferred
• Strong communication and problem-solving skills

Experience

• Minimum of two (2) years of experience in event operations, guest services, or hospitality
• Experience in theaters, arenas, performing arts centers, or similar venues preferred

TERMS OF EMPLOYMENT

• 244 days
• Work schedule includes nights, weekends, holidays, and early mornings as required by events.

SALARY

• BA 5 - $76,329
• Salary Range (based on experience) as set by the Board of Trustees.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Event Coordination & Operations
• Coordinate front-of-house operations for multiple VPAC events
• Review event details, staffing plans, and operational needs prior to events
• Conduct event walkthroughs to ensure accuracy of setup, signage, and readiness
• Assist with scheduling and communication of event details to departments
• Ensure all staffing, equipment, and service needs are met prior to event start

Front of House Leadership

• Oversee and direct ushers, ticketing staff, and front-of-house support personnel
• Serve as lead on-site contact for guest services during events
• Ensure adherence to customer service standards and district policies
• Training, mentoring, and evaluating front-of-house staff

Guest Services & Client Relations

• Provide high-quality customer service to patrons, clients, district staff, and promoters
• Serve as liaison between clients, internal departments, and event staff
• Resolve guest concerns, complaints, and service issues in a professional manner before, during, or after events.
• Maintain a welcoming, safe, and accessible environment for all patrons

Event Planning Support

• Participate in production meetings and planning sessions
• Assist with event logistics, room layouts, and operational planning
• Support coordination of staffing needs and communication of event timelines
• Collaborate with event coordinators and management on execution strategies

Ticketing, Accessibility & Venue Coordination

• Work with box office staff to support ticketing operations and ADA accommodations
• Ensure accessible seating and services are properly coordinated
• Support will-call, entry operations, and patron flow as needed

Event Day Oversight (MOD Responsibilities)

• Serve as Manager on Duty (MOD) during events as assigned
• Monitor event operations and adjust staffing or workflow as neededEnsure compliance with safety, security, and emergency procedures
• Maintain oversight from pre-event setup through post-event breakdown

ADDITIONAL DUTIES

• Assist in developing and maintaining front-of-house procedures and standards
• Support revenue-generating activities by enhancing guest experience and repeat business
• Assist with reporting, billing coordination, or administrative tasks as needed
• Perform other duties as assigned

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Direct supervision of part-time front-of-house staff (ushers, ticketing, guest services)
• Provide leadership, training, and evaluation support

MENTAL DEMANDS/PHYSICAL DEMANDS/ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS

• Tools/Equipment Used: Standard office equipment, radios, ticket scanners, scheduling/event software
• Posture: Standing and walking for extended periods; occasional sitting
• Motion: Frequent walking, bending, reaching, and lifting
• Lifting: Ability to lift up to 50 pounds
• Environment: Indoor and outdoor event settings; high-volume crowd environments
• Mental Demands: Work with frequent interruptions; maintain emotional control under stress; manage multiple priorities

NOTICE TO TRS RETIREES

• Work hour restrictions may apply. Contact TRS at 1-800-223-8778 for guidance.

Job ID 59337 Job Title Event & Guest Experience Manager - VPAC Start Date 09/01/2026 Salary Range $76329.00 - no maximum salary specified Job Location Houston TX United States

Contact Information

Name & Title Goodwin, Jermaine - Facilities Director MHAB, Visual and Performing Arts Ce Email [e-mail] Best Method of Contact EMAIL