Senior Events & Experiences Manager

Oakland Zoo; Oakland (CA); On-site; USD 94,000 - 108,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Dental insurance

Vision insurance

Flexible spending account

Retirement plan

Paid time off

Employee Assistance Program

Zoo Membership options

Job summary

Oakland Zoo is seeking an Events Manager to own event strategy and execution, turning mission-driven goals into guest-rich experiences. You will lead internal events, coordinate cross-functional initiatives, and manage external partnerships with SSA Catering & Events, setting parameters and driving continuous improvement.

You will oversee Glowfari, coordinate vendors, manage timelines and readiness, and ensure alignment with Zoo departments to deliver high-impact guest experiences and

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED.
• At least 10 years of relevant experience in event management, venue operations, hospitality, project management, or related field.
• Self-driven and self-starting approach to work.
• Strong oral and written communication skills, including the ability to prepare clear plans, updates, decision notes, and post-event summaries.
• Demonstrated ability to lead or coordinate multi-departmental projects, including developing project plans, tracking action items, clarifying ownership, managing dependencies, and communicating progress to stakeholders.
• Demonstrated ability to coordinate with third-party operators, vendors, contractors, or external partners while maintaining clear role boundaries and service expectations.
• Demonstrated superior customer service skills with internal and external stakeholders.
• Excellent working knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite and related project tracking, scheduling, or collaboration tools.
• Ability to work independently and within a team.
• Valid driver’s license with a clean driving record and ability to meet insurance carrier requirements.
• Able to work outside normal business hours including weekends and holidays.

Responsibilities

• Leads planning and on-property execution of internal events and assigned department-led events, partnering with sponsoring department to turn goals into event plans, timelines, staffing plans, site logistics, guest flow, signage, access requirements, and closeout.
• Maintains Zoo-approved operating parameters for SSA-managed external events, including venue use, blackout dates, restrictions, consultation needs, and escalation triggers.
• Guides SSA on Zoo operational expectations, including guest experience, public safety, animal care, admissions and parking, and custodial needs.
• Reviews SSA event processes and recurring challenges, recommends updates to parameters or procedures, and supports implementation of approved changes.
• Serves as SSA’s primary Zoo contact for questions and escalations; prepares event plans, decision notes, post-event summaries, and tracking reports.
• Requires schedule flexibility for occasional evening and weekend work onsite, including Glowfari and other high-impact programs.

Job description

Oakland Zoo is seeking an Events Manager to own event strategy and execution, turning mission-driven goals into guest-rich experiences. You will lead internal events, coordinate cross-functional initiatives, and manage external partnerships with SSA Catering & Events, setting parameters and driving continuous improvement.

You will oversee Glowfari, coordinate vendors, manage timelines and readiness, and ensure alignment with Zoo departments to deliver high-impact guest experiences and