VP of Venue Operations & Strategic Growth

houstonfirst; Houston (TX); On-site; USD 150,000 - 230,000; Full time

Job summary

Houston First in Houston, TX, seeks a visionary VP, Assistant General Manager to oversee the George R. Brown Convention Center and Avenida Plaza.

You will shape operational excellence, drive growth, and deliver exceptional customer experiences across events and services. You will lead daily operations, supervise senior staff, manage budgets, and coordinate with Sales, Marketing, and Event Services to attract major conventions and meetings.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in public assembly facility management, hospitality management, business administration, or related field.
• 12+ years in senior management within convention centers, theatrical facilities, or similar venues, including budgets and maintenance experience.
• Experience managing cross-functional projects and collaborating with internal/external stakeholders to execute strategic initiatives.

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily operations of the GRB Convention Center and Avenida Plaza.
• Manage Convention Services, Guest Services, Operations, and contractor services.
• Develop processes for modernization and growth over the next 10 years.
• Prepare and monitor annual operating and capital budgets; ensure fiscal discipline.
• Oversee contract management and policy development to improve efficiency.
• Collaborate with Sales, Marketing, and Event Services to drive venue sales.
• Lead and train management and staff; provide performance feedback.
• Prepare management reports, manuals, and annual plans; ensure safety compliance.
• Lead special projects and stay updated on industry trends such as sustainability.

Skills

Executive leadership

Operations management

Budget management

Strategic planning

Customer & partner relations

Communication skills

Problem solving

Team leadership

Cross-functional collaboration

Education

Bachelor's degree in public assembly facility mgmt / hospitality / business

12+ years senior management in convention centers or similar venues

Experience leading cross-functional projects

Tools

Microsoft Word

Microsoft Excel

Job description

Houston First in Houston, TX, seeks a visionary VP, Assistant General Manager to oversee the George R. Brown Convention Center and Avenida Plaza.

You will shape operational excellence, drive growth, and deliver exceptional customer experiences across events and services. You will lead daily operations, supervise senior staff, manage budgets, and coordinate with Sales, Marketing, and Event Services to attract major conventions and meetings.