Job Overview
Shady Brook Farm is seeking an organized, customer-focused, and hands-on Event and Hospitality Manager to oversee the planning, coordination, staffing, and execution of events at our venue. This role is responsible for ensuring each event runs smoothly from pre-event preparation through post-event follow-up, while supporting both clients and the internal events team.
The ideal candidate has experience in event sales, hospitality, venue operations, or event management, along with strong communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills. This position requires flexibility, attention to detail, and the ability to manage multiple events and priorities in a fast-paced, seasonal environment.
Responsibilities
Event Operations & Logistics
- Manage event logistics, setup plans, staffing needs, and vendor coordination based on Banquet Event Orders.
- Ensure all event details are finalized, accurate, and clearly communicated before each event.
- Maintain up-to-date event records, including caterers, beverage packages, planners, timelines, layouts, and special requirements.
- Conduct pre-event and post-event walk-throughs to identify changes, address challenges, and improve future events.
- Be present and available during events to support staff, clients, vendors, and guests as needed.
- Serve as Venue Coordinator for select events.
Team Leadership & Staffing
- Supervise the Event Operations team to ensure seamless execution from booking through event completion.
- Schedule and manage event staff, including day-of staff, beverage staff, and support staff.
- Lead, motivate, and support the events team while maintaining high standards for service and professionalism.
- Ensure exceptional customer service and operational excellence for every guest and client.
Client & Sales Support
- Maintain prompt, professional, and courteous communication with clients.
- Accommodate client requests while upholding company policies, procedures, and operational boundaries.
- Assist the sales team with client communication, venue tours, and event-related follow-up as needed.
- Support sales and event performance by helping create a positive client experience from inquiry through event completion.
Qualifications
Education & Experience
- Bachelor’s degree preferred, but not required.
- Minimum of 2 years of experience in event sales, marketing, event management, hospitality, or a related field.
- Winery, hospitality, catering, or venue experience preferred.
- Minimum of 1 year of management or team leadership experience.
- RAMP Certification preferred, or willingness to obtain within 90 days of hire.
- Valid driver’s license required.
Skills
- Strong understanding of event sales funnels, lead conversion, and client relationship management.
- Excellent communication, negotiation, and customer service skills.
- Ability to manage multiple projects, deadlines, and event details at once.
- Experience using CRM or event management software preferred; TripleSeat experience is a plus.
- Strong problem-solving skills with the ability to identify issues and take appropriate action.
- Professional, dependable, and comfortable working in a fast-paced, guest-facing environment.
Schedule & Work Environment
- Part-time position with variable hours based on business needs.
- Hours may increase during peak seasons, especially May–June and September–October.
- During peak season, weekly hours may range from 45–55 hours.
- Evening, weekend, and some holiday availability required.
- In-person position.
Physical Requirements
- Ability to lift up to 45 lbs.
- Ability to stand and walk for long periods of time.
- Ability to climb stairs, move equipment, and assist with event setup and breakdown as needed.
Compensation & Benefits
- Starting pay: $22 per hour
Benefits may be available to employees who meet eligibility requirements based on average hours worked and length of service, in accordance with company policy.
Eligible benefits may include:
- Paid time off and paid holidays
- Vacation time based on tenure
- 401(k) with company match
- Health insurance contribution for eligible employees
- Employee discounts
Benefit eligibility and accrual rates are determined by hours worked and length of service and are subject to company policy.
Pay: From $22.00 per hour
Benefits:
- 401(k) matching
- Employee discount
- Flexible schedule
Work Location: In person