EVENT Operations Manager, Cityspace, WBUR Business Partnerships

Event Operations Manager, CitySpace, WBUR Business Partnerships

Event Operations Manager — CitySpace (WBUR)

Location: CitySpace, 890 Commonwealth Avenue, Boston, MA

Reports to: Marketing & Campaign Manager

Employment type: Full-time (hybrid in the office with flexible schedule to support early morning, evening and weekend events on-site at CitySpace)

WBUR, Boston's NPR, operates CitySpace, a dedicated event venue and creative hub for live programming, corporate and nonprofit events, and community gatherings. The Event Operations Manager is responsible for planning, coordinating, and executing all operational aspects of rental client events at CitySpace. Focused solely on logistics and production rather than sales, this role delivers safe, smoothly run, high-production events for external rental clients across corporate, social, and nonprofit sectors. The ideal candidate brings a proven track record executing high-value events, excellent project management and technical coordination skills, a client-first mindset, strong attention to detail, physical stamina, and the ability to make quick decisions under pressure. This position works closely with the Venue Sales Manager and cross-functional event teams in marketing and audio/visual. This role reports to the Marketing & Campaign Manager. This role is based in Boston, MA. Work hours are flexible to accommodate early and late events.

Key responsibilities:

• Serve as primary on-site lead for operational delivery of rental client events at CitySpace, ensuring all specifications, timelines, and client expectations are met.
• Develop and maintain event floor plans, A/V cue sheets, load-in/load-out schedules, and client facing planning documents.
• Coordinate with clients, internal teams (Technical Operations, Marketing, Facilities, Security) and external vendors to confirm deliverables, timelines, and logistics.
• Enforce CitySpace policies and venue guidelines for catering, entertainment, decorations, signage, sponsor activations, alcohol service, and load-in/load-out procedures.
• Oversee vendor logistics including catering orders, rental orders, delivery windows, storage needs, access/egress, and vendor credentials.
• Assist in developing and updating venue FAQ's, standard operating procedures (SOPs), safety protocols, lists of preferred vendors, and training materials.
• Act as a client-facing operations lead, providing consultative guidance on logistics while maintaining a client-first approach to execution.
• Oversee event setup and breakdown as required, including moving and arranging chairs/tables, placing linens, and managing vendor load-in/out.
• Ensure kitchen, concessions, and common areas are tidy and compliant with venue standards after events.
• Foster an environment of openness, teamwork, and cross-departmental collaboration.

Required qualifications:

• 3-5 years executing conferences, corporate/social events, sponsorship activations, or venue operations with high-profile clients.
• Proven track record managing high-production event logistics.
• Strong project management, organization, and time-management skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication.
• Collaborative, client-first mindset with ability to problem-solve under pressure.
• Ability to build strong relationships both internally across the organization, as well as externally with clients and third-party vendors & events teams.
• Detail-oriented with solid documentation and record-keeping habits.
• Availability for evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed.
• Ability to lift 25+ lbs, navigate stairs, and stand for extended periods.

Preferred qualifications:

• Familiarity with venue management or CRM software.
• Previous experience coordinating technical production details (lighting, audio/visual) and working closely with technical teams.
• Certification in event management, hospitality, or safety (e.g., ServSafe, Event Safety Alliance training) is a plus.
• Experience managing vendor contracts, permits, and insurance requirements.

We are an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, natural or protective hairstyle, religion, sex, age, national origin, physical or mental disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, military service, pregnancy or pregnancy-related condition, or because of marital, parental, or veteran status. We are a VEVRAA Federal Contractor.