Manager, Entertainment – Universal Kids Resort

Job Summary

Responsible for the development, planning, and execution of all Entertainment offerings at Universal Kids Resort. Manages the Entertainment department including operations, technical, productions, and contracted hourly performers who support stage shows across the lands. Oversees leadership team and hourly Team Members ensuring show quality, performance standards, Guest satisfaction (GSAT), Team Member satisfaction (TSAT), safety, labor optimization, and the planning and execution of special/seasonal events.

Serves as the overall Creative lead for Entertainment shows, third-party services, Performers, character meet-n-greets, special events, and seasonal overlays. Collaborates across Operations leadership to determine strategies and operational efficiencies to execute special/seasonal events to ensure the successful completion of all tasks and assignments through all aspects of design and production from original concept through final installation.

• Responsible for ensuring the successful operation and technical performance of all entertainment venues/shows at Universal Kids Resort, ensuring show quality, performance standards, and safety of Team Members. Responsible for effectively communicating necessary information that pertains to the entertainment operation across UKR departments. Oversees daily operation, hourly performers safety and satisfaction, and the successful technical entertainment operation including staging, lighting, audio, show control and support of special events throughout the resort.
• Develops and implements the strategic plan for the operation, maintenance, enhancement, and improvement of all entertainment offerings including facilities, technical elements/aspects and talent across Universal Kids Resort. Leads Entertainment Production for UKR’s special events and partners across UKR leadership to ensure the successful operational planning and execution. Produces entertainment elements for multiple events while tracking, managing, and overseeing program lifecycle for effective production schedules and creative intent.
• Responsible for hiring decisions, training, coaching, and development of leadership team. Directly oversees the Entertainment Producers and Assistant Managers while leading, coaching and mentoring hourly Team Members by providing feedback on performance. Ensures management team is meeting all objectives and accountabilities.
• Analyzes daily Finance flash reports, venue operational status, GSAT and Guest Comment reports to stay in tune with the Guest experience and establishes strategic plans based on observed trends. Manages daily/weekly labor while monitoring and adjusting labor hours and budgets according to attendance levels, operating needs, and other variables, mitigating overtime as necessary. Partners with Operations leadership to prioritize discretionary and capital planning.
• Drives and executes plans for Entertainment team that directly affect TSAT, GSAT, and safety standards while utilizing existing tools to measure and monitor performance against targets. Develops appropriate action plans to achieve or exceed targets.
• Manages the Auditions and Casting efforts in conjunction with Talent Acquisition team for both Team Members and contracted performers. Oversees the contracting processes including procedures, staffing, training locations, vendor set up, communication, operational flow, and safety compliance. Provides oversight of rehearsal periods and ensuring alignment with all Universal standards and procedures.
• Understand and actively participate in Environmental, Health & Safety responsibilities by following established UDX policy, procedures, training, and team member involvement activities.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

• Supervises an Exempt team

• Carries out supervisory responsibilities in accordance with the organization’s policies and applicable laws.

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skills, and/or abilities (KSAs) required.

• Experience overseeing third-party vendors is preferred.
• Strong communication and organizational skills.
• Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
• Consistent attendance is a job requirement.

• Bachelor’s Degree in TV/Film Production, Theatre, Entertainment, or related field is required.

• 5 years of experience in professional entertainment, theater management or theme parks with 3 years of supervisory experience required; or equivalent combination of education and experience.

Your talent, skills and experience will be rewarded with a competitive compensation package.

Universal Parks & Resorts. Universal is an equal opportunity employer. EOE.