Operations Manager

Operations Manager - Fireside

Location: Rock Stream, New York
Position: Full-time, year-round
Compensation: based on experience, base salary, plus commissions and performance incentives

Fireside is building one of the Finger Lakes region’s most distinctive entertainment and event destinations. Located in Rock Stream, NY, near Watkins Glen, our growing operation includes music festivals, weddings, private facility rentals, camping and community events.

We are looking for an organized, energetic and hands-on Operations Manager who can help turn ambitious ideas into well-run, memorable events.

The Operations Manager will oversee the planning and execution of Fireside events and the day-to-day operation of the property as an event venue.

This person will work directly with Fireside ownership, clients, sponsors, vendors, contractors and seasonal employees. The ideal candidate is equally comfortable preparing an event plan, meeting with a wedding couple, coordinating vendors, managing a property rental and solving unexpected problems during a live event.

This is not strictly a desk position. It requires strong planning and administrative skills, combined with a willingness to be visible and actively involved on the property.

• Assist with the planning and execution of Fireside Festival and other concerts, festivals and entertainment events.
• Develop event timelines, operating plans, staffing assignments and setup schedules.
• Coordinate entertainers, production companies, vendors, sponsors, security, emergency services and contractors.
• Oversee event setup, operations, breakdown and post-event reporting.
• Help manage guest arrival, parking, camping, VIP areas, concessions, vendor areas and backstage operations.
• Identify operational risks and develop contingency plans for weather, traffic, staffing and other event-day challenges.
• Maintain organized event records, contracts, contact lists and operating documents.

• Respond to inquiries and conduct property tours.
• Help convert qualified leads into confirmed bookings.
• Guide clients through contracts, deposits, schedules and venue policies.
• Coordinate wedding rehearsals, ceremonies, receptions and private events.
• Serve as the primary venue contact before and during scheduled rentals.
• Identify opportunities to sell lodging, equipment, bar service and other Fireside upgrades.
• Ensure the property is properly prepared before each rental and restored afterward.

• Help identify and approach prospective event sponsors.
• Prepare proposals and coordinate sponsorship agreements.
• Maintain relationships with existing sponsors and encourage renewals.
• Ensure all promised sponsor benefits are delivered.
• Track sponsor payments, signage, hospitality, tickets and event-day activations.
• Develop relationships with regional businesses, tourism organizations and community partners.

• Maintain the master calendar for events, rentals, weddings and property projects.
• Coordinate property preparation, cleaning, mowing, maintenance and repairs with employees and contractors.
• Monitor event equipment, supplies and inventory.
• Obtain vendor estimates and help manage purchasing within approved budgets.
• Assist with permits, insurance documentation and regulatory requirements.
• Conduct regular property inspections and report maintenance or safety concerns.
• Help develop procedures that allow Fireside to grow efficiently and consistently.

• Recruit, schedule and supervise seasonal employees and event-day workers.
• Clearly communicate responsibilities, arrival times and performance expectations.
• Lead pre-event staff meetings and operational briefings.
• Coordinate outside vendors and hold them accountable for their contracted responsibilities.
• Promote a professional, welcoming and safety-conscious working environment.

The strongest candidates will have:

• Experience in event operations, venue management, hospitality, weddings, tourism or a related field.
• Excellent organizational and project-management skills.
• Strong written and verbal communication.
• The ability to manage several events and deadlines simultaneously.
• Confidence working with clients, sponsors, vendors and public officials.
• Experience developing budgets and controlling event expenses.
• Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to remain calm during live events.
• Proficiency with email, spreadsheets,…