Zoo Events Manager - Oregon Zoo

Zoo Events Manager - Oregon Zoo

The Oregon Zoo Events Manager is responsible for creating, planning, growing, and implementing memorable events and experiences for zoo guests at a variety of public and private events. Current events include summer festival nights, Halloween events, spring events, assisting with Zoo Lights, and more. The role will assist in developing new and exciting programs while supervising and coordinating staff. Position will act as a liaison for public, private, and internal events while contributing to the growing portfolio of attendance and revenue producing events.

Note:

This is an onsite only role and requires working at least one weekend day regularly and additional weekend, early morning, and late-night shifts.

• Plan, coordinate, implement and execute assigned events, from start to finish, within budget ensuring success.
• Grow and enhance the walk and run program.
• Manage vendor and entertainer solicitation and agreements, execution of event logistics, procurement of necessary licensing and permits, post-event evaluation, etc.
• Prepare event-related documents, including event plans, event schedules, staffing requests, diagrams, cost estimates, billing statements and purchase orders.
• Oversee assigned event budgets, including management of expenses and revenue; allocate resources effectively.
• Recruit, hire, train and supervise full-time, seasonal, and variable hour staff by planning, organizing, and coordinating workloads and assignments, including coaching, and evaluating performance.
• Act as a liaison to other zoo staff, members of the Oregon Zoo Foundation, and clients in organizing and executing private and self‑promoted events.
• Review service delivery and financial outcomes; adjust events and activities to optimize financial returns and/or the guest experience for future.
• Provide strategic support and collaboration for the planning process of short-term and long-term department goals. Will be responsible for carrying out these strategic initiatives.
• Coordinate and manage projects with vendors, contractors, and consultants. Develop RFP’s, RFB’s, technical specifications, contracts, and budgets for needs, materials, and services.
• Coordinate service and material purchases. Oversee the provision and use of these items and services during events.
• Use a variety of software including the zoo’s event management system, floor planning and ticketing system, to develop plans and documents.
• Oversee warehouse operations including vending, uniforms, and staff supervision.

• Actively participate on committees and/or attend meetings as assigned.
• Fulfill Metro’s core values of public service, excellence, teamwork, respect, innovation and sustainability.
• Build and maintain positive relationships and contribute to a positive team atmosphere; engage others in ways that foster respect and trust.
• Encourage and appreciate diversity in people and ideas – seek to understand the perspectives of others.
• Provide excellent customer service – assist the public, public officials and agency partners, and other employees in a professional and courteous manner with the goal of meeting or exceeding expectations.
• Practice continuous improvement - research new possibilities, contribute ideas and stay current in the field of work.
• Demonstrate sustainable practices in applicable field and generally for resource use and protection.
• Work assigned schedule (if applicable); exhibit regular and predictable attendance.
• Practice safe work habits.
• Comply with Metro and Metro’s visitor venues policies, procedures and applicable work rules; applicable law and collective bargaining agreements as appropriate.
• Perform assigned duties during an emergency.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

• Strong knowledge of staff supervision with experience in a union environment, including planning and organizing work activities, recruitment, training, coaching and motivating staff and volunteers.
• Strong foundational knowledge of event planning and the technical and practical aspects of event design, set‑up, breakdown, and coordination.
• Detail‑oriented with the ability to be…