Manager, Arena Operations

Job Description Summary

The Manager of Arena Operations, reporting to the Assistant Athletic Director, is responsible for the overall management and daily operations of the Bentley University Arena—home to Bentley’s NCAA Division I Men’s Ice Hockey program and a wide range of university and external events. This role plays a critical part in delivering a high‑quality experience for student‑athletes, campus partners, and external clients through exceptional facility management and event execution.

• Manage ice and building rentals and oversee the revenue generation plan for the building.
• Oversee all aspects of ice maintenance, including driving the Zamboni and managing the ice‑in/ice‑out process.
• Coordinate floor conversions, glass removal/installation, and load‑in/load‑out for non‑ice events (e.g., concerts, lectures, university functions).
• Manage daily operations, including budgeting, staffing, and scheduling.
• Maintain arena equipment and inventory, including ice maintenance tools, Zambonis, AV systems, and furniture.
• Hire, train, schedule, and supervise professional staff, student workers, and event contractors.
• Administer job descriptions, onboarding, and payroll for Ice Crew, Operations Staff, AV Broadcast Crew, and Building Supervisors.
• Manage arena scheduling and event coordination with Athletics, Student Programs & Engagement (SP&E), the Conference Center, and external rental clients.
• Coordinate procurement and vendor management for capital projects and operational needs.
• Oversee daily setups in the cube, concourse, locker rooms, and rink/floor.
• Manage HVAC and climate systems in partnership with Facilities Management.
• Oversee rental contracts, insurance documentation, and scheduling for 12–15 external ice rental clients.

• Collaborate with Athletics Event Staff and Marketing to execute Division I Men’s Ice Hockey home events.
• Work closely with the Assistant Arena Manager to ensure smooth event operations.
• Meet regularly with the Men’s Ice Hockey coaching staff to support program needs.

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited four‑year college or university.
• 5+ years of relevant experience in arena or facility operations.
• Knowledge of safety practices and applicable standards for ice rink facilities.
• Strong verbal, written, and presentation communication skills.
• Proven ability to adapt to changing priorities and work a flexible schedule, including nights, weekends, and holidays.
• Excellent customer service and interpersonal skills; ability to work with diverse groups.
• Strong time management and organizational abilities.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook).
• Technical knowledge of ice rink operations, hockey, and skating.
• Ability to perform minor repairs and maintain rink machinery.

• Certified Ice Technician (CIT) or equivalent certification; participation in annual conferences and meetings.
• CPR/First Aid, AED certification.
• Experience with scheduling and facility management software.
• Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) or equivalent certification; participation in annual conferences and meetings.
• North East Ice Skating Manager Association (NEISMA) facility member and individual membership; participation in annual conferences and meetings.
• Experience with NEVCO systems and scheduling systems such as EMS.

• Leadership and team management
• Event logistics and operations
• Facility and equipment maintenance
• Budget oversight and vendor coordination
• Crisis management and problem‑solving

• This position requires availability for evening, weekend, and holiday shifts, especially during the hockey season and major university events.

• This role requires standing, walking, sitting, using hands, reaching, balancing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, talking, and hearing. Must occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds. Work is performed in both office and arena environments, including cold conditions on the ice.
• Bentley University is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace. We encourage candidates from all backgrounds to apply.

At Bentley…