The SPECIAL EVENTS MANAGER is responsible for assisting with the planning, development, coordination, and execution of the operational management and marketing plans for the Bull Run Regional Park Special Events Center and the annual Festival of Lights drive-through light show. Work is performed under the general direction of the Park Manager with latitude for independent judgment and action. The Special Events Manager may assume charge of park operations in the absence of the Park Manager. Annual performance goals will be set for the Special Events Manager. The Special Events Manager position is eligible to transfer within the NOVA Parks system.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS (with illustrative examples of work)

Coordinate and oversee Bull Run Special Events:

• Manage event venues throughout Bull Run Regional Park.
• Respond to verbal and written inquiries for information about special events and facilities.
• Arrange and provide tours.
• Initiate and carry out contractual agreements and use permits.
• Receive and/or process payments, issue receipts, prepare other documentation as needed.
• Work closely with in-house and outside event staff.
• Reserve required facilities and ensure readiness for scheduled events.
• Act as the on-site NOVA Parks management presence during events.
• Maintain effective relationships with groups such as vendors, local EMS and law enforcement services, and special user groups.

Coordinate and oversee annual Festival of Lights drive-through light show and holiday village:

• Coordinate installation and removal of light show displays and holiday village.
• Implement a staffing plan for the event.
• Work with outside vendors and sponsors.
• Perform daily management functions during the show's operation.
• Implement an effective retail operations plan.
• Manage cash handling procedures, cash receipt reconciliations, deposits, and merchandise inventory.

Market and promote use of facilities and attendance:

• Develop and implement marketing programs designed to increase usage for the events center and Festival of Lights
• Develop and maintain list of potential and previous clients.
• Prepare and distribute written literature.
• Actively seek and maintain sponsorship partners.

Assist with management of personnel:

• Interview and hire applicants for seasonal/part-time employment.
• Plan, direct, and control the work of employees in the operation of park facilities.
• Determine workload, assign priorities, schedule employees, and allocate resources.
• Maintain attendance records and authorize payment of wages through computerized timekeeping program.
• Develop and implement training programs for employees.
• Analyze and resolve employee work problems through application and interpretation of Personnel Policies.
• Develop performance standards and indicators and evaluate employee performance against those standards.
• Ensure adherence to fair and equitable hiring practices.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS (minimum)

Education: Graduation from an accredited four-year college or university with a Bachelor's degree in park management, Event Planning/Hospitality or closely related field preferred or an exceptional combination of education, experience, and training that is equivalent to a four-year degree.

Physical: Non-manual and manual work with strength and dexterity necessary to perform all required tasks, including lifting, stooping, bending, and working in tiring and uncomfortable positions in an office and outdoor settings. Will perform manual labor in all weather conditions, lift items at or greater than 40 pounds, climb ladders, use tools and operate equipment.

Experience: Two years of progressively responsible experience as special events planner, or any equivalent combination of education, training, or experience which provides:

• General knowledge of marketing principles and techniques with ability to develop and implement an effective, results-driven promotional plan.
• Knowledge of contract practices and procedures.
• Considerable ability to deal courteously and effectively with the general public and special interest groups.
• Considerable ability to communicate clearly and effectively with ability to prepare and present accurate reports.
• Ability to acquire comprehensive knowledge of the park, facilities, and associated user fees.
• Working knowledge of general office practices and procedures with ability to maintain detailed, organized accounting records.
• Proficiency with personal computers, with extensive knowledge of Windows, Word, Excel.
• Knowledge of sound business procedures with ability to accurately process contractual agreements and deposits.
• Ability to develop and maintain effective relationships with co-workers and partnerships with outside vendors/contractors/associations.
• Possession of or ability to obtain and maintain driver's license with safe driving record.
• Availability to work evenings, weekends, and/or special events.
• Regular and predictable attendance is an essential function of the position.

Duties and responsibilities are designed to be the essential elements of the job. They do not preclude the performance of related, or even unrelated, jobs which may be necessary to properly and efficiently complete all work assignments. NOVA Parks reserves the right to amend job specifications to meet current needs.

Benefits: This position is a benefit eligible position. Benefits include medical and dental insurance, life insurance, long-term disability, retirement plan, and more.

Testing: The Special Events Manager position is classified as a safety sensitive position. Candidates for full-time, safety sensitive positions must submit to a pre-employment drug screening and achieve a negative result as a condition of employment.

It is the policy of NOVA Parks to prohibit discrimination on the basis of race, sex, color, national origin, religion, age, veteran status, political affiliation, genetics, or disability in the recruitment, selection, and hiring of its workforce.

Reasonable accommodations are available to persons with disabilities during application and/or interview processes per the Americans with Disabilities Act. Contact 703-352-5900 for assistance.

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