Food Hall Event Manager

Job Overview

The Event Manager oversees the sales, planning, and execution of private and public events at Eastern Edge Food Hall-a chef-driven, globally inspired dining destination in the heart of Kendall Square. Eastern Edge is a culinary collider where innovation meets indulgence, a dynamic intersection of culture, creativity, and cuisine. This leader is responsible for driving group sales, maximizing event revenue, and creating meaningful guest experiences through community activations, buyouts, and private dining opportunities. The Event Manager acts as the connective force between vendors, guests, and the operations team, ensuring every event reflects Ithaka Hospitality Partners' culture of excellence, craftsmanship, and genuine hospitality. The role requires a balance of entrepreneurial drive, detail-oriented execution, and a sincere commitment to creating memorable, community-centered experiences.

Event Sales & Business Development

• Actively sell and prospect event opportunities with local corporate offices, Cambridge/Kendall Square businesses, and university partners.
• Manage all inbound leads and proposals through Tripleseat, ensuring timely responses and accurate contract documentation.
• Develop and maintain strong relationships with corporate clients, university partners, and community organizations to drive repeat business.
• Collaborate with marketing to promote private dining, full-hall buyouts, and seasonal activations.
• Forecast event revenue and build strategies to achieve quarterly and annual sales goals.

Event Planning & Execution

• Serve as the primary point of contact for all client communication from inquiry through post-event follow-up.
• Coordinate details with vendors, culinary teams, and operational leaders to ensure seamless event setup and execution.
• Oversee layout, décor, AV, staffing, and logistical needs for all events within the Food Hall and designated event spaces.
• Supervise setup and breakdown to ensure adherence to brand standards and guest expectations.
• Create event timelines, floor plans to support smooth execution.

Vendor & Client Collaboration

• Partner with Food Hall vendors to develop event-specific menus, tastings, and beverage pairings.
• Ensure vendor readiness and alignment for both private and public activations.
• Coordinate vendor participation in festivals, live music nights, chef demos, and community events.
• Support cross-promotions and brand collaborations that highlight the culinary diversity of Eastern Edge Food Hall.

Programming & Activations

• Develop and execute engaging public activations such as live music, sports viewing parties, themed food events, and community activations
• Partner with marketing and operations to create event calendars that enhance traffic during off-peak periods.
• Track performance of activations and recommend adjustments to drive increased engagement and profitability.
• Ensure all activations reflect the brand's culture of creativity, inclusivity, and local connection.

Financial & Administrative Oversight

• Manage event budgets, deposits, invoicing, and post-event reconciliation.
• Prepare weekly and monthly sales reports for leadership review.
• Ensure compliance with all local regulations and IHP financial policies.
• Maintain accurate event documentation and cost tracking in Tripleseat and internal systems.

Guest Experience & Brand Representation

• Provide on-site leadership during events to ensure exceptional guest experiences.
• Anticipate client and guest needs, resolving issues with professionalism and warmth.
• Collect post-event feedback to inform continuous improvement.
• Represent Eastern Edge and IHP at community events, trade shows, and university functions to expand brand presence.

Leadership & Collaboration

• Work collaboratively with the Food Hall's Operations Manager, marketing team, and vendor partners to ensure alignment across all initiatives.
• Foster a culture of sincere hospitality, creativity, and empowerment consistent with IHP's core values.
• Support leadership development within the Food Hall team.

Qualifications

• Minimum two year of progressive hospitality or event management experience.
• Proven success in event sales, planning, and execution in a multi-vendor or food hall environment preferred.
• Preferred background in Tripleseat or comparable CRM/event management software.
• Strong organizational and communication skills with exceptional attention to detail.
• Financial acumen with experience in budgeting, forecasting, and P&L tracking.
• ServSafe and alcohol service certification (or ability to obtain).

Desired Attributes

• Hands-on, energetic, and relationship-driven.
• Creative thinker with a deep appreciation for community and culinary culture.
• Calm and confident under pressure with exceptional problem-solving skills.
• Entrepreneurial mindset with a passion for building programs from the ground up.
• Committed to Ithaka's mission of purpose-driven hospitality and sincere connection.