Director of Operations | First Financial Center

LEGENDS GLOBAL

Legends Global is the premier partner to the world's greatest live events, venues, and brands. We deliver a fully integrated solution of premium services that keeps our partners front and center through our white-label approach. Our network of 450 venues worldwide, hosting 20,000 events and entertaining 165 million guests each year, is powered by our depth of expertise and level of execution across every component feasibility & consulting, owner’s representation, sales, partnerships, hospitality, merchandise, venue management, and content & booking of world-class live events and venues. The Legends Global culture is one of respect, ambitious thinking, collaboration, and bold action. We ae committed to building an inclusive workplace where everyone can be authentic, make an impact, and grow their career. Winning is an everyday thing at Legends Global. We have the best team members who understand every win is earned when we come together as one unified team. Sounds like a winning formula for you. Join us!

FIRST FINANICAL CENTER

The First Financial Center is located in the heart of downtown Cincinnati, Ohio, within blocks of top-rated restaurants, bars, pro-sports venues and attractions. First Financial Center has an innovative design that can accommodate both large and small groups. The First Financial Center recently completed a $264M reimagination and offers a 40,000 sq. ft. grand ballroom, 200,000 sq. ft. of exhibit space, and 30 deluxe meeting rooms.

THE ROLE

The Director of Operations provides strategic leadership and oversight for all operational functions across the First Financial Center. This role is responsible for ensuring seamless event execution, operational excellence, and alignment with ownership and organizational objectives. The Director of Operations leads cross-functional teams including engineering, exhibitor services, security, IT and facility operations, while driving process improvements, financial performance, and an exceptional guest and client experience.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Directs and oversees all aspects of venue operations, including Engineering, Building & Grounds, Exhibitor Services, IT, Public Safety and Security, Set-Up and Housekeeping.

• Coordinate operational activities with internal departments, clients, and third-party vendors to ensure facility readiness and successful execution of all events.

• Establishes and maintains operational standards, policies and procedures and a preventive maintenance program to ensure consistency, efficiency, and compliance.

• Oversee the maintenance and integrity of the physical plant, including all systems, equipment, and infrastructure.

• Leads the development and execution of annual operating and capital budgets, including long-term planning for repairs and improvements.

• Drives a culture of safety, ensuring compliance with all applicable laws, codes, and regulations, including OSHA and fire/life safety standards.

• Partners with the Assistant General Manager and leadership group on operational strategy, capital planning, and long-term venue performance.

• Monitors key performance indicators (KPIs) related to operations, event execution, and guest experience, implementing continuous improvement initiatives.

• Lead and oversee sustainability initiatives across facility operations including waste reduction, energy efficiency and sustainable event practices. Work with Legends Global impACTs program to track sustainability efforts and identify new areas of opportunity.

• Supports large-scale events including conventions, concerts, and outdoor programming, ensuring operational scalability across varying event types.

Supervisory Responsibilities

Carries out supervisory responsibilities in accordance with Legends Global’s policies and applicable laws. Responsibilities include interviewing, hiring, and training employees; planning, assigning, and directing work; appraising performance; rewarding; disciplining employees in conjunction with Human Resources; addressing complaints and resolving problems.

Qualifications

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Education and/or Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Facility Management, Engineering, Business Administration, or related field preferred.

• 7–10 years of progressive experience in venue, facility, or event operations within arenas, convention centers, amphitheaters, or similar environments.

• 3–5 years of leadership experience managing cross-functional teams.

• Experience overseeing large-scale live events, including conventions, tradeshows, and multi-day programs.

• Equivalent combination of education and experience will be considered.

Skills and Abilities

• Excellent organizational skills.

• Ability to prioritize and manage multiple projects simultaneously.

• Good written, verbal, and interpersonal skills required; ability to interact with all levels of staff including management.

• Ability to effectively supervise staff.

• Professional presentation, appearance, and work ethics.

• Knowledge of Microsoft Office, including Excel, Momentus and workorder platforms

• Ability to work with limited supervision and as a team member.

• Requires ability to work flexible and extended hours, including nights, weekends, and holidays, in addition to normal business hours.

COMPENSATION

Competitive salary, commensurate with experience, and a generous benefits package that includes medical, dental, vision, life and disability insurance, paid vacation, and 401k plan.

WORKING CONDITIONS

Location: On Site – First Financial Center (Cincinnati, OH)

Physical Demands

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

NOTE: The essential responsibilities of this position are described under the headings above. They may be subject to change at any time due to reasonable accommodation or other reasons. Also, this document in no way states or implies that these are the only duties to be performed by the employee occupying this position.

Legends Global is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer, and encourages Women, Minorities, Individuals with Disabilities, and protected Veterans to apply. VEVRAA Federal Contractor.