Director of Operations | Full-Time | Hamilton Arena

Oak View Group

Oak View Group is the global leader in venue development, management, and premium hospitality services for the live event industry. Offering an unmatched, 360-degree solution set for a collection of world-class owned venues and a client roster that includes the most influential, highest attended arenas, convention centers, music festivals, performing arts centers, and cultural institutions on the planet.

Position Summary

The Director of Operations is a critical leadership role, responsible for overseeing all operational aspects of Hamilton Arena to ensure exceptional guest experiences, operational efficiency, and venue safety. This role requires a strategic thinker with strong leadership, problem-solving, and communication skills to manage a dynamic, high-energy environment.

This role pays an annual salary of $100,000-$130,000 CAD and is bonus eligible.

Benefits for Full-Time roles: Health, Dental and Vision Insurance, Pension matching, and Paid Time Off (vacation days, sick days, and 11 holidays).

This position will remain open until July 4, 2025.

About the Venue

We are at the forefront of transforming the Hamilton Arena into a world-class entertainment hub as part of a $280 million redevelopment project. This state-of-the-art venue will host premier concerts, sporting events, and live experiences, contributing to the revitalization of downtown Hamilton.

Responsibilities

Venue Operations & Management

• Lead and manage all arena operations, including facility maintenance, event setup, and day-to-day venue functionality.
• Develop and implement operational strategies to optimize efficiency, enhance guest experience, and maintain the highest safety standards.
• Coordinate with event managers, production teams, and vendors to ensure seamless event execution.
• Oversee conversions, housekeeping, and maintenance teams, ensuring compliance with all health and safety regulations.
• Oversee all unionized IUOE 772 Full time staff, IATSE 129 part time staff and third-party contractors

Leadership & Team Management

• Build, mentor, and lead a high-performing operations team, fostering a culture of excellence and accountability.
• Establish and maintain standard operating procedures (SOPs) for all operational departments.
• Work closely with senior leadership to align operational goals with the venue’s overall business strategy.

Budgeting & Financial Oversight

• Develop and manage operational budgets, optimizing cost efficiencies while maintaining high service standards.
• Analyze financial reports, track operational expenses, and implement cost-saving initiatives.
• Negotiate and manage labor group contracts (IATSE 129, IUOE 772).
• Negotiate and manage vendor contracts, procurement, and service agreements.

Event Execution & Guest Experience

• Oversee all event-day operations to ensure flawless execution of concerts, sports events, and other live experiences.
• Ensure guest services and front-of-house teams deliver a world-class experience for all attendees.
• Implement venue accessibility and sustainability initiatives to enhance overall inclusivity and environmental responsibility.

Compliance & Risk Management

• Ensure compliance with all local, provincial, and federal regulations, including fire codes, safety protocols, and labor laws.
• Develop and oversee emergency response plans, ensuring staff are trained and prepared for any contingencies.
• Conduct regular facility inspections to maintain operational excellence and mitigate risks.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Facility Management, Sports Management, or a related field (or equivalent experience).
• 7+ years of experience in arena, stadium, or large-scale event venue operations, with at least 3 years in a senior leadership role.
• Strong knowledge of event production, facility management, and security protocols.
• Proven experience managing large teams, budgets, and vendor relationships.
• Proven experience working with and in a union environment.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, high-pressure environment.
• Proficiency in venue management software and operational reporting tools is an asset.

Strengthened by our Differences. United to Make a Difference

At OVG, we understand that to continue positively disrupting the sports and live entertainment industry, we need a diverse team to help us do it. We also believe that inclusivity drives innovation, strengthens ourpeople, improves ourservice, and raises ourexcellence. Our success is rooted in creating environments that reflect and celebrate the diverse communities in which we operate and serve, and this is the reason we are committed to amplifying voices from all different backgrounds.