Sr. Manager, Convention Services at Houston First – Houston, Texas

IN-PERSON - HOUSTON, TX.

Houston First recognizes and appreciates the importance of cultivating an environment that nurtures talent; that is equitable and values different perspectives and backgrounds; and, above all, is respectful to everyone. Our Mission is to create value and enhance economic prosperity by promoting the Houston region.

We are seeking a Senior Manager, Convention Services to oversee all aspects of the City-Wide meetings, conventions, and large-scale events taking place in the venues, including developing, coordinating, and supervising all event-related activities key to the operation of the facility, including but not limited to vendor coordination, labor management, collection, and distribution of event information.

Serving as the primary liaison to clients, internal teams, and external partners, this leader ensures seamless communication, operational excellence, and the successful delivery of high‑impact events that elevate the attendee experience.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES

• ☒ Supervises: manages contractors during events/ train and supervises Interns, Event Manager, and Coordinators.

• ☒ Maintain staff by recruiting, selecting, orienting, training and supervising team members.

  ☒ Plan, assign, and appraise performance; rewarding and disciplining team members by addressing complaints, and resolving problems.

DESCRIPTION OF DUTIES/ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Collaborates closely with the sales and client services team at the start of the event management process to gather comprehensive information and conduct site visits with clients
• Executes site visits to promote the venues alongside sales and client services staff, highlighting the facilities to potential clients.
• Manages contractor staff to ensure they meet the event's demands efficiently.
• Acts as the on-duty manager during events, overseeing all operations and promptly addressing any issues that arise.
• Meets with the client's show manager to understand their vision and requirements for the event.
• Manages contractor staff to ensure they meet the demands of the event efficiently
• Attends planning meetings with clients and their vendors. Conduct pre-convention meetings with the Center, divisions, clients, and their contracted vendors.
• Collects and manages information to produce an event.
• Create detailed event documentation, including schedules, department instructions, and diagrams, utilizing industry-specific software to ensure comprehensive planning and coordination.
• Executes and explains contracts with clients, ensuring they understand all terms and conditions to ensure dates, times, facilities, and equipment provided are correct and contractual provisions have been fulfilled.
• Interfaces and assists other divisions with special projects that impact the in-house events.
• Oversee the scheduling and execution of overlapping events within shared public spaces.
• Proactively identify and resolve potential conflicts to prevent disruptions and equipment shortages and ensure a smooth experience for all parties involved.
• Monitors the event from start to finish, including move-in and setup, through the event, breakdown, and move-out.
• Ensures compliance with all buildings and City of Houston Fire Codes to maintain safety standards.
• Completes and closes all event paperwork and files promptly and accurately.
• Ensures all event information is accurate and current in the system for seamless coordination and record-keeping.
• Leads and conducts orientation for interns, ensuring they are familiar with the company's policies, procedures, and the convention services department’s standards and practices.
• Evaluated the performance and progress of interns through regular check-ins and performance reviews, identifying areas for improvement and providing constructive feedback.
• Provides ongoing mentorship and support to new team members and interns, offering guidance and feedback to help them develop their skills and integrate seamlessly into the team.
• Other duties and special projects

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

• Bachelor’s Degree or professional designation through IAVM
• 5+ years’ experience as an Event Manager in a convention center, hotel, or similar environment

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, including expert‑level skills in Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and experience with event management platforms such as Momentus.
• Proven ability to work independently and proactively across a wide range of events and projects.
• Strong adaptability with the capacity to manage shifting priorities and evolving program elements.
• Exceptional organizational skills, sound judgment, and meticulous attention to detail.
• Demonstrated ability to collaborate effectively under pressure with diverse internal teams, external partners, and clients while managing multiple concurrent projects.
• Excellent interpersonal and phone communication skills, with a professional and service‑oriented approach.

WORK ENVIRONMENT
The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

• No major sources of discomfort; essentially normal office environment with acceptable lighting, temperature, and air conditions.
• Ability to travel to local/ tradeshows/conventions/ conferences/ training and development (less than 10% of the year)