General Manager

As the General Manager and venue leader of daily operations and guest experiences at the Nashville Riverfront Amphitheater (Ascend Amphitheater), you will take charge of overseeing and optimizing every aspect of the venue. You'll guide the development, implementation, and execution of business strategies across operations, entertainment programming, food & beverage, retail, and sales. Your focus will be on driving revenue growth and maximizing financial performance. You'll set the tone for a collaborative, service-focused culture-leading by example with passion and integrity while inspiring your team to deliver exceptional service and create unforgettable experiences for every guest. Reports to SVP & Chief Operating Officer of Opry Entertainment Group.

• Provide leadership and direction across all operations and staff functions, while creating and influencing the appropriate culture. Coordinate departments for clear communication and smooth daily operations.
• Identify, develop, and implement operational efficiencies and process standardization to achieve organizational goals. Oversee compliance with established policies.
• Ensure all departments (F&B, production, guest services, security, retail, etc.) meet or exceed budgeted financial expectations. Provide oversight and guidance in staffing and operational execution.
• Identify revenue opportunities while controlling expenses to maximize profitability and investment return criteria.
• Partner with corporate leadership to prepare annual budgets, monthly forecasts, and conduct P&L management. Develop short- and long-term plans for revenue growth and cost control measures.
• Guide contract preparation and negotiation with vendors and service providers. Ensure appropriate oversight and supervision of vendors and service providers to ensure compliance with facility, corporate, and government requirements.
• Collaborate with corporate leadership and internal partners (Marketing, IT, HR, Accounting, etc.) to execute strategies and achieve goals. Facilitate proper communication and organization between the venue and corporate office.
• Manage maintenance and security to protect and ensure employee and guest safety. Ensure that equipment and facilities meet company, state, and local health laws.
• Support the execution of capital improvement projects with corporate leadership.
• Maintain a proactive human resource function to meet the highest recruiting, hiring, training and team development standards. Develop direct reports by communicating performance expectations and delivering timely feedback. Conduct employee evaluations and disciplinary actions when necessary.
• Resolve conflicts effectively and maintain a discrimination-free workplace per corporate standards.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Requirements:

Education

• High school diploma or equivalent required; college degree preferred
• Degree in hospitality or business management is desirable; a combination of practical experience and education will be considered as an alternative

Experience

• 8+ years of progressive experience in venue operations management in live events or related industry required
• 2+ years of total venue oversight and leadership required
• Strong financial acumen and business development skills, including demonstrated understanding of P&L management

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Excellent interpersonal, written and verbal communication skills
• Strong leadership and managerial skills that include ability to coach, develop, and communicate expectations
• Ability to establish clear direction, set goals, monitor progress and measure results
• Passion for the entertainment business and compassion for people
• Capable of creating fun in a fast-paced, multi-faceted environment
• Proficient experience with Microsoft Office (Outlook, Word, Excel)

Licenses / Certifications

• Must complete Crowd Management training upon hire
• Valid driver's license with satisfactory driving record required

Physical Requirements

Ability to speak and hear. Close and distance vision. Frequent walking and standing. Occasionally climbs, sits, kneels, bends, steps up/down and reaches above shoulder. May repeatedly traverse stairs and walk on uneven terrain, often while carrying product. Occasionally lifts/carries up to 50 lbs. May be required to team-lift over 50 lbs. Continual use of manual dexterity and gross motor skills with frequent use of bi-manual dexterity and fine motor skills.

Working Conditions

Normal office conditions, often in close contact with others. Outdoor event environments include variable weather conditions, large crowds, and elevated noise levels.