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The Prince George's County Department of Parks and Recreation, of the Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission is seeking an Arena General Manager to manage the Prince George’s Equestrian Center/Show Place Arena.


Under general direction the General Manager (GM) is responsible for the day to day management and operation of 5,000 seat indoor multi-use arena and a seven ring equestrian center located in Upper Marlboro, Maryland. The GM supervises 17 full time staff including operational, administrative and maintenance staff, and a part time event staff of 80, performing various duties associated with events. GM is responsible for developing and implementing revenue generating programs including but not limited to rental of properties for horse shows, (local, regional, and national) trade shows, sporting events and special events, and the negotiation of contracts related to these events. GM is responsible for the fiscal stability and management of the operating budget and projecting annual revenues. GM is also the public face of the facility building relationships that foster new business opportunities for the arena operations. GM will also develop business and strategic plans for the purpose of growing the program and anticipating capital needs including but limited to replacement of HVAC equipment, seating, barns, roofing etc.

The manager is responsible for negotiating contracts with individuals or groups. This individual plans and implements local, regional and metropolitan activities,programs and events. These activities, programs and events are innovative, revenue-generating, and critical to both the Commission and bi-county areas.
EXAMPLES OF IMPORTANT DUTIES:
1. Manages and directs all operations at a combined, multi-functional complex housing several distinct and separate, simultaneously operating programs and facilities, (e.g., sports & learning complex or public arena/equestrian operations) providing recreational, sporting, cultural, and revenue-generating programs and events for the community and metropolitan area. Defines and implements operational goals and objectives. Establishes operating procedures (e.g., hours, building security, safety).

2. Ensures that all recreational areas are safe, usable, and in playable condition. Investigates accidents, fires, crimes, and other incidents, and provides for a safe environment for staff and patrons.

3. Negotiates contracts with individuals or groups outside of the Commission to gain acceptance. Management, as well as good marketing strategy, is utilized to resolve disagreements and opposition. The success or failure of these negotiations represent the success or failure of the complex. Issues are often highly publicized and politically sensitive.

4. Manages and coordinates a wide variety of cultural and recreational programs and activities Defines goals and objectives. Sets program standards and regularly evaluates programs to assess and report their effectiveness and accomplishment of goals and objectives. Plans, researches, and evaluates programs. Develops and manages a variety of specialized recreational, cultural, and park programs and Commission-sponsored community activities. Allocates staff and resources to accomplish program goals. Develops, plans, organizes, and coordinates specialized recreational, cultural, and park programs and activities. Recommends and monitors program fees. Meets with citizens, community groups, and business groups to identify needs, plan programs, and answer questions about the facility and its programs. Investigates complaints involving highly sensitive issues and problems.

5. Develops marketing strategies. Plans and designs programs to publicize activities, programs, services, and promote attendance. Sends promotional materials to individuals, news media, and groups to generate interest in the complex, programs, and events. Negotiates signage and sponsorships. Work with consultants and internal public relations staff to develop best marketing strategies to include major television, radio, and print media.

6. Manages and coordinates operating budget which includes revenue-producing facilities and programs. Directs preparation of annual budget request. Controls expenditures in accordance with approved budget. Monitors significant revenue-producing programs and activities.

7. Supervises staff. Plans, schedules, and assigns work of supervisors and other staff. Evaluates and counsels on ways to improve staff performance and program effectiveness. Initiates disciplinary actions.

8. Coordinates externally. Coordinates activities with other Commission units and government agencies. Works in and around the local community in support of special programs and events. Meets with citizens, community groups, business groups, sports associations, national governing bodies of sports, Public School System, Planning Board, County Council, and other government agencies to identify needs, plan programs, and answer questions about the complex and its functions. Reconciles differences and responds to special needs.

9. Generates revenue. Manages and directs the complex as a revenue-generating operation. Directs preparation and maintenance of records of revenues. Solicits major sponsorship for the funding of programs. Negotiates fees with consultants and promotes the use of facility for national and international events. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
1. Bachelor's degree in one of the following fields: parks, recreation, education, business administration, public administration, physical education, communication/marketing, leisure services, or in area of required specialty; and,

2. Six years of progressively responsible professional experience in a park administration/ management facility related to public assembly facility management with three years of supervisory experience; or

3. An equivalent combination of education and experience.

4. Valid driver’s license.
APPLICATIONS MAY BE FILED ONLINE AT:
http://www.mncppc.org/jobs


OPENING DATE: 12/02/11 CLOSING DATE: 01/31/12 11:59 PM