Senior Director of Hospitality and Events-Circuit of the Americas

Job Overview

Circuit of The Americas (COTA) is a 365-entertainment destination for world-class events located in Austin, TX. The sports and entertainment portfolio at COTA is unmatched in the country with Formula 1 US Grand Prix, NASCAR, and MotoGP attracting global fans during championship races on the famed Circuit and LiveNation producing over 30 headline concerts every year at the Germania Insurance Amphitheater.

We are seeking a dynamic and energetic Senior Director of Hospitality and Special Events to lead our hospitality initiatives and orchestrate memorable events that elevate our brand experience. This pivotal role combines strategic oversight with hands-on management of event planning, venue operations, guest services, and hospitality programs. The ideal candidate will possess a passion for creating exceptional guest experiences, a flair for marketing and upselling, and a proven ability to coordinate complex events with precision. Join us to inspire teams, build lasting relationships, and deliver outstanding hospitality that leaves a lasting impression. This position will require up to 4 weeks per year in travel supporting additional events. 

Duties

• Oversee all aspects of event planning, including all front of house operations
• Lead the hospitality team in delivering exemplary guest services, ensuring every visitor’s experience exceeds expectations.
• Manage budgets effectively, including cost control, vendor negotiations, and upselling opportunities to enhance revenue streams.
• Coordinate with catering services, banquet teams, and external vendors to ensure seamless event execution.
• Implement innovative marketing initiatives to boost event visibility and engagement across multiple channels.
• Supervise the organization of special events such as races, concerts and gatherings, while maintaining high standards of quality and professionalism.
• Foster strong relationships with clients, partners, and stakeholders through excellent communication skills and personalized service.
• Monitor industry trends in hospitality, event management, and guest services to continuously improve offerings and operational efficiency.
• Ensure compliance with safety regulations, licensing requirements, and contractual obligations for all events.

Qualifications

• Proven experience in hospitality management, event planning, or related roles within large venue settings.
• Strong negotiation skills with the ability to secure favorable contracts with vendors and partners.
• Excellent organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously under tight deadlines.
• Exceptional communication skills for effective collaboration with teams, clients, and stakeholders.
• Hands-on banquet experience along with knowledge of catering operations and restaurant environments.

CORE VALUE AND COMPETENCY REQUIREMENTS

Business Acumen - Demonstrate comprehension of the job, including policies, practices, and relationships. Possess the expertise and skill levels required of the job and perform with quality.

Dedication - Dependable, reliable and follows through on projects from inception to completion. Willing to put in as much time as necessary to complete tasks. Demonstrate a win-win attitude: “see it, own it, solve it.”

Ethics and Integrity - Acts with integrity, honesty and knowledge that promote the company’s culture, values and beliefs while maintaining the highest standards of professional conduct.

Safety & Security - Observe safety and security standards. Use equipment and materials properly. Comply with safety standards and personal protective equipment requirements. Report potential unsafe conditions or practices to appropriate person immediately. Promote restaurant safety, cleanliness and security compliance at all times.

Teamwork - Cooperate and be willing to work as a team player to achieve goals and tasks accurately, efficiently and timely.

Communication - Communicate clearly and effectively with mutual respect, understanding and trust to fellow associates, managers, supervisors and guests. Listen carefully to opinions and views of others; state understanding of what has been heard.

Initiative - Contribute new ideas and suggestions to enhance productivity and efficiency. Be proactive in troubleshooting problems or issues and take action to mitigate potential problems.

Adaptability & Planning - Possess the ability to learn new tasks and adjusts well to new situations. Perform well under tight time schedules and pressures to change direction quickly.

Service Orientation - Demonstrates a sense of urgency. Is welcoming, friendly and smiles when visible to guests.

Work Environment

This position breakdown will range between in-office work and event attendance based on the venue event schedule. 

Physical Demands:

• Bending, lifting, scooping, and carrying miscellaneous equipment and food items
• At times there will be prolonged times of sitting and computer usage.
• Ability to perform physical tasks; such as but not limited to, lifting approx. 25 lbs.

Position Salary & Benefits:

• Salary Range of $80,000-$110,000 per year + 11% performance bonus
• Benefits include health insurance, dental, vision, life, 401k, short & long term disability, HSA, daily lunches in office

Proof of the Pudding and its affiliates are an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to inclusion and employing a diverse workforce. All applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, sexual orientation, and gender.