Job Title: Executive Director
Status: Exempt, Salaried, Benefits-Eligible
Benefits: Medical, Dental, Optical for employees and dependents per MCCC policies; Public Employee Retirement System; Life Insurance; Personal and Medical Leave as per MCCC personnel policies.
Position Overview
The Executive Director provides strategic leadership and overall management of the Mississippi Coast Coliseum and Convention Center. This role is responsible for overseeing daily operations, managing personnel, preparing and administering the annual budget, securing and negotiating event contracts, and ensuring the organization remains financially sustainable and community-focused.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
- The Executive Director’s responsibilities include, but are not limited to:
- Directs administrative, engineering, and operations departments.
- Book and manage entertainment events for the Arena, including negotiating and executing event contracts, setting rental rates, staffing, and settlements.
- Plan and oversee production, technical, and operational requirements for events in coordination with operations and box office staff.
- Develop and implement corporate sponsorship programs; identify and secure additional revenue sources.
- Build and maintain strong relationships with entertainment industry representatives, community leaders, and stakeholders to generate revenue and increase visibility.
- Represent the organization at regional and national meetings, conferences, and professional associations; stay current on industry trends and opportunities.
- Serve as the public face of the Coliseum Commission; attend community events and respond to inquiries, issues, and complaints with professionalism.
- Promote a culture of customer service excellence across all departments.
- Build and maintain relationships with elected officials, local and statewide.
Minimum Qualifications
Knowledge of:
- Venue and convention center management best practices.
- Principles of organizational leadership, long-range planning, public financing, budgeting, and program development.
- Contract negotiation, business communications, and employee supervision.
- Applicable state and federal laws and regulations governing public facilities.
Ability to:
- Provide effective leadership in managing operations, personnel, and finances.
- Develop and implement policies that align with organizational goals and revenue targets.
- Pursue and secure diverse entertainment and event opportunities.
- Communicate effectively in both oral and written formats.
- Use Microsoft Office (Word, PowerPoint, Excel) proficiently.
Education and Experience
- Education: Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Public Administration, or related field required.
- Experience: Minimum of six (6) years of progressively responsible management in venue, convention center, or related management role.
