What are the responsibilities and job description for the Director, Operational Development – New Ventures position at Universal Destinations & Experiences?
Major Responsibilities
EXPERIENCE: 10 years of experience in a hospitality or operational environment is required; 5 years in theme park related work and management is required; or equivalent combination of education and experience. Extensive experience opening new attractions and/or parks a major plus.
Your talent, skills and experience will be rewarded with a competitive compensation package.
Universal is not accepting unsolicited assistance from search firms for this employment opportunity. All resumes submitted by search firms to any employee at Universal Destinations & Experiences via-email, the Internet or in any form and/or method without a valid written Statement of Work in place for this position from Universal Destinations & Experiences HR/Recruitment will be deemed the sole property of Universal Destinations & Experiences. No fee will be paid in the event the candidate is hired by Universal Destinations & Experiences as a result of the referral or through other means.
Universal Destinations & Experiences is an equal opportunity employer. Universal elements and all related indicia TM & © 2025 Universal Studios. All rights reserved. EOE
- Manages initiatives to drive Universal Destination & Experiences (UDX) domestic and international new ventures through market research and analysis, labor considerations, operational costs, etc. related to park-wide operations. Oversees the execution of new projects through the development of new venture or project operational systems and programs in partnership with local governmental authorities and regulations and UDX policies and procedures, including SOPs and Operational Performance Specifications.
- Strategically partners with Universal Creative and Operations teams to ensure operational feasibility during the design and development phases to focus on systems to support safe, efficient, and smooth Team Member and Guest experiences within all operational areas including and across Operations, Food & Beverage, Merchandise, and Entertainment for collaboration and feedback as New Venture projects are being explored and vetted.
- Manages New Venture project pre-opening budgets for FFE and other pre-opening budgets accordingly to ensure control of operational costs when resort is operating. Develops staffing plans and operating expense forecasting for the daily operations while designing programs and processes to control, enhance, and monitor the guest experience.
- Strategically partners with UDX key divisions including Finance, Human Resources, Marketing, BAIE, EHS, etc. on financial analysis and planning, budgets, sanitation and safety, training & development, staffing, and employee relations. Ensures strong cross-departmental input and collaboration for new technologies and designs of new venture projects in partnership with enhancements at existing parks and experiences.
- Experience in theme park or hospitality industry management in a senior leadership role with proven outcomes managing multiple disciplines including but not limited to operations, technical services, food/retail, entertainment, among other functions.
- Proven track record of collaborating with business partners, leveraging strong global business sensibility to drive successful outcomes.
- Ability to manage and influence a diverse range of stakeholders, ensuring alignment and cooperation.
- Strong verbal and written communication skills, capable of conveying complex information clearly and concisely.
- Ability to build and maintain relationships across various levels of the organization and with external partners.
- Proficiency in creating and delivering impactful presentations to diverse audiences.
- Expertise in planning, executing, and overseeing projects, ensuring they are completed on time and within budget.
- Ability to work effectively across multiple disciplines, fostering a collaborative environment.
- Strong ability to prioritize tasks and manage time efficiently to meet deadlines.
- Understanding of global business trends and practices, with the ability to apply this knowledge to local contexts.
- Ability to identify issues, analyze data, and develop innovative solutions.
- Competence in making informed decisions that align with organizational goals and strategies.
EXPERIENCE: 10 years of experience in a hospitality or operational environment is required; 5 years in theme park related work and management is required; or equivalent combination of education and experience. Extensive experience opening new attractions and/or parks a major plus.
Your talent, skills and experience will be rewarded with a competitive compensation package.
Universal is not accepting unsolicited assistance from search firms for this employment opportunity. All resumes submitted by search firms to any employee at Universal Destinations & Experiences via-email, the Internet or in any form and/or method without a valid written Statement of Work in place for this position from Universal Destinations & Experiences HR/Recruitment will be deemed the sole property of Universal Destinations & Experiences. No fee will be paid in the event the candidate is hired by Universal Destinations & Experiences as a result of the referral or through other means.
Universal Destinations & Experiences is an equal opportunity employer. Universal elements and all related indicia TM & © 2025 Universal Studios. All rights reserved. EOE
