Director of Events

DescriptionUmami Riot was born from a simple idea: pair joyful hospitality with uncompromising craftsmanship. Founded by Chef Tim Cushman and sake expert Nancy Cushman, our restaurants celebrate bold flavor, precision, and a deep respect for Japanese foodways—translated through a distinctly Boston lens. At Umami Riot, we’re not here to follow the rules of hospitality, we’re here to rewrite them—with heart, craft, and fearless creativity.We’re looking for a Director of Events who owns the room before it’s even booked—driving revenue, building relationships, and turning every opportunity into something worth showing up for.The Gig (aka What You’ll Actually Be Doing)Own the revenue — group sales, private events, and catering across the portfolio. From prospecting to execution to repeat business, you run the full lifecycleSell + close — build relationships that convert. Corporate clients, VIPs, local partners—you don’t wait for leads, you create themRun the pipeline — outreach, tours, tastings, proposals, contracts. Keep deals moving and details tightExecute clean — oversee BEOs, timelines, and client comms. Partner with operations and culinary to deliver seamless eventsDrive growth — repeat clients, premium upsells, stronger accountsOwn off-premise — catering + third-party platforms as part of your revenue strategyKnow your numbers — forecast, track, and report with clarityTHIS ROLE IS A GREAT FIT IF…You’re as strong in sales as you are in executionYou thrive in fast-paced, multi-unit environmentsYou care about both the guest experience and the revenue behind itYou bring energy, accountability, and follow-throughLET’S SET EXPECTATIONSThis is a hands-on, revenue-driving role.You’ll be selling, planning, and executing—across multiple concepts, in real time.Success here is measured by pipeline strength, revenue growth, and execution quality.RequirementsQUALIFICATIONS7+ years in events, sales, or hospitality leadershipProven success driving private event and catering revenueExperience with Tripleseat, OpenTable, Tock, Eventbrite, EZCater. Third-party delivery platformsStrong organizational, communication, and client management skillsHands-on, ownership-driven mindsetIMPORTANT NOTETripleseat Experience In a Restaurant Environment Is Required.WHY PEOPLE STICK AROUNDCompetitive compensation + performance-based earningsDining discounts across all Umami Riot locationsGrowth that’s realA culture rooted in respect, creativity, and heartPay Range between $55,000 - $65,000EOE