Erin Barry
Gilbert,AZ
Summary
Dynamic venue and events operations leader with a proven track record in managing large-scale facilities, public-sector programs, and high-visibility events. Recognized for elevating operational standards, fostering team cohesion, and cultivating collaborative partnerships across departments and communities. Expertise in policy development, budgeting, and delivering exceptional guest experiences in fast-paced environments drives success and enhances organizational impact. Committed to leveraging innovative strategies to optimize operations and exceed stakeholder expectations.
Overview
26
26
years of professional experience
Work History
Special Event Coordinator, Tourism & Special Events
City of Scottsdale
01.2022 - Current
- Lead coordinator for the City’s Special Event permitting process, managing 200+ applications annually with full compliance to ordinance timelines and safety requirements.
- Primary liaison to Police, Fire, Transportation, and Risk Management to ensure safe, well-executed events.
- Maintain 100% on-time processing of applications within three business days.
- Streamlined permit workflow, reducing approval time by 15% and improving cross-department communication.
- Built strong relationships with civic groups, merchants, residents, and community partners to support event awareness and neighborhood engagement.
- Developed and executed three new holiday events that achieved record attendance.
- Managed inventory and procurement of special event equipment to support operational readiness.
Senior Recreation Leader, Parks & Recreation – Scottsdale Stadium
01.2019 - 01.2022
- Directed daily operations for a 12,000-capacity stadium, 10,000 sq. ft. events center, 6,000 sq. ft. clubhouse, and 20,000 sq. ft. of offices and suites.
- Oversaw major events including San Francisco Giants Spring Training, Pac-12 NCAA Baseball Tournament, trade shows, galas, and festivals.
- Supervised and developed four full-time coordinators and ~40 event-day staff.
- Improved work order fulfillment by 20% through enhanced communication with facilities teams.
- Managed RFPs, contracts, and billing; negotiated vendor agreements reducing operations costs by 15%.
- Led benchmarking research to modernize rental fees and policies across City venues.
- Supported launch of new venue management software and marketing initiatives for the events center.
General Manager (2017 – 2018)
Wild Horse Pass Motorsports Park
Chandler
01.2017 - 01.2018
- Directed all daily operations for a major motorsports and event venue, including budgeting, staffing, sponsorships, and guest experience.
- Supervised four department managers, 20 full-time staff, and 100+ event staff.
- Led marketing initiatives and fan engagement programs that revitalized venue reputation.
- Managed events from 200 to 20,000 attendees with a focus on safety and operational excellence.
- Increased concessions revenue by 35% in one fiscal year; oversaw $1M+ food & beverage program.
- Boosted track rentals and event dates by 30% through strategic partnerships and expanded offerings.
- Oversaw financial reporting, budget planning, and capital expenditure submissions.
Senior Manager, Event & Guest Services (2010 – 2013)
Chicagoland Speedway & Route 66 Raceway – Joliet, IL
01.2010 - 01.2013
- Managed hospitality and event budgets for a 65,000+ capacity venue hosting NASCAR events, festivals, and concerts.
- Oversaw sales negotiations, contract execution, menu development, event setup, and reconciliation.
- Increased revenue by 25% through expanded events and premium fan experiences.
- Delivered $1.5M in annual catering sales through sponsor hospitality programs.
- Served as lead liaison to Levy Sports & Entertainment for catering, concessions, and pricing.
- Managed sold-out suites and corporate hospitality generating $5M in revenue.
- Directed capital projects including Hospitality Village, Champions Park, and Turn 4 Club.
Corporate Hospitality Supervisor (2000 – 2004)
Chicagoland Speedway & Route 66 Raceway – Joliet, IL
01.2000 - 01.2004
- Managed hospitality and event budgets for a 65,000+ capacity venue hosting NASCAR events, festivals, and concerts.
- Oversaw sales negotiations, contract execution, menu development, event setup, and reconciliation.
- Increased revenue by 25% through expanded events and premium fan experiences.
- Delivered $1.5M in annual catering sales through sponsor hospitality programs.
- Served as lead liaison to Levy Sports & Entertainment for catering, concessions, and pricing.
- Managed sold-out suites and corporate hospitality generating $5M in revenue.
- Directed capital projects including Hospitality Village, Champions Park, and Turn 4 Club.
Education
Associate of Arts (A.A.) - Hospitality Management
Moraine Valley Community College
Skills
- Operations Leadership
- Event Planning & Execution
- Staff Training & Development
- Budget Oversight
- Contract Management
- Policy & Process Improvement
- Community Engagement
- Government & Venue Software (LIS, EventPro, Munis, NeoGov, CDS, ACTIVENet, SPUR)
Websites
Timeline
Special Event Coordinator, Tourism & Special Events
City of Scottsdale
01.2022 - Current
Senior Recreation Leader, Parks & Recreation – Scottsdale Stadium
01.2019 - 01.2022
General Manager (2017 – 2018)
Wild Horse Pass Motorsports Park
01.2017 - 01.2018
Senior Manager, Event & Guest Services (2010 – 2013)
Chicagoland Speedway & Route 66 Raceway – Joliet, IL
01.2010 - 01.2013
Corporate Hospitality Supervisor (2000 – 2004)
Chicagoland Speedway & Route 66 Raceway – Joliet, IL
01.2000 - 01.2004
Associate of Arts (A.A.) - Hospitality Management
Moraine Valley Community College