Umami 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 lifecycle

Sell + close — build relationships that convert. Corporate clients, VIPs, local partners—you don’t wait for leads, you create them

Run the pipeline — outreach, tours, tastings, proposals, contracts. Keep deals moving and details tight

Execute clean — oversee BEOs, timelines, and client comms. Partner with operations and culinary to deliver seamless events

Drive growth — repeat clients, premium upsells, stronger accounts

Own off-premise — catering + third-party platforms as part of your revenue strategy

Know your numbers — forecast, track, and report with clarity     

THIS ROLE IS A GREAT FIT IF…

• You’re as strong in sales as you are in execution
• You thrive in fast-paced, multi-unit environments
• You care about both the guest experience and the revenue behind it
• You bring energy, accountability, and follow-through

LET’S SET EXPECTATIONS

• This 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.

QUALIFICATIONS

• 7+ years in events, sales, or hospitality leadership
• Proven success driving private event and catering revenue
• Experience with Tripleseat, OpenTable, Tock, Eventbrite, EZCater. Third-party delivery platforms
• Strong organizational, communication, and client management skills
• Hands-on, ownership-driven mindset

IMPORTANT NOTE

Tripleseat experience in a restaurant environment is required.

WHY PEOPLE STICK AROUND

• Competitive compensation + performance-based earnings
• Dining discounts across all Umami Riot locations
• Growth that’s real
• A culture rooted in respect, creativity, and heart

Pay Range between $55,000 - $65,000 

EOE