Event Operations Manager - Chicago, United States - Northern Impact

Description

Job DescriptionJob Description

Overview

One of America's largest retailers is seeking a growth-oriented Operations Manager to join their premier in-house Events & Experiences team.

If you're seeking a fresh challenge within a vibrant work atmosphere and an entrepreneurial culture, we invite you to apply today. As an Event Operations Manager, you will play a crucial role in ensuring that all logistical aspects align with the event schedule. Your responsibilities will encompass overseeing warehouse materials, managing project schedules, and coordinating contracted teams to ensure the event's quality and experience meet all functional requirements. This role entails comprehensive responsibility for leading every facet of the event, including move-in logistics, floor plan layout, setup, tear-down, as well as the packing, unpacking, and coordination of event transportation. Join a collaborative team in shaping exceptional event experiences from start to finish

Responsibilities

Warehouse and Inventory Mastery:

• Take charge of organizing, auditing, and overseeing shipping/receiving operations at our off-campus warehouse, managing event fixtures, assets, and inventory.
• Efficiently oversee the loading and unloading of events staging, fixtures, signage, and miscellaneous items.
• Source and update production materials to maintain optimal inventory levels.

Floor Plans and Show Layout Expertise:

• Craft accurately scaled floor plans and diagrams, ensuring seamless functionality and flow for all events.
• Collaborate with venues to secure proper permitting and approval.
• Communicate and supervise floor plans, show layouts, and parking plans for events.

Comprehensive Event Logistics:

• Collaborate seamlessly with local dealership teams, fostering a strategic partnership for floor plan development, show preparation, and load-in plans, ensuring optimal local support for each project.
• Work closely with the other managers to create event logistics plans aligned with project goals.
• Supervise the loading and unloading of equipment and materials for setup and dismantling.
• Coordinate trailer transport and tracking.

Venue Set-Up and Tear-Down Leadership:

• Lead event set-up, including assembling structures, signs, display booths, and sourcing equipment, electrical power drops, and security.
• Oversee the dismantling and removal of events, clearing venues promptly.

Collaborative Partnership and Research:

• Collaborate with local dealership teams on floor plans, show prep, and load-in plans for seamless local support.
• Research and select event venues aligned with show requirements, offering input on individual builds (parking, site layout, operational requirements, outbuildings, etc.).

Cost-Effective Vendor Management:

• Manage agreements with labor providers and subcontractors, ensuring the lowest cost and highest quality of service.

Travel and Hands-On Approach:

• Frequent travel is required to set up and tear down events, ensuring a hands-on and proactive approach to event execution.

Requirements

Experience and Expertise:

• Demonstrate a stellar track record with 5+7 years of proven success in managing event activations, encompassing both set-up and tear-down, logistics, and on-the-road execution in a dynamic, fast-paced environment.

Travel and Flexibility:

• Embrace a travel-intensive role, committing to 60-65% of the year, including weekends and holidays. Thrive in a flexible travel schedule, demonstrating comfort in both indoor and outdoor event environments.

Physical Requirements:

• Successfully fulfill all physical demands of the job, including the ability to move or lift equipment, stand for extended periods, and perform tasks such as bending, lifting, squatting, and reaching.
• Experience in driving a fork-lift to load and unload materials is a bonus but not required

Technical Proficiency:

• Showcase proficiency in CAD or SketchUp, coupled with experience in laying out intricate floor plans.

Detail-Oriented and Results-Driven:

• Possess an obsessive attention to detail, coupled with self-driven, results-oriented work ethic. Maintain a positive outlook with a clear focus on quality and business efficiency.

Problem-Solving and Organization Skills:

• Demonstrate excellent problem-solving and organizational abilities, with an innate capacity to swiftly adapt to deviations in event plans.

Forward Planner and Reliability:

• Inherently a forward planner who critically assesses their own performance. Exhibit reliability, tolerance, and determination, thriving under pressure with tight deadlines.

Team Player with Communication Skills:

• Be a self-motivated team player, upholding professionalism, attention to detail, and exceptional oral and written communication skills.

Customer Service Excellence:

• Showcase strong customer service skills, maintaining a commitment to superior quality.

Project Management Proficiency:

• Exhibit the capacity to scope, manage, and execute multiple projects simultaneously.

Leadership and Adaptability:

• Prove a track record of leading by example with a positive attitude, demonstrating adaptability to new situations and challenges.

Join this dynamic team where your skills and enthusiasm will shape unparalleled event experiences