Event Operations Manager

Role Overview

The Event Operations Manager oversees the daily planning and execution of temporary setup, event setup, and event breakdown work within the Buildings and Grounds function. Reporting to the Director of B&G - Event Operations, this role keeps setup logistics, temporary infrastructure, labor coordination, equipment readiness, and onsite support aligned so events are delivered safely, on time, and in compliance with required standards. The position works closely with internal teams, contractors, vendors, volunteers, and venue partners to turn approved plans into smooth on-the-ground execution.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead all temporary setup, event setup, and breakdown activities for Buildings and Grounds operations, ensuring work follows approved schedules, safety expectations, and operational needs.
• Plan and coordinate the scheduling and deployment of temporary labor, seasonal staff, contractors, volunteers, and other support resources involved in setup operations.
• Oversee the ordering, delivery, staging, distribution, and recovery of equipment, materials, supplies, and consumables needed for temporary event infrastructure.
• Put departmental setup plans and operating procedures into action so grounds, event spaces, and support areas are prepared to the required layout and service standards.
• Track setup progress across venues and grounds, identify issues early, and resolve problems to keep preparation on schedule and ready for opening.
• Work with vendors and service providers supplying tents, fencing, barricades, rentals, and related temporary infrastructure services.
• Carry out regular site checks before, during, and after setup to confirm readiness, correct placement of equipment, operational compliance, and safety adherence.
• Support permits and compliance activities for temporary structures and setup-related work, including coordination for tent permits and other operational approvals.
• Partner with Exhibits and Attractions, Event Services, and other internal groups to ensure setup is properly coordinated, resourced, and aligned with event requirements.
• Monitor labor hours, contractor services, material usage, and spend, while assisting with purchasing, vendor quotations, and cost-control efforts.
• Act as the operational contact for setup-related issues during preparation and event execution, working with internal teams, venue staff, and outside partners to resolve concerns promptly.
• Serve as Management Coordinator for assigned committees, including responsibility for budgets and other committee-related operational matters.

Supervisory Scope

This position includes supervision of full-time, part-time, seasonal, and temporary staff. Duties include training team members, organizing schedules, assigning daily tasks, checking performance, enforcing operational and safety standards, handling employee concerns, and supporting issue resolution in line with organizational policies and applicable laws.

Qualifications

To succeed in this role, the candidate must be able to perform all essential duties satisfactorily, with reasonable accommodation available for qualified individuals with disabilities.

Education and Experience

A bachelor's degree from a four-year college or university is required, along with two to four years of operational experience.

Physical Requirements

The role may involve sitting, standing, climbing, balancing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, or crawling. During the Show, frequent walking across the grounds may be necessary. The employee may need to lift or move 40 pounds or more, stay on their feet for up to 10 hours during a shift, and, during setup and the Show, remain on their feet for as long as 16 hours per day. Close vision, peripheral vision, and the ability to adjust focus are needed. Extended working hours are expected, especially during peak periods.

Work Environment

The work setting may involve exposure to fumes or airborne particles, and the noise level is typically very loud.