Operations Manager

Emerald is seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Event Operations Manager to lead the planning and execution of tradeshows and events. In this role, you’ll collaborate closely with internal teams and external partners to manage budgets, logistics, vendor relationships, and onsite operations with a strong focus on efficiency and delivering exceptional experiences.The Event Operations Manager collaborates extensively with internal teams and external partners to manage spending, contracts, onsite design, logistics, and show collateral. They ensure all stakeholders remain informed as plans evolve and oversee all preplanning and onsite operational aspects while maintaining strong relationships with partners and Emerald personnel.The ideal candidate is an organized, collaborative leader who thrives in a fast-paced environment and embodies Emerald’s values: people, leadership, agility, commitment, and excellence.This position will report out of our Alpharetta, GA office.RESPONSIBILITIES:Event Planning, Coordination, and EvaluationPlan and execute all assigned events and support others as neededDevelop show production timelines to ensure proper and timely coordination of all event componentsFacilitate pre-show and post-show event meetings and participate in weekly show team meetingsDevelop operations post-event assessment to ensure feedback document issues that inform future planningBudgeting & Financial ManagementDevelop and maintain event budgets and expenses, including identifying cost saving measures related to operating expensesManage budget revisions and monthly accrualsMaintain payment schedules and contractual depositsProcess vendor invoices for payment and reconcile credit card expenses in alignment with monthly deadlinesVendor Management & ContractingCreate RFPs for ancillary vendors, review and analyze proposals and provide recommendations to leadership for vendor selectionManage SOWs and schedules for core show partners, such as first aid, security and cleaningReview facility and hotel contracts as requiredFloorplan, Logistics & ProductionSubmit and monitor exhibit hall, registration, and special event floor plans.Coordinate all expo logistics, show design concepts, and signage with the General Service ContractorManage signage plans, graphic production, and onsite placement accuracy in collaboration with the Marketing and Creative teamsOversee the production of the exhibitor service manuals, which outline all pertinent information, rules, and regulations for the showManage booth approvals and rule enforcement with exhibitorsWork closely with Sales and Marketing to development Sponsorship opportunities and manage their fulfillment costs and logisticsPlan and manage lounges and specialty areas on the show floorCollaborate internally on housing requirements for staff, VIP, speakers, etc. as requiredActively manage show housing in coordination with the housing agency and work collaboratively to ensure attrition is avoidedConference Programs & Special EventsContract venues/spaces, manage logistics, and oversee execution of special eventsAssist with the conference program as directed, including supporting audio-visual contracting/coordination, meeting room setups, and related signage, etc.Onsite Execution & Show OperationsLead onsite operations across move-in, show staging, and move-out, ensuring timelines, safety standards, and service requirements are metManage onsite vendors and coordinate with venue teams and Emerald colleagues to problem solve in real-timeMaintain exhibitor, sponsor, and attendee experience standards through active floor management and problem resolutionEnsure compliance with facility regulations, union requirements, and emergency procedures throughout the eventDocument issues and opportunities for future events to be shared in post-event assessmentEnsure a positive and collaborative spirit is maintained in all interactions with colleagues, partners, and customersQUALIFICATIONS3+ years of experience in event operationsStrong understanding of event planning principles, requirements, and proceduresHigh emotional intelligence and calm under pressureAbility to stay highly organized and efficient while handling multiple shows with overlapping planning and execution cyclesProven experience leading a team and managing external partnersDemonstrated ability to create and manage event budgetsProficient in Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, Excel, Outlook; SmartSheet and A2Z experience a plusAbility to travel up to 50% including extended time on show site for move-in, show execution, and move-outAbout EmeraldAt Emerald, we strive to foster a diverse and inclusive community. We actively recruit and champion candidates who bring new perspectives from varied professional backgrounds and experiences, and we are intentional about ensuring a positive hiring experience for everyone. Our job postings don’t contain experience inflation, and most don’t require college degrees. Instead, they’re crafted to focus on outcomes and transferable experiences that are assessed in a structured interview process carried out by trained hiring teams.COMPENSATION & BENEFITSTarget Compensation: $70,000 - $80,000Please note that this range reflects a reasonable estimate of the target compensation for this position. This range may ultimately vary based on a candidate’s qualifications and may be higher where required by applicable law.We offer a competitive benefits package designed to strengthen our employees’ physical and mental health, including unlimited vacation for exempt employees, flexible working locations, 401(k) plan with a company match, medical/dental/vision coverage with inclusive provisions including transgender services and fertility benefits, parental and caregiver leave, dependent, commuter and FSA benefits, professional development programs like Toastmasters, and mental wellness tools.If you need accommodation in our application process or have questions about our posted salary range, please email our Talent Acquisition team at Careers@EmeraldX.com.About EmeraldEmerald’s talented and experienced teams grow our customers’ businesses 365 days a year with products that create connections, deliver content, and drive commerce. We produce over 140 annual events, create and deliver content through print and digital channels, and power commerce through our seamlessly integrated in-person and digital platforms and channels. For more information, please visit http://www.emeraldx.com.