Director, Trade Shows

Sarasota, FL, Hybrid (commutable distance from HQ), full-time, Monday through Friday, with occasional weekend travel required.Position SummaryThe Certified Collectibles Group is seeking a strategic and results-oriented Director of Trade Shows to lead our global events and trade show portfolio across all of its affiliated companies. This role is responsible for defining and executing a best-in-class Trade Show strategy that enhances customer experience and engagement, strengthens brand presence, and drives measurable business growth.The Director of Trade Shows will oversee a high-volume domestic and international trade show portfolio, lead a cross-functional team, and ensure operational excellence across all phases of event execution - from planning and logistics to performance analytics and ROI optimization.In this role, you will be responsible for:Strategic Leadership & Portfolio ManagementDevelop and execute a comprehensive global trade show and experiential marketing strategy aligned with organizational and brand objectivesOversee a portfolio of 60–80+ trade shows annually, prioritizing investments based on business impact, audience reach, and ROILead annual and multi-year planning cycles, including budget forecasting, resource allocation, and performance benchmarksIdentify new opportunities for market expansion and partnershipsOperational Excellence & ExecutionEstablish scalable systems and processes to ensure consistent, high-quality event execution across all showsOversee end-to-end event lifecycle: pre-show planning, on-site operations, and post-show reporting and analysisDirect all logistics, including travel (airfare, accommodations, transportation), shipment of materials, and asset managementEnsure seamless booth operations, including design, staffing models, and customer engagement strategiesAct as executive escalation point for on-site issues, ensuring rapid problem resolution and brand integrityFinancial Analysis & Vendor ManagementOwn and manage the trade show budget, ensuring cost discipline and maximizing ROILead vendor sourcing, contract negotiation, and relationship management with show organizers, venues, and suppliersOversee financial processes, including purchase orders, invoice approvals, and third-party paymentsContinuously evaluate cost structures and negotiate efficiencies at scaleTeam Leadership & DevelopmentLead, coach, and scale a team of trade show managers, coordinators, and representativesEstablish clear performance goals, training programs, and career development pathwaysBuild a high-performance culture focused on accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvementDevelop staffing models to support increasing event complexity and global expansionCross-Functional CollaborationPartner with Marketing to integrate trade shows into broader campaign strategies, including pre-event outreach, on-site activation, and post-event follow-upAlign closely with Sales and Business Verticals to ensure events support revenue generation growthCollaborate with Brand and Creative teams to evolve booth design, messaging, and customer experienceAnalytics, Insights & Continuous ImprovementDefine and track KPIs, including customer engagement, operational efficiency, and financial returnBuild reporting frameworks to provide actionable insights and executive-level visibility into event performanceLeverage data to continuously refine trade show strategyWhat Will Help You Succeed In This Role8–10+ years of experience in trade show management, experiential marketing, or event leadershipProven success managing large-scale, high-volume event portfolios with significant budget responsibilityStrong strategic thinking with the ability to translate vision into scalable executionDemonstrated experience leading and developing high-performing teamsExpertise in vendor negotiation, contract management, and logistics operationsExceptional communication, stakeholder management, and cross-functional collaboration skillsHighly organized, process-oriented, and adaptable in a fast-paced environmentStrong analytical mindset with experience measuring and optimizing ROIWillingness to travel frequently (domestic and limited international)About UsThe Certified Collectibles Group is a global leader in the fast-growing collectibles market. Its companies - NGC, PMG, CGC, JSA, and ASG — provide third-party authentication and grading services that protect the integrity of the hobby and empower confident buying and selling decisions. Since 1987, more than 110 million coins, banknotes, comic books, magazines, trading cards, sports cards, video games, stamps, and autographs have been certified. Trusted by collectors and dealers worldwide, the Certified Collectibles Group has locations in the United States, United Kingdom, Germany, United Arab Emirates, and China.Why join us:Competitive compensation commensurate with experienceComprehensive benefits including Medical, Vision, and Dental InsurancePTO & Paid Holidays401(k) retirement planWe are an equal opportunity employer and are committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse workplace. We do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, national origin, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic as outlined by federal, state, or local laws. We believe that diversity strengthens our team and drives innovation, and we welcome candidates from all backgrounds to apply.