Event Operations Manager, Chicago Portfolio
Req #26238
Our current portfolio of media assets includes USA TODAY, local media organizations in 46 states in the U.S., and Newsquest, a wholly owned subsidiary operating in the United Kingdom with more than 120 local news media brands. Gannett also owns the digital marketing services companies UpCurve, Inc. and WordStream, Inc., which are marketed under the LOCALiQ brand, and runs the largest media-owned events business in the U.S., USA TODAY NETWORK Ventures.
To connect with us, visit www.gannett.com.
Event Operations Manager, Chicago Portfolio
The Event Operations Manager should have experience in event development and enhancing the participant experience to continue driving VE towards it mission to produce world-class events that engage, empower, and celebrate every participant. VE produces world class events with a hometown feel – ensuring that our event is a community staple while also providing an unparalleled participant experience.
The Event Operations Manager will be responsible for managing the Chicago Portfolio which includes 11 events annually.
The Event Operations Manager will be responsible for event and market development while also adhering to the event budget. To achieve the VE mission as well as financial goals, the Event Operations Manager will need to work with key departments within the organization including sales, event operations, and marketing.
Competitive applicants will have experience working live athletic events as well as prior experience cultivating an event to be a community partner. The role reports directly to the Director of Event Production.
Travel will be required, and preference is given to those who can adapt and work well with others in a fast-paced environment.
Ventures Endurance Mission
Produce world-class, community-centric events that engage, empower, and celebrate every participant.
Ventures Endurance Core Values
1.Communicate Collaboratively
2.Act with Authenticity
3.Embrace Inclusivity
4.Celebrate Achievements
5.Exceed Expectations
6.Nurture Passion
7.Live with a Growth Mindset
Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:
- Managing race related event logistics, negotiations, and budgets for specific events from the contract negotiation and venue procurement to post event close out.
- Working to secure and document all necessary permits, event timelines, public safety plans, event design, and parking plans required in the planning and execution of the event.
- Establishing the vision for existing events in conjunction with the VE marketing and operations teams, along with Senior Leadership.
- Oversee grass-roots marketing execution in conjunction with the marketing team.
- Developing processes that contribute to the financial goals of the organization.
- Working with various department heads to meet deadlines and event and company goals, driving continuing efficiency and communication between departments.
- Establishing and maintaining effective working relationships with third parties, public agencies and municipalities, state and Federal governments to coordinate the production of events.
- Overseeing event course and site layout development.
- Preparing and/or providing appropriate information, documents and maps of areas of responsibility for permit submission to all government entities, private parties, and contractors.
- Conducting vendor and contractor outreach, quote analysis and negotiation in coordination with the Operations team, and ensuring timely and accurate payment/tracking of vendors.
- Communicating with the Operations team to identify outstanding action items needed to produce the event and coordinating the successful execution of those items.
- Collaborating with Volunteer, Customer Service and Marketing departments to ensure all event participants are provided with accurate messaging pre, during and post event.
- Other duties as assigned (which may include assisting with other events in the VE portfolio)
- Travel obligations ~50% throughout the year.
Required Skills:
- Must exemplify all 7 core values outlined above
- 3 + years race and brand management experience
- Experience working and permitting events in the Chicagoland area is preferred, but not required
- Strong analytic skills (financial, planning, operational)
- Proven attention to detail with ability to multitask and meet deadlines
- Ability to hold oneself accountable and an aptitude for prioritizing multiple projects
- Exceptional verbal and written communication skills
- Strong analytical mindset and approach to managing projects and problem solving
- Ability to forge interdepartmental relationships and build a strong team atmosphere
- Technical course development skills
- Experience/work knowledge in the running community/space (niche markets) with the ability to critically review and further develop the community aspects of our events through relationships and partnerships.
Qualities required of all Ventures Endurance team members:
Ventures Endurance is a growth-oriented organization with successful team members possessing a strong work ethic and the ability to work individually and as a team. Solutions-oriented individuals with a hands-on approach to developing events, enhancing the participant experience, and growing the event as a community staple will succeed in this flexible and cooperative environment.
About Ventures
USA TODAY NETWORK Ventures creates impactful consumer engagements and experiences through world-class events, promotions, races and technology. We strive to exceed expectations, create unforgettable memories and drive value for our partners while leveraging our reputable institutions, including USA TODAY and more than 250 local media brands.
Our portfolio includes the largest high school sports recognition program in the country, USA TODAY High School Sports Awards, and other celebrated brands including the Official Community’s Choice Awards, American Influencer Awards, Rugged Maniac, Hot Chocolate Run, Blockbuster Bucket List sweepstakes, Amazing Teachers contest and more. Our events are managed with our proprietary ticketing and registration platform, EnMotive.
The events and promotions that we build inspire pride in local communities and connect local and national businesses with highly engaged audiences. We are an industry leader and drive results from coast to coast.
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Other details
- Job Family Events Marketing
- Job Function Marketing
- Pay Type Salary