Event Operations Manager, Chicago  

Ventures Endurance Mission

Produce world-class, community-centric events that engage, empower, and celebrate every participant.

Ventures Endurance Core Values

• Communicate Collaboratively
• Act with Authenticity
• Embrace Inclusivity
• Celebrate Achievements
• Exceed Expectations
• Nurture Passion
• Live with a Growth Mindset

The Event Operations Manager will be responsible for individual event components and leadership for events in an assigned portfolio in the Chicagoland area. Competitive applicants will have experience working at live athletic events. Some travel will be required, and preference is given to those who can adapt and work well with others in a fast-paced environment. This is a hybrid role requiring a minimum of 2 days per week at our office and warehouse in Buffalo Grove as well as occasional meetings and events in the city of Chicago and northern suburbs. The Event Operations Manager will support several events within the endurance space with a focus on traditional road races and long-distance events.

Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

• Support the planning, production, and operations for specific events from the time of contract execution through close out.
• Support in the marketing outreach with locally run clubs and crews, including in-person activations, maintaining a database of contacts, and development of event amenity program.
• Actively participate in the continual development and execution of specific events for long-term growth with a "participant first" mindset.
• Working with the Event Division Lead and/or Race Director to secure and document necessary permits, event timelines, public safety plans, event design, and parking plans required in the planning and execution of the event.
• Preparing and/or providing appropriate information, documents, and maps of areas of responsibility as required for permit submission to all government entities, private parties, and contractors.
• Establishing and maintaining effective working relationships with local authorities, contractors, and vendors to coordinate the production of events.
• Conducting vendor and contractor outreach, quote analysis, and negotiation in coordination with the Operations team and ensuring timely and accurate payment/tracking of vendors.
• Developing processes that contribute to the financial goals of the organization and overseeing established event budgets.
• Overseeing event course and site layout development and setup.
• Managing staff and contractors by effectively communicating event plans and timelines to ensure a successful event.
• Communicating with the Operations team to identify outstanding action items needed to produce the event and coordinating the successful execution of those items.
• Establishing the vision for existing events with the Operations team and Event Operations Director.
• Collaborating with Volunteer, Customer Service, and Marketing departments to ensure all event participants are provided with accurate messaging pre-, during, and post-event.
• Working with various department heads to meet deadlines and event and company goals, driving continued efficiency and communication between departments.
• Travel obligations, including weekend work, are approximately 50% throughout the year.
• Flexibility in time management to meet the needs of the event production timeline.

Required skills:

• 1+ year(s) event management experience.
• Proven attention to detail with the ability to multitask and meet deadlines.
• Ability to hold oneself accountable and an aptitude for prioritizing multiple projects.
• Exceptional verbal and written communication and customer service skills.
• Strong analytical mindset and approach to managing projects and problem-solving.
• Ability to forge interdepartmental relationships and build a strong team atmosphere.
• Proven leadership and management abilities.
• Ability to lift and/or carry up to 50 lbs.

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 identifying inefficiencies and cost-saving opportunities, while maintaining a quality workplace environment and product. The flexible and cooperative environment lends itself to a tight-knit community of employees working together to achieve success.

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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