Head of Event Operations

Head of Events Operations

Position Summary

The Head of Event Operations is responsible for providing strategic leadership, operational oversight, and project management for the Events Team. This role manages a full-time staff of three plus seasonal contractors, and oversees departmental planning, budgeting, staff performance, partner & vendor engagement, and cross-functional collaboration to ensure successful execution of organizational initiatives and events. The Head of Event Operations serves as a key liaison between departments, stakeholders, and partners while driving continuous process improvement and organizational effectiveness.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Leadership and Strategic Planning

• Provide vision, direction, and guidance on current departmental processes, propose changes, and make operational improvements.

• Identify opportunities to improve efficiency, effectiveness, and deliverable deadlines within the Events Team.

• Develop and implement strategies that align departmental activities with organizational goals and objectives.

• Manage relationships with key partners, Head of Sales and Head of Attendee Experience, to align team activities with company objectives and key results.

• Lead departmental planning efforts and ensure successful execution of programs within the overall portfolio.

Budget Management and Financial Oversight

• Develop, manage, and monitor departmental budget.

• Ensure accurate financial planning, forecasting, and reporting for programs and events.

• Monitor budget adherence and recommend corrective actions as necessary.

Team Leadership and People Management

• Supervise, mentor, and develop department staff.

• Establish performance expectations and support professional development.

• Lead goal-setting processes, including the creation, tracking, and evaluation of individual and team goals.

• Monitor workload distribution and provide guidance to ensure team effectiveness and accountability.

Event and Program Operational Management

• Oversee project management activities for the Events Team, including:

• • Task management and assignment

• • Priority setting and resource allocatio

• • Monitoring team progress and project status

• • Ensuring timely completion of deliverables

• Foster widespread adoption of e-ticketing for all Gen Con events, including support for training, onboarding and continuous improvement to ticketing policies, software, and management tools. 

• Manage execution of event review and placement including dedicated and sponsor spaces. 

• Lead post-event reconciliation activities, including financial reviews, payment processing, and reporting. 

Resource Allocation and Logistics

• Oversee Game Master (GM) housing and badge allocation processes.

• Ensure equitable and efficient distribution of event resources.

• Coordinate with relevant teams to address logistical requirements and operational needs.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Foster collaboration between departments to ensure successful project outcomes.

• Facilitate communication, issue resolution, and alignment across stakeholders.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in business administration, Event Management, Project Management, Nonprofit Management, or a related field; equivalent experience may be considered.

• Minimum of 3-5 years of leadership or management experience.

• Experience managing budgets, projects, and cross-functional teams.

• Strong organizational, analytical, and problem-solving skills.

• Excellent interpersonal, communication, and stakeholder management abilities.

• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in event management, convention management, nonprofit organizations, or program administration.

• Project management certification or related professional credentials.

• Experience working with vendors, partners, and volunteer-driven organizations.

• Knowledge of budgeting, financial reporting, and performance measurement practices.

Supervisory Responsibilities

This position directly supervises department staff and may oversee volunteers, contractors, or project teams as assigned.

Working Conditions

Work may include extended hours during event planning and execution periods. Occasional travel and attendance at organizational events may be required.

Salary: Exempt, $80,000/annually, DOE