Event Operations Manager

Event Operations Manager 

The Association of Equipment Manufacturers (AEM) is hiring an Event Operations Manager! We are looking to connect with service-oriented and self-motivated professionals who enjoy variety and challenges in a fast-paced environment to join our Exhibitions and Event Operations team. This role involves supporting our three major industry trade shows.  

Responsibilities: 

Support Trade Show Operations & Planning 

• Assist in developing and implementing operational work plans to achieve show space and satisfaction goals.  

• Coordinate logistics including, but not limited to, transportation, security, freight, tents/structures, electric/utilities, rule refinement, and security/crisis management coordination. 

• Provide flexible operational support for multiple events, adapting responsibilities to each show’s unique requirements.  

•  Onsite execution of operations to ensure safety and efficient move in/out, adherence to show rules, and management of those changing dynamics that live events present.   

• Manage trade show operations inbox, addressing exhibitor inquiries, approving floor plans, and resolving issues.  

Collaborate on Floor Plan Strategy & Space Draw Management  

• Support assessment of facility capacity, historical data, and exhibitor orders to optimize floor plan utilization.  

• Assist in evaluating product concentration categories, traffic flow, and exhibitor access.  

• Contribute to space draw planning based on exhibitor priority points to meet goals of net square feet, revenue, and satisfaction objectives. 

Support Venue and Vendor Selection & Management  

• Assist in researching and evaluating venues aligned with event objectives and growth targets.  

• Gather input from internal teams for RFP requirements, compile feedback, and support contract negotiations to ensure alignment with organizational goals. 

• Research and source vendors for event operational services.  

• Manage vendor relationships to ensure contractual delivery and onsite execution for services such as transportation, floor managers, utilities, cleaning, and security. 

Budget Management  

• Support in developing and monitoring trade show budgets, including re-forecasting and expense tracking.  

• Oversee final billing reconciliation and facilitate timely invoice processing. 

Requirements:   

A successful candidate will hold an associate degree or higher in Event Management, Project Management or Organizational Management and/or 3-6 years’ relevant experience in event operations, event planning, hospitality, and/or trade shows. The ideal candidate will also demonstrate: 

• Deep understanding of large-scale events.  

• Agile mindset and adaptable to changing environments with strong problem-solving skills 

• The ability to work independently while collaborating as part of a team.  

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills. 

• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills. 

• Outstanding customer service skills. 

• Ability to travel up to 10-15%, including outside business hours for trade shows and occasional networking events. 

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office.   

About AEM:      

AEM is the leading organization in North America advancing construction and agriculture equipment manufacturers and their value chain partners in the global marketplace. In enabling growth together, AEM and its members build momentum for the equipment manufacturing industry and the markets it serves.    

We offer a competitive salary and an outstanding benefits package including: 

• Health, dental, and vision insurance 

• 401(k) with company match 

• Life insurance and long-term disability 

• 18 PTO days in your first full calendar year 

• 10 paid holidays, and two floating holidays 

Our team is passionate about what we do; our office is modern and welcoming, and we’re proud to be involved in a variety of community service initiatives.