Job Description

Job Description

The Director of Operations is responsible for overseeing the full lifecycle of trade show exhibit production, logistics, and on-site execution. This role ensures that projects are delivered on time, within budget, and to the highest quality standards. The Director of Operations will lead cross-functional teams, optimize operational processes, and serve as a key liaison between clients, internal departments, and external vendors.

Key Responsibilities

Operational Leadership

• Develop, implement, and refine operational strategies to support company goals and growth.
• Oversee day-to-day operations across production, logistics, warehouse, and show site activities.
• Establish and enforce standard operating procedures for efficiency and consistency.

Project & Event Management

• Oversee multiple trade show projects simultaneously, from planning to dismantle.
• Manage timelines, production schedules, labor, and resources to ensure flawless execution.
• Serve as the escalation point for operational challenges, resolving issues quickly and effectively.

Team Management

• Lead, mentor, and develop project managers, warehouse staff, logistics teams, and contractors.
• Foster collaboration between sales, design, fabrication, and client services teams.
• Implement performance metrics and ensure accountability across departments.

Financial Oversight

• Prepare and manage budgets for projects and overall operations.
• Track expenses, monitor margins, and ensure profitability.
• Negotiate vendor and subcontractor contracts to control costs while maintaining quality.

Vendor & Client Relations

• Build and maintain strong relationships with vendors, union labor partners, and show contractors.
• Act as a high-level point of contact for clients, ensuring expectations are met and exceeded.
• Represent the company at industry events and develop relationships with key stakeholders.

Compliance & Safety

• Ensure compliance with trade show regulations, labor rules, and safety standards.
• Implement risk management practices to minimize operational disruptions.

Qualifications

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Operations Management, Event Management, or related field (or equivalent experience).
• Experience: 7+ years in operations or project management, preferably in the trade show, events, or exhibit fabrication industry.
• Proven track record of managing large-scale projects with multiple stakeholders.
• Experience leading teams of diverse skill sets, including fabrication, logistics, and show site crews.

Skills & Competencies

• Strong leadership and team management skills.
• Excellent organizational and multitasking abilities.
• Deep knowledge of trade show logistics (drayage, electrical, rigging, freight, installation/dismantle).
• Financial acumen with experience in budget planning and cost control.
• Proficiency in project management software and inventory control systems.
• Exceptional communication, negotiation, and client service skills.
• Ability to remain calm and decisive under pressure.

Personal Attributes

• Strategic thinker with a hands-on, problem-solving mindset.
• Detail-oriented while maintaining big-picture perspective.
• Adaptable and flexible in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment.
• Collaborative, with a focus on building strong internal and external relationships.

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive salary based on experience and performance.

• Comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, PTO, and 401(k).

• Career growth within a company focused on innovation, excellence, and long-term relationships.

Our Core Values

FAIR. INTEGRITY. INNOVATION. RIDE FOR THE BRAND.

• At Structure Exhibits, we don’t just build exhibits — we build trust. Every member of our team takes pride in delivering creative, cost-effective solutions that make our clients look their best while keeping our operations sharp, efficient, and profitable.

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