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State of Arizona

DIRECTOR

Job Overview

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Employment Type

Full-time
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Compensation

Type:
Salary
Rate:
Range $145,000.00 - $185,000.00
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Work Schedule

Flexible
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Benefits

sick leave
Retirement Plan
Health Insurance
Dental Insurance
Vacation with 10 paid holidays per year
Life insurance
long-term disability insurance
optional short-term disability insurance
deferred compensation plans
supplemental life insurance

Job Description

The Arizona Exposition and State Fair Board (AESF) is an established organization with a historical lineage dating back to 1884. This board administers the Arizona State Fair, a flagship event that has grown into the largest single gathering in Arizona, attracting over 1.5 million attendees annually each fall. The Fair serves as a vibrant celebration of Arizona's rich culture and community, showcasing a diverse array of food, entertainment, and recreational activities that create lifelong memories for visitors. AESF operates one of the premier fairgrounds and multi-use event facilities in the state, hosting a variety of public and private events including... Show More

Job Requirements

  • Valid Arizona Driver's License
  • Ability to work extended hours and be available for emergent issues
  • Demonstrated leadership and management capability
  • Knowledge of State statutes, rules and policies governing fair operations
  • Prior experience managing large public events
  • Government Liquor License Class 5 or ability to obtain
  • Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with vendors, partners, and government leaders
  • Proficiency in financial oversight and budget management
  • Experience in personnel management and staff development
  • Strong communication and public relations skills

Job Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in business administration, public administration, event management, or related field
  • Minimum of five years of management experience in venue operations, fairgrounds, or public facility management with attendance over 500,000
  • Proven expertise in budgeting, staff supervision, contract management, and large event execution
  • Experience working with elected officials, public agencies, or governmental boards
  • Excellent interpersonal, strategic planning, and public communication skills
  • Familiarity with livestock competitions, 4-H/FFA programming, and agricultural events is highly desirable
  • Experience in contract negotiation and project management for capital improvement projects
  • Ability to make clear and concise verbal and written presentations
  • Ability to hold a Government Liquor License Class 5 for the Exposition and State Fair

Job Duties

  • Develop and implement plans, forecasts, policies, procedures for State property and facilities
  • Advise the Board of Directors on operational priorities, capital needs, and policy recommendations
  • Ensure successful partnerships with venue rentals operating pursuant to lease agreements
  • Lead, manage, and provide strategic direction for the Arizona Exposition and State Fair
  • Develop and maintain external relationships with State agencies
  • Maintain a strong team culture focused on service, innovation, and excellence
  • Oversee day-to-day operations and administrative activities including facility maintenance and capital projects
  • Plan, direct, and conduct the annual State Fair
  • Manage interim facility rental programs including trade shows, Coliseum events, sporting events, livestock shows, and cultural festivals
  • Develop and manage financial plans for marketing, capital improvements, operations, and partnerships
  • Create and oversee the agency budget to ensure fiscal responsibility
  • Represent the Board at the legislature as the designated Public Lobbyist
  • Adhere to Arizona State statutes, rules, and policies in all operations

Job Qualifications

Experience

Expert Level (7+ years)

Job Location

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