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Ada County

Director of Western Idaho Fair & Expo

Job Overview

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Employment Type

Full-time
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Compensation

Type:
Salary
Rate:
Exact $150,000.00
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Work Schedule

Flexible
Weekend Shifts
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Benefits

Medical insurance
Dental Insurance
Vision Insurance
Vacation leave
sick leave
Paid holidays
state retirement system participation
deferred compensation plan
401(k) Plan
Paid parental leave
Life insurance
wellness programs
Training opportunities
Career pathing

Job Description

Ada County is a prominent and dynamic local government entity serving the Treasure Valley region in Idaho. Known for its commitment to enhancing the community's quality of life, Ada County supports a workforce of over 2,000 employees who are dedicated to providing exceptional public services across diverse departments. One of its iconic assets is Expo Idaho, a vibrant, multi-use venue located in Garden City, Idaho. This venue has become a cornerstone of regional culture and entertainment, attracting hundreds of thousands of visitors annually. Expo Idaho is home to the Western Idaho Fair, a historic event held since 1967 that draws... Show More

Job Requirements

  • Bachelor’s degree from an accredited university in Business, Hospitality, or Event Management, Public Administration, or similar field preferred or equivalent experience
  • Five years of leadership experience in venue operations, fairgrounds, entertainment, or public facility management required, ten years preferred
  • Proven expertise in budgeting, staff supervision, contract management, and event execution
  • Experience working with elected officials, public agencies, or governmental boards
  • Excellent interpersonal, strategic planning, and public communication skills
  • Familiarity with 4-H/FFA programming, agriculture events, and regional tourism highly desirable
  • Knowledge of principles and practices to manage public business operations
  • Knowledge of personnel management, budgeting, financial management, bidding procedures, and contracting for fair or exposition operations
  • Knowledge of food service operations including Idaho liquor laws
  • Ability to design and execute public relations campaigns and community outreach
  • Knowledge of laws and regulations governing fair and exposition industry
  • Experience in project management for capital improvements, budgeting, and contract negotiations
  • Ability to select, develop, motivate and supervise staff
  • Ability to maintain effective relationships with vendors, business partners, first responders, and government leaders
  • Ability to use tact, ingenuity, and resourcefulness
  • Ability to make clear verbal and written presentations
  • Must hold or obtain a valid Idaho driver’s license

Job Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s degree in Business, Hospitality, Event Management, Public Administration, or related field preferred
  • Minimum five years leadership experience in venue operations, entertainment, fairgrounds, or public facility management
  • Proven expertise in budgeting, contract management, staff supervision, and event execution
  • Experience with elected officials, public agencies, or government boards
  • Excellent interpersonal, strategic planning, and public communication skills
  • Knowledge of 4-H/FFA programming, agriculture events, and regional tourism highly desirable
  • Skilled in business operations management in a public environment
  • Understanding of personnel management, budgeting, contract procedures in fair or exposition management
  • Knowledge of food service operations and Idaho liquor laws
  • Ability to design and execute PR campaigns and community outreach
  • Understanding of laws and practices in fair and exposition industry
  • Project management experience with capital improvements, budget and contract negotiation
  • Ability to lead, motivate, and supervise diverse teams
  • Proven ability to establish effective working relationships with vendors and government leaders
  • Strong tact, ingenuity, and resourcefulness
  • Excellent verbal and written presentation skills

Job Duties

  • Develop and implement strategic and operational plans for Expo Idaho
  • Advise Ada County Board of Commissioners on priorities and policy
  • Serve as public representative for Expo Idaho
  • Ensure successful partnerships and lease operations
  • Coordinate with Ada County departments and leadership
  • Oversee day-to-day facility operations and event production
  • Manage Western Idaho Fair production including safety and community engagement
  • Negotiate and facilitate year-round event scheduling
  • Conduct property and facility assessments for county needs
  • Collaborate with Boise Professional Soccer on facility maintenance and safety
  • Manage enterprise fund and self-funded budget for all Expo operations
  • Develop financial plans for marketing, capital improvements, and partnerships
  • Administer annual budget and present to advisory and commission boards
  • Generate revenue through events, sponsorships, and rentals
  • Lead staff management, training, and development
  • Establish goals and performance metrics for staff
  • Strengthen community partnerships and oversee marketing efforts
  • Foster relationships for sponsorship and financial support
  • Compile reports and maintain department records
  • Perform additional related duties as assigned

Job Qualifications

Experience

Expert Level (7+ years)

Job Location