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Exhibit Operations Manager

Cicero, IL, USA|Remote, Onsite

Job Overview

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Employment Type

Full-time
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Compensation

Salary
Range $105,000.00 - $109,000.00
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Work Schedule

Flexible
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Benefits

Medical insurance
Dental Insurance
Vision Insurance
Tuition Reimbursement
Paid parental leave
Life insurance
Disability insurance
Retirement with Company Match
Paid Time Off

Job Description

The Freeman Company is a globally recognized leader in live event services, renowned for designing and delivering unforgettable moments that create meaningful connections between audiences and clients. Through its Event & Exhibit Services division, the company excels in providing comprehensive solutions for live events including exhibits, corporate events, and trade shows. Known for its innovation, operational excellence, and customer-centric approach, The Freeman Company operates at the forefront of the event industry, continuously adapting to and setting trends for the future of live experiences. With a rich history and a commitment to quality, The Freeman Company supports a wide range of industries ensuring seamless event execution worldwide.

The Exhibit Operations Manager role within The Freeman Company’s Event & Exhibit Services team is a pivotal position focused on overseeing the on-site execution and operational coordination for specific cities and shows. This role is vital to ensuring that every aspect of exhibit operations runs smoothly from pre-planning through post-show analysis, guaranteeing an exceptional experience for corporate exhibit customers. The manager is responsible for efficiently utilizing labor resources, maintaining financial oversight of the exhibit operations cost center, and facilitating cross-functional collaboration among internal teams, field services, and customers. Based in McCook, IL, this hybrid role requires presence in-office and at show sites 2-3 days per week, offering a dynamic work environment that merges hands-on event management with strategic operational leadership.

The ideal candidate will bring 8+ years of experience in exhibit and event industries, supported by a bachelor’s degree or equivalent expertise. They will leverage their broad understanding of show site operations, local unions, and venue offerings to develop and maintain accurate schedules, manage third-party services, and ensure compliance with safety regulations. Additionally, the role includes training and developing the Exhibit Operations team, serving as a liaison between various departments, and supervising a team within the city to deliver best-in-class service and quality.

The Freeman Company provides a competitive salary range of $105,000 to $109,000, depending on experience, with eligibility for an annual bonus of up to 7.5% of the base salary. Employees enjoy comprehensive benefits including medical, dental, and vision insurance, tuition reimbursement, paid parental leave, life and disability insurance, retirement plans with company match, and paid time off. This role offers a significant opportunity for professionals eager to contribute to an innovative leader in the live events industry while enjoying a supportive and inclusive workplace that values diversity and inclusion.

Job Requirements

  • Bachelor’s degree preferred or equivalent experience in event industry roles
  • 8+ years of exhibit and/or event industry experience
  • Proven leadership and team management abilities
  • Excellent organizational and communication skills
  • Familiarity with financial oversight and labor management
  • Ability to work hybrid schedule with onsite responsibilities
  • Strong problem solving and decision making skills

Job Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s degree preferred or equivalent experience in event industry roles
  • 8+ years of exhibit and/or event industry experience
  • Strong leadership and team supervision skills
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
  • Proficiency with project management and scheduling tools
  • Knowledge of show site operations and local union jurisdictions
  • Ability to manage financial reporting and labor utilization
  • Demonstrated ability to provide high quality customer service
  • Experience with training and developing operational teams
  • Capability to work a hybrid schedule including onsite presence

Job Duties

  • Collaborates with the Field Service team on resource allocation needs for assigned city or show
  • Effectively manages on site assignments to ensure actual labor hours align with pre-show labor projections
  • Supports reporting and financial management efforts of exhibit operations cost center
  • Acts as a liaison between Growth/CSS and the customer when required
  • Supports and conducts the training and development efforts of the Exhibit Operations Team
  • Manages and tracks third party services for corporate account exhibit customers
  • Develops, updates and maintains accurate onsite production schedules
  • Exhibits a broad understanding of show site operations, venue offerings and local union jurisdictions
  • Collaborates cross functionally with internal departments to understand operational project scope
  • Prepares change order and post show reporting
  • Ensures compliance with all onsite safety regulations
  • Develops and maintains show files for year over year reference
  • Manages time tracking and utilization reporting in workfront
  • Provides best in class service and quality to customers
  • Supervises and leads a team within a given city
  • Performs other duties as assigned

Job Criteria

Experience

Expert Level (7+ years)


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