Manager, Executive & Board Operations to the President & CEO

The 500 Festival is a nationally recognized nonprofit organization producing nearly 50 annual events and programs that engage over 500,000 participants and generate more than $20 million in economic impact across Central Indiana. Founded in 1957, the organization celebrates the legacy of the Indianapolis 500 while delivering meaningful community impact through youth programming, health initiatives, and civic engagement.

The Manager, Executive & Board Operations serves as a strategic partner to the President & CEO, operating at the center of executive leadership, board governance, and organizational execution. This role goes beyond traditional administrative support, functioning as a trusted advisor, project manager, and liaison across internal teams, the Board of Directors, and external stakeholders.

This position is critical to ensuring alignment, efficiency, and excellence—particularly during the organization’s peak Month of May operations.

• Manage complex executive priorities, calendar, and communications on behalf of the President & CEO

• Prepare briefings, correspondence, and materials to support executive decision-making

• Act as a gatekeeper and liaison, ensuring strategic alignment across leadership

• Lead all coordination and execution of Board of Directors operations - including meetings

and communications

• Develop and manage board materials (agendas, minutes, handbooks, and governance documentation)

• Serve as the primary administrative point of contact for board members, delivering a high-touch, professional experience

• Coordinate cross-functional initiatives and organizational priorities in partnership with

senior leadership

• Support planning and execution of key events, meetings, and leadership speaking

engagements

• Drive operational efficiency and alignment across departments

• Support the 500 Festival Foundation through donor communications, acknowledgements, and board coordination

• Maintain donor and board records and contribute to stewardship strategies

• Assist with engagement efforts that strengthen donor and community relationships

• Oversee day-to-day office operations, vendor coordination, and organizational logistics

• Support internal meetings, staff functions, and workplace operations

• Maintain proficiency across Microsoft Office and internal systems

• Demonstrated experience supporting senior executives in a fast-paced, high-trust environment

• Strong organizational, communication, and project management skills

• Ability to manage sensitive information with discretion and professionalism

• Experience working with boards of directors or in nonprofit environments preferred

This role is essential to the success of the 500 Festival’s leadership and governance structure—ensuring seamless execution of priorities, exceptional board engagement, and operational excellence during one of Indiana’s most high-profile civic seasons.