Director of Operations

Department: Operations

Reports To: Vice President

Employment Type: Part-time, seasonal, hybrid

The Director of Operations is responsible for planning, managing, and executing all operational aspects of a large-scale pop culture convention. This role oversees venue logistics, safety, service partners, exhibitors, and on-site event execution to ensure an exceptional experience for guests, exhibitors, partners, and attendees.

The ideal candidate is an experienced event professional with strong leadership skills, exceptional organizational abilities, and a proven track record managing complex, high-attendance live events. This position is mostly remote but does require full availability to work in Phoenix, AZ from May 31 - June 7, 2027.

• Develop and execute comprehensive operational plans for all convention activities
• Manage venue logistics, including load-in/load-out schedules, floor plans, storage areas, and operational workflows
• Coordinate with the convention center and external partners to ensure seamless execution
• Establish and maintain operational timelines and production schedules
• Lead and manage multiple part-time Operations Managers, including Exhibitor, Gaming Hall Exhibitor, Logistics, Load In/Out, and Line Management.

• Manage relationships with security providers, decorators, parking locations, internal Convention Center partners, and other contractors
• Negotiate service agreements and ensure contractual obligations are met
• Monitor vendor performance before, during, and after events

• Develop and implement emergency response plans and operational procedures
• Coordinate with local law enforcement, fire departments, medical teams, and venue security personnel
• Ensure compliance with all local, state, and federal regulations
• Conduct operational risk assessments and recommend mitigation strategies

• Partner with Events & Activities, Talent Relations, Marketing, Technology, and Attendee Relations teams to support event objectives
• Ensure the other departments’ operational needs are fulfilled in all aspects of event planning

• Monitor expenses and identify opportunities for cost savings and operational efficiencies
• Review and approve vendor invoices and service agreements
• Support long-term operational growth and scalability initiatives

• Serve as a key member of the event command team during convention operations
• Resolve operational challenges quickly and effectively in high-pressure environments
• Oversee daily event operations, including opening and closing procedures
• Lead post-event evaluations and implement continuous improvement initiatives

• Bachelor's degree in Event Management, Business Administration, Hospitality, or a related field, or equivalent professional experience
• Minimum of 3 years of experience managing large-scale live events, conventions, festivals, trade shows, or entertainment properties 
• Minimum of 3 years of leadership experience managing teams and operational budgets
• Experience working with venues, vendors, contractors, and public safety agencies
• Knowledge of Google Workspace
• Knowledge of AutoCAD
• A Windows or Mac device capable of utilizing AutoCAD LT 

• Strong project management and organizational abilities
• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in fast-paced environments
• Experience creating event floor plans, production schedules, and operational documentation
• Strong budgeting and financial management skills
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office, project management software, and event management platforms

• Experience working in the pop culture, comic convention, gaming, anime, or entertainment industries
• Knowledge of crowd management, security planning, and emergency preparedness
• Experience managing events with attendance exceeding 50,000

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods during the event
• Ability to lift up to 30 pounds occasionally
• Willingness to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as required by event schedules
• Ability to travel for event planning, site visits, and convention operations

The hourly rate starts at $25 DOE, along with a complimentary hotel room and hotel parking or economy airfare. 

You will need to complete a W-4 and I-9. You must be at least 18 years old. Phoenix Fan Fusion, LLC and its parent company Square Egg Entertainment, Inc are an equal opportunity employer.