Senior Director, Event Development & Operations
Req #19532
Our current portfolio of media assets includes USA TODAY, local media organizations in 46 states in the U.S., and Newsquest, a wholly owned subsidiary operating in the United Kingdom with more than 120 local news media brands. Gannett also owns the digital marketing services companies ReachLocal, Inc., UpCurve, Inc., and WordStream, Inc., which are marketed under the LOCALiQ brand, and runs the largest media-owned events business in the U.S., USA TODAY NETWORK Ventures.
To connect with us, visit www.gannett.com.
About Ventures
USA TODAY NETWORK Ventures creates impactful consumer engagements and experiences through world-class events, promotions, races and technology. We strive to exceed expectations, create unforgettable memories and drive value for our partners while leveraging our reputable institutions, including USA TODAY and more than 250 local media brands.
Our portfolio includes the largest high school sports recognition program in the country, USA TODAY High School Sports Awards, and other celebrated brands including the Official Community’s Choice Awards, American Influencer Awards, Rugged Maniac, Hot Chocolate 15k/5k, Blockbuster Bucket List sweepstakes, Amazing Teachers contest and more. Our events are managed with our proprietary ticketing and registration platform, EnMotive.
The events and promotions that we build inspire pride in local communities and connect local and national businesses with highly engaged audiences. We are an industry leader and drive results from coast to coast.
Senior Director, Event Development and Operations
Competitive applicants will have extensive experience working live athletic events. Travel will be required and preference is given to those who can adapt and work well with others in a fast-paced environment. The Senior Director will provide leadership and guidance in all matters relating to the management of several events/series in the traditional endurance space.
Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:
- Oversee and develop technical operations for Ventures Endurance portfolio events in conjunction with Vice President.
- Recognize and establish economies of scale across Ventures Endurance portfolio.
- Develop and implement standard operating practices across divisions and entire portfolio.
- Establish and execute the vision for existing events in conjunction with the Operations team.
- Developing processes that contribute to the financial goals of the organization and overseeing established event budgets.
- Managing members of the Event Operations Team and overseeing projects. Developing, empowering, and evaluating direct reports, exemplifying a reliable and communicative leader.
- Managing race related event logistics, negotiations, and budgets for specific events from the time the event is established through post event close out.
- Working to secure and document all necessary permits, event timelines, public safety plans, event design, and parking plans required in the planning and execution of the event.
- Preparing and/or providing appropriate information, documents, and maps of areas of responsibility for permit submission to all government entities, parties, and contractors.
- Establishing and maintaining effective working relationships with third parties, public agencies and municipalities, state, and federal governments to coordinate the production of events.
- Establishing the vision for existing events in conjunction with the Operations team, ensuring events are operating efficiently while maintaining a high brand standard.
- Working with various department heads to meet deadlines and event and company goals, driving continuing efficiency and communication between departments.
- Communicating with the Operations team to identify outstanding action items needed to produce the event and coordinating the successful execution of those items.
- Travel obligations ~60% throughout the year.
- Ability to lift 50 pounds.
Required Skills:
- 5+ years endurance leadership experience
- Proven attention to detail with ability to multitask and meet deadlines
- Ability to hold oneself accountable and an aptitude for prioritizing multiple projects
- Exceptional verbal and written communication skills
- Strong analytical mindset and approach to managing projects and problem solving
- Ability to forge interdepartmental relationships and build a strong team atmosphere
- Proven leadership and management abilities
- Technical course development skills
Qualities required of all Ventures Endurance team members:
Ventures Endurance is a growth-oriented organization with successful team members possessing a strong work ethic and the ability to work individually and as a team. Solutions-oriented individuals with a hands-on approach to identifying inefficiencies and cost saving opportunities, while maintaining a quality workplace environment and product. The flexible and cooperative environment lends itself to a tight knit community of employees working together to achieve success.
Other details
- Job Family Events Marketing
- Job Function Marketing
- Pay Type Salary