Sr Manager, Exhibit Center Operations & Sales

Job Description

Job Description

DEPARTMENT: Space Sector Programs

REPORTS TO: Senior Director of Exhibit Center Operations & Sales

POSITION SUMMARY/OBJECTIVE:

The Senior Manager, Exhibit Center Operations & Sales supports strategic planning, exhibit sales, operational execution, floor management & compliance, and day-to-day management of the Space Foundation's Exhibit Center programs at all events featuring an Exhibit Hall. This position supports exhibit operations while driving exhibitor satisfaction, retention, and revenue growth for the annual Space Symposium and other assigned events. The Senior Manager serves as a key leader responsible for coordinating exhibit sales activities, operational logistics, customer relationships, vendor management, cross-functional collaboration, and on-site event execution to deliver a great experience for exhibitors, sponsors, corporate members, and attendees.

The Senior Manager, Exhibit Center Operations & Sales is a strategic leader who demonstrates sound judgment, strong leadership, and a proactive approach to supporting the evolving needs of the Exhibits team. This role will work cross-functionally with internal departments and external stakeholders, the Senior Manager provides leadership, strategic planning, and project management to deliver world-class events and experiences that align with the Space Foundation's mission and strategic objectives.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

The following briefly describes representative responsibilities of this job, but it is not intended to be a complete or all-inclusive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities that are required of this position:

• Increase revenue growth & sales objectives by leading exhibit sales, department financial goals, exhibitor retention, and upselling sponsorships and corporate memberships while delivering an exceptional customer experience.
• Achieves operational excellence by strategic planning and execution of a seamless, world-class Exhibit Center experience.
• Drives strategic improvement by continuously improving processes, leveraging technology, analyzing performance metrics, and implementing best practices to support the long-term growth of the Space Symposium & other events.
• Handles project management by overseeing the design and layout of the exhibition floor plan to maximize space efficiency and traffic flow for all Space Foundation events.
• Actively engages with both internal and external customers to strengthen existing relationships, identify new business opportunities, and cultivate long-term partnerships that enhance customer retention and organizational success.
• Provide operational leadership throughout the event lifecycle to include: assisting with the planning, coordination, and execution of all Exhibit Center activities.
• Oversees the development and implementation of the Exhibitor Kit, Exhibit booth design, coordinating exhibit hall setup and dismantle, managing move-in and move-out operations, and working closely with vendors and service partners on freight, drayage, and exhibitor services.
• Collaborate across departments to ensure all operational elements are executed efficiently, safely, and in accordance with Space Foundation standards, delivering a seamless, world-class experience for exhibitors, sponsors, corporate members, and attendees.
• Serve as the on-site lead during events, managing the production schedule, vendor & contractor relationships, facility staff, and resolving any real-time logistical issues.
• Author exhibitor service manuals and enforce all rules, codes, and safety protocols on the exhibit floor.
• Oversee the collection and execution of Certificate of Insurance, Crowd Management, ADA compliance, Emergency planning and venue regulations for each Space Foundation event featuring an exhibit hall.
• The Senior Manager of Exhibit Center Operations and Sales will manage and oversee a small Exhibit Operations team. Manage and Develop Staff, responsible for training and leading an exhibits team, providing guidance and professional development to help them grow in their roles.
• May perform other duties as assigned.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Oversees the work of assigned personnel by setting priorities, coaching for development, and managing performance reviews to achieve individual and team success in alignment with organizational goals.

BUDGETARY RESPONSIBILITIES:

• This position does not have budgetary or financial oversight responsibilities.

COMPETENCIES:

• Must possess a strong knowledge of exhibition industry standards and regulations.
• Must be a proven leader, driven, maintain a positive approach, be passionate about sales & providing outstanding customer service. Due to the volume of interaction with external customers, this position requires leadership, negotiation skills, poise, tact, discretion, and the ability to maintain confidentiality when needed. Prior experience providing customer support is critical to this position.
• Should be highly organized and develop a strong understanding of the Space Foundation's mission and sales objectives. They should be able to work independently and as a member of a team. Maintaining close communications with team members at remote locations will be key to this individual's success.
• Strong Sales skills and organization are essential to this position and knowledge of search engine optimization and HTML. Experience with any of the following is helpful: HubSpot, Capture Technologies, IMS System, and MapYour Show. The ability to learn new applications quickly is required.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Minimum 10 years of experience in exhibit center operations and trade show sales.
• Certified in Exhibition Management (CEM).
• IAEE member.
• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent in relevant discipline.
• Familiarity with the aerospace industry and/or related trade associations preferred.
• Multi-task oriented and able to work well under pressure and adhere to deadlines.
• Experience using CRM and registrations systems; familiarity with event tech platforms and floor plan software.
• Strong knowledge of exhibition industry standards and regulations.
• Experience with working within a budget and financials for a department.
• HubSpot & DocuSign proficient.
• Sales Professional with strong client-facing and communication skills.
• Project management software knowledge.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

This position involves extended periods of sitting or standing at a workstation and frequent use of a computer and other standard office equipment. Occasional movement, including walking, lifting, or carrying items up to 15 pounds, may be required. Reasonable accommodation will be made to support individuals with disabilities in performing essential job functions.

WORK ENVIRONMENT:

This role is primarily based in an office environment, with access to standard equipment and furnishings. The ability to travel both US and Internationally is required in this position. The employee will be required to participate in offsite meetings or events. The work environment is quiet to moderate in noise level. Reasonable accommodation will be made for individuals with disabilities.

JOB STATUS:

• FLSA Classification: This position is exempt according to guidelines of the Fair Labor Standards Act and, as such, an individual in this position is not eligible to receive overtime pay.
• Full- or Part-Time: This position is full-time in nature. An individual in this position will work a schedule consisting of 40+ hours per week.
• Work Location: This position’s primary work site is at Space Foundation headquarters in Colorado Springs, CO. The nature and responsibilities of this position are such that it is eligible for alternative worksite arrangements, such as working from home or telecommuting, on a consistent or recurring basis. Space Foundation’s current hybrid policy allows for up to two remote days per week.
• Regular Schedule: The position's usual business days are Monday through Friday, and its usual business hours are from 8:00 A.M. to 5:00 P.M. in the time zone in which it is located.

EEO STATEMENT:

Space Foundation is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status.