Director of Operations
Department: Operations
Reports To: Vice President
Employment Type: Part-time, seasonal, hybrid
Position Summary
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, and exhibitors, as well as 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 requires full availability to work in Phoenix, AZ, from May 31 - June 7, 2027.
Key Responsibilities
Event Operations & Logistics
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.
Vendor & Service Partner 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
Safety & Risk Management
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
Cross-Department Collaboration
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
Budget & Financial Management
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
On-Site Event Leadership
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
Qualifications
Requirements
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
Knowledge & Skills
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
Preferred Qualifications
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.
Please email your cover letter and resume to Vice President Sara Klick no later than July 31, 2026.
Email: sara.klick@square-egg.com