Sr. Director, Event Retail Planning & Operations

GENERAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:

Event Planning Responsibilities:

• Manage/participate in all aspects of event planning, including site visits, developing financial models, generating CAD layouts, defining operational plans, generating graphics plans, developing production schedules and staffing plans, and working with internal and external teams to secure selling infrastructure including fixtures, POS, tents, etc.
• Facilitate meetings with event partners, buyers/merchandising, marketing/creative as well as internal and external HR business partners.
• Serve as a main operational point of contact for clients and other entities as necessary to plan and execute these special events and deliver a stellar client experience from conception through post-event review.
• Work with internal recruiting partners and/or staffing agencies to ensure Fanatics is receiving enthusiastic and hardworking event staff
• Establish protocols and procedures.  Train and supervise event staff.
• Ensure Fanatics is compliant with event standards (security/law, fire, medical, etc.) 
• Work directly with our warehouse(s) to ensure efficient and accurate delivery of merchandise and selling infrastructure to events.
   
• Event Execution Responsibilities:
• Manage on-site preparations, production, and event breakdown; and ensure consistent, high-level service throughout all phases.
• Meet strict deadlines and stay within expense budgets, while meeting or exceeding budgeted sales and profits for overall event.
• Assign duties for traveling Fanatics events department employees.
• Troubleshoot any issues that arise on event day.
• Build client relationships that enable future growth.
• Build relationships with vendors, venues, and other industry contacts while crafting and implementing the creative and logistical aspects of the event.
• Remain current (or ahead of the curve) with trends in event planning, design, and production, and proactively identify and solve operational challenges

Post Event Responsibilities:

• Work with the business management team to prepare and present executive and detail-level reports for both client and internal use to summarize event performance, identify areas of success as well as areas for opportunity.
• Work with finance and accounting teams to analyze profit/loss statements for each event and work with management team on potential recommendations for improvements/changes.

Knowledge, Skills & Experience:

• 8+ years of previous consumer-facing event management/hospitality/retail experience and proven success.
• Service-oriented style with professional presentations skills and a demonstrated ability to effectively interact with people.
• Experience in building and maintaining positive business relationships
• High-energy with an entrepreneurial spirit, effective in providing motivational leadership and exceptional customer service.
• Visual merchandising experience & skills a plus
• Clear concise written and verbal communication skills
• Excellent organizational skills, including multi-tasking, time management, and attention to detail
• Ability to handle pressure and make good decisions quickly.
• Be proficient in Excel and PowerPoint. Experience with CAD programs such as AutoCAD, SketchUp, Revit or Bluebeam a plus.
• Understanding of various retail executions, technologies and KPI's
• Ability to analyze data, and develop strategies to address opportunities
• Strong analytical, conceptual, and technical skills (Excel, Access, Zoom, PowerPoint, Adobe, Outlook)
• Travel (including overnight stays) will be required as needed to support events (60-70% travel)