• Oversee day-to-day operations of Fair Park facilities, ensuring safe, efficient, and customer-focused service.
• Lead planning, coordination, and execution of fairs, exhibits, rentals, and promotional events, including the annual Washington County Fair.
• Maintain an active and profitable event calendar aligned with community engagement and revenue goals.
• Provide hands-on leadership and problem-solving during high-volume events and urgent operational situations.

• Partner with the Board of Directors to develop and implement business and strategic plans aligned with the organization’s mission.
• Translate long-range goals into actionable operational plans with measurable outcomes.
• Provide creative solutions and sound judgment throughout project lifecycles, from concept through completion.

• Direct facility staff and ensure strong internal communication, accountability, and performance.
• Recruit, develop, supervise, and motivate a high-performing operations and events team.
• Conduct regular staff meetings, training sessions, and performance evaluations.
• Ensure staffing levels and structures support both major events and year-round operations.
• Establish and recommend operational policies for Board adoption.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for operational updates, staffing needs, and event planning progress.

• Develop, manage, and administer operating and event budgets.
• Oversee procurement, vendor contracts, and revenue-generating partnerships.
• Support grant writing and funding proposals to strengthen programs and facilities.
• Assist with capital improvement planning and facility project requests.
• Build and grow corporate and business relationships.
• Lead fundraising efforts, including event sponsorships and corporate donations.
• Recommend annual operating and capital budgets, programs of work, and accountability assignments to the Board.
• Oversee the development and administration of the facilities plan.
• Routinely report to the Board on financial performance and progress toward strategic goals.
• Research, draft, and submit grant proposals to secure funding for the organization.

• 5–8 years of experience in operations, event management, project management, marketing, or public relations.
• Experience with fairgrounds, expo centers, convention centers, or large-scale event venues strongly preferred.
• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Public Administration, Marketing, or a related field preferred.
• Strong leadership presence with the ability to work hands-on in a fast-paced, event-driven environment.
• Excellent communication, collaboration, and relationship-building skills with diverse stakeholders.
• Proven organizational, budgeting, and problem-solving abilities.
• Exceptional attention to detail and organizational skills.

• Fair, festival, or large-scale public event industry experience
• MBA, CFE (Certified Fair Executive), or related professional credentials
• Experience working with government entities or public-private partnerships
• Knowledge of agriculture, exposition sales, land management, or facility operations
• Crisis management and public communication experience

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