Sr Event Operations Manager - Event Production

USA TODAY Co., Inc. is a diversified media company dedicated to empowering and enriching communities. The Sr. Event Operations Manager is responsible for leading the planning, execution, and long-term success of assigned endurance events, ensuring a consistent and high-quality experience that reflects brand standards while engaging with local communities.

Responsibilities:

• Lead the planning, production, and execution of assigned events from early planning through post-event closeout
• Oversee development of event timelines, site plans, course layouts, public safety plans, and parking/traffic plans
• Secure, prepare, and submit all required permits and approvals in coordination with municipalities, agencies, and partners
• Manage vendor and contractor outreach, quote analysis, negotiation, and performance before, during, and after events
• Oversee onsite execution including load-in/load-out, course operations, site management, and vendor coordination
• Manage event budgets and expenses in alignment with organizational financial goals
• Serve in an on-site leadership role (including Race Director or operational command roles as assigned)
• Guide and uphold the brand vision for assigned events, ensuring consistency in participant experience, presentation, and execution
• Serve as a key voice of the event brand within each market, balancing national brand standards with local market needs
• Build and maintain strong relationships with community partners, municipalities, and local stakeholders
• Identify opportunities to enhance community engagement, local partnerships, and market-specific initiatives that strengthen the event brand
• Collaborate closely with Marketing, Partnerships, Customer Service, and Volunteer teams to ensure aligned messaging and execution across all participant touchpoints
• Represent the event and brand professionally in external meetings, site visits, and public-facing interactions
• Provide leadership, mentorship, and support to other Race Directors, Event Operations Managers, and onsite staff
• Drive clear communication, accountability, and alignment across cross-functional teams
• Support portfolio-level consistency while allowing flexibility for market-specific execution
• Contribute to the ongoing evolution of operational standards, best practices, and event playbooks

Requirements:

• 5+ years of experience in event operations, endurance events, or large-scale live event production
• Demonstrated experience leading complex events with multiple stakeholders and workstreams
• Strong understanding of permitting, public safety coordination, course operations, and live event logistics
• Proven ability to represent an event or brand professionally with municipalities, partners, and community stakeholders
• Excellent organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills
• Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively across teams
• Willingness and ability to travel extensively, including weekends
• Valid driver's license required