Floral Exhibits Operations Manager

Job Title: Floral Exhibits Operations Manager 

Department: Floral Exhibits 

Classification: Salary/Exempt/Onsite

Salary: $75,000 to $85,000

Position Overview | The Big Picture 

The Floral Exhibits Operations Manager is responsible for leading the operations and strategic initiatives of Floral Exhibits. This position involves managing staff, building client relationships, overseeing hands-on trade show installations, and ensuring operational efficiency. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in leadership and communication skills and an understanding of trade shows/special events.  

Leadership & Team Management: 

• Interview, hire, and train department staff.
• Manage performance and evaluate staff.
• Oversaw staff scheduling to ensure proper coverage for trade shows and client events.

Sales & Business Development: 

• Build relationships within the industry and with clients of Floral Exhibits and other brands while fostering new client relationships.
• Develop and implement long- and short-term business strategies in marketing, sales, production, and operations.
• Set tactical, operational, and financial goals in alignment with company plans.
• Develop operational improvements and efficiencies.

Operations & Production Management: 

• Provide recommendations regarding capital requests, operational changes, and expansion opportunities.
• Set and measure production goals to ensure seamless execution.

• Improve turnaround times, budget efficiency, and adherence to company policies.
• Hands-on trade show installations and strikes.
• Collaboration between Floral Exhibits and Kehoe Designs, integrating Floral Exhibits into various events to strengthen the cooperation between the two brands.
• Introduce best practices and technologies to enhance department capabilities, quality, and service.
• Perform administrative functions where necessary.

Industry Knowledge & Relationship Building: 

• Learn about key convention centers locally, such as McCormick Place and Rosemont Convention Center, along with multiple convention centers across the country. 
• Establish and maintain relationships throughout the industry.
• Conduct weekly meetings with the Floral Exhibits team.
• Understand costs relative to sales and assist with financial concerns (monthly and annual reporting).

Qualifications & Skills: 

• Strong leadership, team management, sales, and negotiation skills.
• Experience in the trade show industry
• Strong financial acumen and cost analysis ability.
• 3 years’ Operations Management experience
• MS Office Suite proficiency.
• College degree preferred.
• Flexible schedule, including evenings and weekends.
• Ability to travel locally and nationally.

Physical & Work Environment Requirements: 

• Frequent standing, kneeling, crouching, bending, and reaching.
• Walking 50-100% of the shift.
• Continuous use of hands and arms.
• Ability to move and climb ladders.
• Lift, carry, push, and pull 30-50 lbs. repeatedly; occasionally over 100 lbs. with assistance.
• Handle fragile items safely.
• Move between multiple locations.
• 20/20 vision (with correction).
• Tolerate varying temperatures and moderate to loud noise.

This role requires a detail-oriented professional who excels in sales, floral design, and operations. If you thrive in a fast-paced, creative environment, this position is for you!