Manager LED Operations

About the role

The LED Manager, Operations is responsible for leading the pre-production LED design team, having accountability from budget through implementation. This role aligns resources, standards, and technology to facilitate the design and execution of a wide variety of LED projects.

Responsibilities

• Lead end-to-end operational planning and execution for assigned events, ensuring alignment with client expectations, budgets, and timelines
• Partner cross-functionally with Production, Account Management, and Sales to ensure seamless delivery
• Advise on labor planning, scheduling, and on-site supervision across installation & dismantle (I&D), logistics, and show-site services
• Monitor operational KPIs including productivity, cost efficiency, on-time delivery, service and design quality
• Resolve escalated operational issues in real time, ensuring minimal client impact while preventing recurrence
• Directly manage and develop frontline supervisors and operations staff, including hiring, onboarding, coaching, and performance management
• Foster an inclusive, high-performing team culture aligned with Freeman values
• Conduct regular one-on-ones, performance reviews, and development planning
• Drive workforce engagement, retention, and readiness across peak event cycles
• Ensure proper staffing levels and skill alignment for event needs, including full-time and contingent labor
• Champion a strong safety culture and ensure adherence to all safety policies, union rules, and regulatory requirements
• Ensure compliance with venue, labor union, and client-specific requirements
• Implement quality control processes to maintain high standards of execution and customer satisfaction
• Serve as an operational point of contact for internal stakeholders and, where needed, external clients
• Ensure a consistent, high-quality client experience throughout event delivery
• Support continuous improvement initiatives based on client feedback, post-event evaluations, and internal needs
• Manage operational budgets, labor costs, and resource utilization to meet financial targets
• Identify cost-saving opportunities without compromising service quality
• Support forecasting and planning for future events and business cycles

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree preferred, High School Diploma or Equivalent with relevant work experience required
• 5+ years of experience in event operations, logistics, production, or related field
• 2+ years of people leadership experience (direct reports required)
• Proven experience managing complex, multi-phase operational projects
• Strong understanding of event execution, including labor planning and show-site operations
• Ability to work flexible hours, including nights, weekends, and travel as required

Qualifications

• Preferred Experience in trade shows, live events, or experiential marketing
• Familiarity with union labor environments and large venue operations
• First-hand experience with CAD software, preferably Vectorworks
• OSHA 30

Skills

• People Leadership: Coaching, accountability, engagement
• Operational Excellence: Planning, execution, continuous improvement
• Customer Focus: Delivering high-quality client experiences
• Collaboration: Cross-functional partnership
• Problem Solving: Agile decision-making in fast-paced environments
• Financial Acumen: Cost control and resource optimization

Benefits

The Freeman Company offers a comprehensive benefits package designed to support the health, financial security, and overall well-being of our employees and their families. This includes medical, dental, vision insurance, tuition reimbursement, paid parental leave, life, accident, and disability insurance, retirement with company match, paid time off, and more. Specific benefits may vary by location.