Operations & Technology Manager

Key Responsibilities

• Organizational Leadership
• Implement the strategic initiatives and policies established by the Board of Directors.
• Provide day-to-day operational leadership for the association and oversee the execution of organizational programs and initiatives.
• Supervise and coordinate staff and contracted personnel to support effective organizational operations.
• Provide leadership and support to staff in the implementation of board-directed priorities and operational objectives.
• Serve as the primary liaison between the Board of Directors, committees, and staff.
• Represent the association within the western performance horse industry and broader equine community.
• Event Production & Programs
• Oversee planning and execution of NRCHA’s premier competitions and industry events.
• Negotiate and manage facility agreements and venue contracts for national events.
• Cook up with production teams, sponsors, vendors, and event partners to deliver successful competitions and programs.
• Afford relationships with contracted event personnel and service providers.
• Ensure events reflect the traditions, integrity, and competitive standards of the sport.
• Sponsorship & Industry Partnerships
• Collaborate with the Director of Sponsorship to guide sponsorship strategy and partnership development.
• Contribute to the development of sponsorship packages and deliverables that support NRCHA programs and events.
• Maintain relationships with sponsors and industry partners while serving as a primary representative of the association.
• Cultivate relationships across the western performance horse industry to strengthen partnerships and expand opportunities for the organization.
• Membership & Industry Relations
• Support initiatives that encourage growth, engagement, and long-term value for NRCHA members and affiliates.
• Collaborate with the Director of Programs to develop new member initiatives, benefits, and engagement opportunities.
• Contribute to programs that enhance the member experience, including new platforms and services designed to strengthen the NRCHA community.
• Represent NRCHA at industry meetings, competitions, and collaborative initiatives within the western performance horse industry.
• Marketing, Media & Communications
• Provide strategic direction and oversight for the association’s marketing, branding, and communications initiatives.
• Collaborate with the Director of Marketing to ensure brand standards, messaging, and promotional efforts align with the organization’s vision and goals.
• Contribute to the development of media projects, storytelling initiatives, and broadcast opportunities that elevate the sport and its competitors.
• Ensure consistency in NRCHA brand identity and messaging across marketing and communication platforms.
• Governance & Board Support
• Support the Board of Directors and committees by preparing materials, reports, and operational updates.
• Aid in the development and implementation of organizational policies and strategic initiatives.
• Communicate board direction and priorities to staff and oversee implementation of board-approved initiatives.
• Facilitate communication between organizational leadership, staff, and membership.
• Financial Administration
• Operate within the annual budget established by the Board of Directors.
• Coordinate with the organization’s CPA and financial professionals regarding accounting processes, reporting, and financial documentation.
• Aid the Board and Treasurer by providing operational information relevant to budgeting and financial planning.
• Ensure organizational expenditures align with board-approved financial guidelines.
• Foundation Coordination & Support
• Provide administrative oversight and operational coordination for the NRCHA Foundation.
• Support the Foundation Board of Directors by facilitating communication, coordinating meetings, and assisting with the implementation of Foundation initiatives.
• Collaborate with Foundation leadership on programs and projects that support the long-term growth and preservation of the sport.
• Ensure coordination and alignment between Foundation activities and the broader mission of NRCHA.

Qualifications

• Leadership experience in association management, nonprofit administration, sports organizations, or the equine industry.
• Strong organizational and operational management skills.
• Experience coordinating major events or industry programs.
• Ability to build relationships with members, sponsors, and industry partners.
• Knowledge of the western performance horse industry and appreciation for the traditions of the Vaquero training philosophy.