Senior Project Manager II (Trade Shows & Events)

At Jack Morton, we design and build head-turning, smile-inducing, impact-driving brand experiences that redefine experiential marketing. We help clients unlock the full value of experiences by turning bold ideas into meaningful connections. This role requires onsite work 5 days per week at our Addison, IL location.

Responsibilities

• Project Leadership & Execution
  • Manage projects from client intake and planning through design, production, installation, onsite execution, and post-event analysis.
  • Develop and maintain detailed project plans, schedules, milestones, and deliverables.
  • Ensure project objectives, scope, timelines, and quality standards are achieved.
• Budget & Resource Management
  • Develop and manage project budgets throughout the entire project lifecycle.
  • Monitor costs, forecast expenditures, and identify opportunities for efficiencies.
  • Coordinate internal resources and operational support to ensure successful project execution.
• Stakeholder Management
  • Serve as the primary operational point of contact for project stakeholders.
  • Communicate project status, risks, timelines, and updates to internal teams and leadership.
  • Build strong partnerships across Client Services, Account Management, Operations, Production, and Finance.
• Vendor & Logistics Oversight
  • Source, negotiate, and manage third-party vendors, contractors, transportation providers, and show service partners.
  • Coordinate installation and dismantle (I&D) services and all required event logistics.
  • Ensure seamless execution from warehouse to show floor.
• Team Collaboration & Mentorship
  • Lead cross-functional project teams to deliver exceptional client experiences.
  • Provide guidance, coaching, and mentorship to project management team members.
  • Foster a collaborative, solutions-oriented environment focused on excellence.
• Risk Management & Problem Solving
  • Identify project risks before they become issues.
  • Develop contingency plans and implement proactive solutions.
  • Navigate changing priorities while maintaining project momentum and client confidence.
• Technical & Production Oversight
  • Review technical drawings, production specifications, and exhibit construction details.
  • Ensure compliance with safety standards, venue requirements, and operational best practices.
  • Leverage industry expertise to support production decision-making and quality control.
• Project Reconciliation & Reporting
  • Compile final project costs, labor, materials, vendor expenses, and service fees.
  • Analyze project performance and report budget variances.
  • Support accurate invoicing and post-project financial reconciliation.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• 10+ years of project management experience within the tradeshow, exhibition, experiential marketing, events, or related industries.
• Proven success managing large-scale, complex projects from inception through completion.
• Strong understanding of project management methodologies, scheduling, budgeting, and resource planning.
• Experience managing vendors, logistics, and production partners.
• Ability to interpret technical drawings, blueprints, and production specifications.
• Exceptional communication, negotiation, and stakeholder management skills.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities.
• Willingness and ability to travel frequently, including weekends, for onsite event management.

Skills

• Project management software proficiency.
• Experience with ERP and business systems, including Microsoft Dynamics or similar platforms.
• Advanced Microsoft Excel and Microsoft Office skills.
• Strong reporting, budgeting, and financial tracking capabilities.

Schedule

Onsite 5 days per week at Addison, IL location; frequent travel including weekends required for onsite event management.