Sr. Show Manager

About the role

The Conference & Program Specialist is responsible for the strategic development, planning, and execution of high-quality, profitable conferences, special events, educational programming, and industry community engagement for technical trade shows. This role is a key driver for enhancing the show's value proposition for both visitors and exhibitors.

Key responsibilities

• Conference and Feature Area Strategy & Execution:
  • Create and deliver profitable, high-impact conferences, special events, show floor experiences, training sessions, and educational programs that enhance visitor and exhibitor value.
  • Design and deploy a compelling Call for Papers process to identify and secure industry-leading speakers and content.
  • Establish, manage, and engage Advisory Council(s) for each show to ensure program relevance and industry alignment.
  • Develop comprehensive education outlines, set key deadlines, manage timelines, and ensure all program deliverables meet MFI standards.
  • Select, confirm, and manage all speakers and/or collaborative partners, handling all necessary communications.
  • Generate engaging session titles and descriptions, and collect all marketing-required assets (e.g., photos, bios) for promotional use.
  • Coordinate speaker/Advisory Council travel and registration details with the Operations Manager. Manage all program logistics, including room sets, AV requirements, and food and beverage needs.
  • Work closely with the Show Manager/Director to align program concepts with the overall show strategy and attendee experience.
  • Conduct thorough evaluations of all programs and feature areas, utilizing results to inform and elevate future plans.
  • Continually strive for creative ways to elevate the conferences and programs at all technical-based shows.
  • Develop independent educational opportunities (e.g., webinars, training) in the opposite year of the shows to maintain industry exposure.
• Industry Awards and VIP Experiences:
  • Manage the Industry Awards programs from initiation through execution and promotion.
  • Manage the VIP Lounge Experience, ensuring a high-value networking and hospitality environment (if applicable).
• Marketing, Communications, & Community Cultivation:
  • Provide the PR & Marketing Manager with complete program schedules, feature area details, and content for all signage, social media, print, and digital marketing materials.
  • Collaborate with the PR & Marketing Manager and the contracted registration company to ensure a comprehensive and smoothly executed registration process.
  • Develop and execute a community communication roadmap aimed at producing an increased industry following for both the show and its educational programming.
  • Convert session content into high-impact community engagement via social media and other media platforms to generate involvement from targeted industry sectors.
  • Partner with the Content Specialist to generate compelling copy that elevates community platforms and engagement.
  • Cultivate strong, lasting relationships with key individuals and organizations within the industries served.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's Degree in Marketing, Communications, or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Minimum of 4+ years of professional conference management experience, preferably within a B2B or technical trade show environment.
• Expert knowledge of current conference management trends, best practices, and technology.
• Goal-oriented, flexible, and capable of demonstrating creativity and calm under pressure while managing multiple simultaneous projects.
• Exceptional communication (written and verbal) and presentation skills.
• Demonstrated strong leadership and the ability to effectively motivate and manage industry volunteers/Advisory Councils.
• Superior planning, research, and organizational skills are essential.
• Ability to cultivate strong, positive relationships and thrive in a collaborative team environment.
• Previous experience in the trade show or a technical/technology-related industry is a significant plus.

Additional requirements

• Ability to travel is required - domestic and international.
• Ability to be present in the office.
• Ability to work long hours on-site during shows, which may include prolonged standing, walking, and physical setup/teardown.
• Ability to sit, stand, walk, travel up and down stairs, crouch, stoop, and reach.
• Ability to lift up to 25 lbs.
• Ability to pass a background check and drug screening test.