Logo
job logo

Manager of Trade Show

American Sportfishing Association, Alexandria, Virginia, us, 22350

Save Job

Overview The Trade Show Manager supports the successful planning and execution of the trade show by ensuring a high-quality exhibitor and attendee experience, maintaining strong operational accuracy across registration and exhibitor processes, coordinating marketing and communications deliverables, and partnering with vendors and internal teams to meet event timelines. This role balances hands-on execution with proactive problem-solving to keep the show on track and continuously improve processes year-over-year.

Key Responsibilities & Outcomes Exhibitor Support & Show Readiness

Serve as the primary point of contact for exhibitor inquiries, including display regulations, service forms, rules and regulations, and general planning support

Assist in processing exhibit contracts and managing exhibitor payment workflows

Provide high-quality customer service via email, phone, and in-person support during show site operations

Exhibitors receive timely and accurate guidance that enables smooth planning and compliance

Issues are resolved quickly with minimal escalation and improved exhibitor satisfaction

Contract execution and payment coordination reduce billing exceptions and improve revenue tracking

Attendee Support & Registration Execution

Serve as a primary point of contact for attendee inquiries

Manage registration activities as directed by the Trade Show Director

Support on-site needs tied to attendee access and experience

Manage registration in an accurate and organized manner and deliver a seamless attendee experience

Resolve attendee inquiries efficiently, reducing friction and improving satisfaction

Manage registration data that support reliable reporting and operational decision-making

Marketing, Communications & Website Coordination

Manage and coordinate marketing campaigns including mailings, emails, and print marketing materials

Maintain and update the trade show website in coordination with the communications department

Ensure exhibitor and attendee communications are clear, timely, and consistent

Launch campaigns on schedule and support attendance and exhibitor engagement goals

Develop web content and show communications that reduce confusion and prevent avoidable inquiries

Maintain professional and consistent brand experience across all channels

Coordinate with the general show contractor and key vendors to support show deliverables

Manage the MapYourShow platform and coordinate vendor support for show assets and needs (e.g., Show Guide, meeting rooms, special events)

Assist with show logistics and other trade show-related events as directed by leadership

Execute vendor deliverables on time and aligned with show requirements

Ensure MapYourShow information remains accurate and supports exhibitor visibility and attendee navigation

Guarantee that on-site operations run smoothly, with rapid issue resolution and minimal disruption

Administrative Execution & Operational Excellence

Provide administrative support including data entry, filing, invoicing support, mailings, and ordering supplies

Maintain organized documentation and records supporting exhibitor and registration workflows

Perform other duties and responsibilities as assigned by the Trade Show Director and department leadership

Ensure internal processes are reliable, accurate, and easy to track across the planning cycle

Support leadership with dependable operational support, to allow team to focus on strategic priorities

Manage timeline and follow through to avoid last-minute surprises

Identify recurring challenges and propose improvements to workflows, communications, and processes

Collaborate across internal teams to ensure alignment and execution against timelines

Make year-over-year improvements to reduce rework, improve clarity, and strengthen stakeholder experience

Execute projects and operations for better visibility, coordination, and execution

Experience and Competencies Bachelor's degree in hospitality, Tourism and Travel Management, or similar discipline and at least three years’ event experience or combined equivalent of work experience and education required. Ideally the experience is in the tradeshow environment. Strong preference given to current CEM designation.

Self-motivated and pro-active team leader with experience developing ways of accomplishing goals with little or no supervision.

Experience handling high-volume, production-based projects, including prioritizing, organizing and tracking details, effectively managing deadlines and multiple priorities.

Willingness to learn and look for ways to improve processes to achieve greater efficiency in pre-, during, and post-planning phases. This involves taking the initiative to try new approaches and trusting one’s own professional judgment.

Committed to strong relationships and quality service to internal team members and external clients and partners.

Ability to remain focused and be effective during program event setbacks. Must be able to juggle the demands of customers, vendors, and team members while remaining calm. This means knowing how to prioritize both in the office and on-site at event functions despite on-going interruptions. It is critical to be open to feedback in order to improve future performance.

Accomplished problem solver with superior analytical skills. Demonstrate the ability to communicate clearly, concisely, and effectively in both written and oral context with internal customers, attendees, team members, and vendors.

Skilled in Microsoft Excel, PowerPoint and Word, IMIS or similar AMS software, and event management software platforms.

Preferred Qualifications and Experience Knowledge of information systems, including association databases, web design and programming, data collection and analysis, and/or formal report development.Experience with event marketing and/or sales operational tasks including advertising, market development, attendee acquisition, research, outreach, content development, analysis, etc.

Experience with strategic planning process for all meetings and events to ensure continual improvement and quality customer service.

#J-18808-Ljbffr