Manager, Trade Show Operations

**Overall Responsibilities**:
Manage trade show logistics and operations for IAAPA Expo Asia, the leading event in the Asia-Pacific region for the amusement park and attractions industry, and assist in the planning and execution of IAAPA events in Asia Pacific.

**Essential Duties & Responsibilities**:

- Manage key vendors for Expo Operations and events in Asia-Pacific region.
- Work on strategy and financial planning for IAAPA Expo Asia. Make recommendations for budget planning process.
- Work with US-based team as well as be an integral part of the team in the Asia-Pacific office.
- Work with regional Convention Centers/facilities to facilitate event operations and optimize results for IAAPA.
- Source new facilities and make suggestions on best location for IAAPA Expo Asia rotation planning according to IAAPA requirements and suggestions from Asia Pacific Manufacturer & Supplier as well as Advisory committees.
- Be alert and look for opportunities of funding from government entities where the IAAPA Expo Asia is held. Discuss with Vice President on strategy on government negotiations.
- Assist IAAPA with creation and review of Chinese translation for operations communications, as needed.
- Establish/maintain relationships with contacts at prospective destinations and venues for upcoming IAAPA events, conferences or meetings in Asia-Pacific region.
- Manage overall logistics and planning for non-expo events including and not limited to: F&B, registration management, venue negotiation, site check, housing, transportation, and translations.
- Assist in the process for meetings and event service provider RFP, bid solicitation, evaluation, selection and contract negotiation in conjunction with IAAPA senior management.
- Serve as primary point of contact and IAAPA representative for vendors including but not limited to: convention centers, official service contractors, freight forwarder/customs broker, DMCs, AV and technology service providers, registration services provider and general service contractors.
- Leverage multi-year relationships with facilities and vendors where applicable, including with global sales representatives of properties/facilities.
- Local contact for government officials and approvals for bringing equipment on the show floor
- Gather/review/approve relevant documents/submissions for IAAPA Expo Asia and events in Asia-Pacific region.
- Assist with management of the ambassador team.
- Serve as liaison with volunteer committees as assigned. Assign expo operations tasks to all staff for on-site management of events, and train staff on responsibilities/fulfillment.
- Assist with operational aspects of the trade shows in Europe and the U.S., both pre-show and on-site as needed

**Qualification, Knowledge, Skill Required**:

- College degree in business or equivalent experience.
- More experienced professional will be considered Senior Manager, Expo Operations
- Proficiency in English and Chinese, both written and oral.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office. iMIS and a2z exhibition management software knowledge preferred but not required.
- 8-10 years in exhibition/events management, preferably in non-profit (trade association), PMP, CEM designation and international experience preferred.
- Team player and ability to work in highly matrixed environments.
- Must be extremely detail-oriented and able to balance several projects at once.
- Keen ability to prioritize, meet strict deadlines, and make productive use of time under pressure
- Ability to anticipate problems and opportunities and the initiative to follow through quickly and independently.
- Excellent oral and written communication skills.
- Willingness to travel.
- Ability to work weekends and after hours during busy conference times.
- Physical requirement include ability to travel, walk and stand for long period of time, stoop, drive, lift at least 45 pounds and willingness to perform manual labor specific to job (i.e. packing boxes, carrying signage, hail taxicabs, move tables and chairs etc.).