Endurance Event Operations Lead (Remote, Travel)

LocaliQ; United States; Hybrid; USD 65,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

USA TODAY Co., Inc. is seeking an Event Operations Manager for Ventures Endurance Events. This role is primarily remote with a preference for candidates in the Chicago region due to event density and operations needs. You will support multiple brands, coordinate with cross-functional teams, and travel about 50% of the year.

Reports to the Sr. Manager, Event Operations. Strong project management, communication, and leadership are essential to ensure smooth planning, permitting, and onsite

Qualifications

• 1–3+ years of event/live event ops experience.
• Experience with outdoor athletic or endurance events preferred.
• Strong attention to detail with multiple projects and deadlines.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs.
• Willingness to travel ~50%.

Responsibilities

• Plan, produce, and execute event operations from contract to post-event closeout.
• Manage race-related operational elements: timelines, site plans, course layouts, public safety, and parking.
• Oversee course/site layout, load-in/load-out, and on-site execution.
• Manage onsite inventories: equipment, branding, collateral, registration materials, and volunteer supplies.
• Secure and document required permits and approvals with leadership.
• Prepare and submit documentation to municipalities, agencies, and partners.
• Maintain relationships with local jurisdictions, public agencies, and third-party partners.
• Conduct vendor outreach, quotes, negotiation, and management before/during/after events.
• Track vendor contracts, deliverables, and payments.
• Support established event budgets and identify cost savings and process improvements.
• Collaborate with Marketing, Volunteer, Customer Service, and other teams.
• Support community engagement initiatives and outreach.
• Participate in community activations, expos, and promotional events as needed.
• Maintain a database of community and partner contacts and support event amenity programs.
• Provide onsite leadership and contribute to long-term event development.

Skills

Event operations

Live endurance events

Attention to detail

Communication skills

Leadership

Cross-functional

Job description

USA TODAY Co., Inc. is seeking an Event Operations Manager for Ventures Endurance Events. This role is primarily remote with a preference for candidates in the Chicago region due to event density and operations needs. You will support multiple brands, coordinate with cross-functional teams, and travel about 50% of the year.

Reports to the Sr. Manager, Event Operations. Strong project management, communication, and leadership are essential to ensure smooth planning, permitting, and onsite