Head of Automotive Trade Show Programs

Transcend Creative Group; Dearborn (MI); Hybrid; USD 120,000 - 190,000; Full time

Job summary

Transcend Creative Group in Dearborn, MI, seeks a Program Director to lead strategic development, execution, and performance of large-scale automotive trade shows and experiential programs.

This high-visibility role guides cross-functional teams, manages multi-million-dollar budgets, and partners with clients to ensure on-time delivery and measurable impact. Travel will be extensive, and digital experiences and sustainability initiatives are encouraged.

Qualifications

• 10+ years of experience in experiential marketing, event production, or trade show program management.
• Proven leadership experience managing large-scale automotive or OEM programs.
• Strong understanding of automotive industry dynamics, product cycles, and brand positioning.
• Ability to manage large budgets and deliver programs on time and within scope.
• Exceptional client management and executive communication skills.
• Experience leading cross-functional teams and external partners in fast-paced environments.
• Willingness to travel extensively (domestic and international).

Responsibilities

• Own end-to-end program leadership for national and international auto shows, industry events, and experiential activations.
• Translate brand, product, and business objectives into high-impact trade show strategies and experiences.
• Lead cross-functional teams including creative, production, logistics, digital, and client stakeholders.
• Serve as primary client partner, ensuring alignment, communication, and delivery against expectations.
• Oversee multi-million dollar budgets, forecasting, and cost control while maximizing ROI.
• Manage external vendors, agencies, fabrication partners, and show organizers.
• Develop and execute integrated timelines across all program phases.
• Establish KPIs and measurement frameworks to evaluate event performance and business impact.
• Identify opportunities for innovation, including digital integration and sustainability initiatives.
• Mentor and lead internal teams to foster a high-performance culture.

Skills

Experiential marketing

Event production

Program management

Leadership

Client management

Budget management

Cross-functional leadership

Job description

Transcend Creative Group in Dearborn, MI, seeks a Program Director to lead strategic development, execution, and performance of large-scale automotive trade shows and experiential programs.

This high-visibility role guides cross-functional teams, manages multi-million-dollar budgets, and partners with clients to ensure on-time delivery and measurable impact. Travel will be extensive, and digital experiences and sustainability initiatives are encouraged.