Head of Operations for Premier Event Campus

American Royal Association; Kansas City (KS); On-site; USD 100,000 - 170,000; Full time

Job summary

The American Royal is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to championing food and agriculture. The Director of Operations leads year-round venue operations, staffing, safety, and event logistics for a complex campus hosting livestock shows, rodeos, and large-scale events.

This role requires 7+ years in operations leadership, a bachelor's degree, and a proven ability to oversee multiple concurrent events, budgets, and teams while driving efficiency and exceptional guest experiences.

Qualifications

• Seven (7) + years of progressive operations leadership experience.
• Bachelor's degree in a relevant field preferred.
• Three (3) + years leading managers, supervisors, or large operational teams.
• Experience managing operations within a convention center, arena, stadium, or similar complex operation.
• Experience managing multiple concurrent events, budgets, vendors, and resources.

Responsibilities

• Lead the day-to-day operations of the American Royal campuses, ensuring safe, efficient experiences for exhibitors, guests, partners, and staff.
• Develop staffing strategies and best practices that improve efficiency, service, and long-term sustainability.
• Oversee operational planning for multiple concurrent events while balancing facility, staffing, and logistical priorities.
• Lead and develop a diverse operations team consisting of full-time employees, temporary staff, contractors, vendors, and event personnel.
• Foster a collaborative culture focused on accountability, teamwork, and continuous improvement.
• Direct the setup, execution, and breakdown of agricultural, sporting, corporate, community, and third-party events.
• Coordinate staffing, equipment, contractors, vendors, and facility resources to support successful event execution.
• Develop and manage departmental operating budgets while identifying opportunities to improve efficiency and control costs.
• Ensure compliance with OSHA, fire, environmental, and other regulations; maintain emergency preparedness and workplace safety standards.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Relationship building

Organizational skills

Problem solving

Financial acumen

Staffing models

Education

Bachelor's degree

Tools

Microsoft Office

Operational management software

Job description

The American Royal is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to championing food and agriculture. The Director of Operations leads year-round venue operations, staffing, safety, and event logistics for a complex campus hosting livestock shows, rodeos, and large-scale events.

This role requires 7+ years in operations leadership, a bachelor's degree, and a proven ability to oversee multiple concurrent events, budgets, and teams while driving efficiency and exceptional guest experiences.