Manager, Event & Exhibition Operations

Biotechnology Innovation Organization; Washington (District of Columbia); On-site; USD 62,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player seeks a passionate Manager for Event & Exhibition Operations to lead the BIO International Convention. This exciting role involves managing a vast exhibit space, collaborating with various teams, and ensuring a seamless experience for exhibitors and attendees alike. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in event management, excellent communication skills, and a knack for problem-solving. Join a dynamic organization that champions innovation in biotechnology and be part of a team that shapes the future of the industry. If you thrive in fast-paced environments and are ready to make an impact, this opportunity is for you!

Qualifications

• 3+ years of experience in tradeshow/exhibition operations.
• Bachelor’s degree in hospitality/Event Management or related field.

Responsibilities

• Oversee exhibition operations from planning to teardown.
• Manage budgets and coordinate with vendors and internal teams.

Skills

Project Management

Vendor Relationship Management

Communication Skills

Problem-Solving Skills

Attention to Detail

Education

Bachelor’s degree in hospitality/Event Management

CEM or CMP certification

Tools

Event Management Software

Floor Planning Tools

Microsoft Office Suite

Job description

Biotechnology Innovation Organization provided pay range

This range is provided by Biotechnology Innovation Organization. Your actual pay will be based on your skills and experience — talk with your recruiter to learn more.

Base pay range

$62,000.00/yr - $70,000.00/yr

Biotechnology Innovation Organization (BIO) is the world’s largest advocacy association representing member companies, state biotechnology groups, academic and research institutions, and related organizations across the United States and in 30+ countries. BIO members are involved in the research and development of innovative healthcare, agricultural, industrial and environmental biotechnology products. BIO also produces the BIO International Convention, the world’s largest gathering of the biotechnology industry, along with industry-leading investor and partnering meetings held around the world.

Manager, Event & Exhibition Operations will oversee the Exhibition operations at the BIO International Convention, managing a 250,000 sq. ft. exhibit space and coordinating with vendors, exhibitors, and internal teams. This role collaborates across the Events and Industry Programs Department to support exhibitor, sponsor, and show management needs. Additionally, the position provides logistical oversight for other conferences within the BIO Events portfolio.

ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES:

Exhibition Operations

• Manage exhibition operations from planning through teardown, including floor plan design, safety compliance, and show management areas
• Coordinate with internal teams on key areas like the Membership Booth, BIO Pavilion, and Exhibit Sales Office
• Develop and oversee exhibition budgets, identifying cost-saving opportunities while maintaining quality
• Direct the Exhibit Display Approval process and exhibitor in-booth events
• Ensure proper installation of utilities, services, and catering throughout the exhibition
• Maintain exhibitor reporting systems and contribute to the Exhibitor Service Kit
• Stay current on trade show logistics, IAEE guidelines, and industry trends
• Oversee relationships with key vendors including General Services Contractor, AV, Telecommunications, and Convention Center Services
• Manage Exhibitor Appointed Contractor (EAC) coordination and serve as liaison between vendors, exhibitors, and BIO staff
• Supervise exhibition floor staff and temporary support to ensure excellent service and efficient issue resolution
• Lead logistical planning for assigned smaller conferences within the BIO Events portfolio
• Coordinate site selection, venue contracting, and event scheduling with internal teams
• Create and maintain comprehensive event specifications, including room setups, AV, and other technical requirements
• Manage event budgets, contracts, and vendor relationships
• Serve as primary on-site contact between BIO teams, attendees, and vendors

REQUIRED BACKGROUND, EDUCATION, and SKILLS:

Education and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in hospitality/Event Management, Business Administration, Communications, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• CEM or CMP certification is highly desirable.
• 3+ years of tradeshow/exhibition operations experience, with large scale (200,000+ sq ft) experience preferred, including knowledge of industry best practices, event safety, compliance, contracts, and technical aspects.

Technical Skills

• Proficiency in event management software and floor planning tools
• Experience with exhibition service kit development
• Knowledge of venue operations and technical requirements
• Familiarity with IAEE guidelines and industry standards
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, particularly Excel for budgeting

Interpersonal Skills

• Excellence in project management and vendor relationship management
• Strong organizational skills with meticulous attention to detail
• Outstanding communication and negotiation capabilities
• Proven ability to lead cross-functional teams and temporary staff
• Strong problem-solving skills and calm decision-making under pressure
• Customer service mindset with focus on exhibitor satisfaction

Additional Qualifications

• Willingness to travel for events within the United States an estimated 6-8 weeks per year.
• Ability to work extended hours during show periods
• Physical ability to walk exhibition halls and manage on-site operations

BIO is an equal opportunity employer. BIO does not discriminate in employment with regard to race, color, religion, national origin, citizenship status, ancestry, age, sex (including sexual harassment), sexual orientation, marital status, physical or mental disability, military status or unfavorable discharge from military service or any other characteristic protected by law.

Seniority level

Entry level

Employment type

Full-time

Job function

Project Management and Administrative