Executive Director of Operations and Events

About Washington County Fair Park & Conference Center

Washington County Fair Park & Conference Center (WCFP) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization located in West Bend, WI. The organization is currently undergoing a phase of modernization, expanding its mission and growing year-round. WCFP is recognized as a key community asset in Washington County.

Role Overview

The Executive Director of Operations and Events holds ultimate responsibility for managing the daily operations of WCFP. This includes overseeing the execution of strategic plans, financial management such as budgeting and capital planning, and regular reporting to the Board of Directors. The role also involves supervising the staff and coordinating all fairs, exhibits, conferences, and promotional events hosted at the facility.

Key Leadership Priorities and Strategic Opportunities

• Implement the Board’s long-range strategic and business plans, managing all financial operations including budgeting, forecasting, and capital planning.
• Establish and lead the Friends of the Fair Foundation and its capital campaign, driving donor cultivation and sponsorship efforts with major-gift fundraising expertise.
• Lead marketing, brand promotion, and visibility initiatives to increase attendance, facility rentals, and regional profile.
• Design and execute a contemporary staffing and leadership structure by clarifying roles and recruiting to foster a high-performance team.
• Enhance internal operations by strengthening processes and promoting a collaborative, customer-focused culture.
• Expand year-round programming including conferences, exhibitions, and mission-aligned events to boost utilization and local economic impact.

Core Responsibilities

• Partner with the Board and Washington County to lead business and strategic plan development and communicate initiatives organization-wide.
• Provide leadership for all Fair Park personnel and recommend policies for Board approval.
• Supervise the management of all events including fairs, exhibits, conferences, and promotional activities.
• Maintain a profitable event schedule ensuring high quality service for contractors, licensors, and the public.
• Assess performance against plans and report progress regularly to the Board.

Marketing and Fundraising Duties

• Act as the principal fundraiser by cultivating donors, securing sponsorships and grants, and leading the capital campaign through the Friends of the Fair Foundation.
• Direct marketing, branding, and promotional strategies to enhance WCFP’s event visibility and audience engagement.
• Develop and nurture corporate and business relationships to expand sponsorships, rental opportunities, and partnerships.
• Serve as a credible and visible spokesperson to media, contractors, and community stakeholders.
• Oversee the formulation of the annual operating budget, capital budget, and management of facility and capital project planning.

Staff and Board Leadership

• Build and manage a high-performing team, conducting regular meetings to monitor progress and address issues.
• Advise the Board and staff on personnel matters including hiring, training, and staffing needs.
• Support development of Board and committees, maintain position descriptions and manage staff performance evaluations.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Marketing, Business, Public Administration, or related field.
• Between 5 and 8 years of experience in marketing, fundraising, development, and project management; experience with fairgrounds, expo centers, convention centers, or major attractions preferred.
• Demonstrated success in fundraising, including major gift cultivation, sponsorship development, and leading capital campaigns.
• Strong marketing, branding, and public relations capabilities with proven ability to increase visibility, attendance, and community involvement.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and relationship-building skills with donors, sponsors, government entities, and community members.
• Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills with sound business judgement.
• Preferred experience includes government settings or public-private partnerships, familiarity with agriculture and exposition industries, and crisis management.

Diversity and Equal Opportunity

Washington County Fair Park and Conference Center is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will be considered regardless of race, color, religion, sex, disability, or any other status protected by law.