The Experiential Director (Events) leads the planning, production and on-site execution of event and experiential marketing programs for brand clients. Acting as the day-to-day lead for production-related activities, the role oversees vendor sourcing and negotiation, fabrication, audiovisual production, staging, signage and interactive experiences, guiding projects from initial brief through post-event recap. The position also helps shape production standards and scalable processes across the events team, working closely with clients, account teams, creatives and external partners. It involves leading on-site staff, managing program budgets and traveling domestically for events, including nights and weekends.

Responsibilities

Work in collaboration with Events Team on programs as lead producer
Collaborate with a variety of specialty groups within Octagon (creative, client services, digital, etc.) taking the lead as experiential or event production expert
Work on a variety of programs and projects, large and small, with both new and existing client relationships
Comfortable with hiring, leading, and maintaining positive relationships with vendors and partners for any items related to production and audio visual
Host client and inter-agency calls during planning, providing strategy and recommendations while keeping an organized, efficient staffing plan
Lead on-site staff and partners at events and activations
Collaborate on program budgets – including tracking expenses, forecasting cost, and identifying efficiencies – while ensuring adherence to client guidelines
Lead and support brainstorms and thought leadership projects
A moderate amount of domestic event travel will be required throughout the year, including nights and weekends (approximately 1-2 times a month)
Other administrative duties as assigned

Requirements

A passion for and expertise in event operations and logistics, such as business conferences, tradeshows and conventions, B2B events, sports, entertainment, music and/or celebrity & lifestyle culture
6-10 years of work experience in event production or experiential marketing
Proficiency in driving business forward and adjusting approach based on timelines and project demands
Ability to take on a leadership role, while working well within a team-centric environment
Outstanding communicator both in persuasive and concise speech and written documents/ communication
Proactive, solution-oriented thinker and doer
Leading and prioritizing multiple projects with varying timelines and needs
Ability to “zoom in’ to figure out complex logistical problems with team members, then “zoom out” to understand big picture strategy and inform leadership
Willingness to work non-traditional event hours and travel for work
Proficiency with Microsoft Office suite, especially PowerPoint
Ability to lift up to 50 lbs. and stand for up to or more than 8 hours at a time
Flexibility and willingness to travel domestically and work weekends or holidays as needed. Anticipated travel: Moderate (20-45%)