Plant Exhibits Operations Manager

We are seeking an experienced Plant Exhibits Operations Manager to oversee the operations and strategic initiatives of our plant focused exhibits. This hands-on role combines leadership, client relations, event production, and team management in a fast-paced and creative environment. We are searching for passionate individuals in botanical design, with a strong background in plant show planning and a solid understanding of plant displays in trade shows and exhibits.

Leadership & Team Management:

• Interview, hire, and train department staff in plant exhibit design and production.
• Evaluate and manage team performance while cultivating a collaborative culture.
• Schedule team coverage for plant trade shows, garden expos, and client events.

Sales & Business Development:

• Build relationships within the industry and with clients and other brands while fostering new client relationships.
• Develop and implement long- and short-term business strategies in marketing, sales, production, and operations.
• Set tactical, operational, and financial goals in alignment with company plans.
• Develop operational improvements and efficiencies.

Operations & Production Management:

• Provide recommendations regarding capital requests, operational changes, and expansion opportunities, including green infrastructure.
• Set and measure production goals to ensure seamless execution.
• Improve turnaround times, budget efficiency, and adherence to company policies.
• Hands-on trade show installations and striking of plant displays at trade shows and public exhibitions.
• Collaboration between internal teams to ensure the successful integration of plant-based elements into larger events.
• Introduce best practices and technologies to enhance department capabilities, quality, and service.
• Perform administrative functions where necessary.

Industry Knowledge & Relationship Building:

• Develop knowledge of local and national venue space including, McCormick Place, Rosemont Convention Center, and other Convention Centers across the country.
• Establish and maintain relationships throughout the industry.
• Conduct weekly meetings with the team.
• Focused on live place care, logistics, and exhibit innovation
• Understand costs relative to sales and assist with financial concerns
• Oversees live plant care and nurturing to ensure good health and presentation

Qualifications & Skills:

• 3 years of experience in plant exhibit design, and horticultural event planning, or related field
• Proven success managing live plants, botanical design, or themed greenery environments
• Strong leadership, team management, negotiation skills, and project management
• Trade show or exhibit experience is required.
• Strong financial acumen and cost analysis ability.
• MS Office Suite proficiency.
• A college degreeis preferred.
• Flexible schedule, including evenings and weekends.
• Ability to travel locally and nationally.

Physical & Work Environment Requirements:

• Frequent standing, kneeling, crouching, bending, and reaching.
• Walking 50-100% of the shift.
• Continuous use of hands and arms.
• Ability to move and climb ladders.
• Ability to lift and handle live plants and heavy planters
• Lift, carry, push, and pull 30-50 lbs.. repeatedly; occasionally over 100 lbs.. with assistance.
• 20/20 vision (with correction).
• Tolerate varying temperatures and moderate to loud noise.

Why join our amazing team?

This is an exciting opportunity for a hands-on leader with a background in plants, floral art, and green design who is passionate about creating immersive living exhibits. If you thrive in a dynamic environment where horticulture meets creativity, we would love to hear from you.

Apply now to help bring the beauty of live plant design to the center stage.

We offer :

• Competitive pay
• 401(K)
• Holidays
• Medical, dental, vision benefits