Director of Events

POSITION SUMMARY The Director of Events is a strategic and hands-on leadership role responsible for the overall success and continued growth of Ignite Dance Competition events. This individual will lead event strategy, studio relationship development, and operational execution across the company’s event portfolio, ensuring exceptional experiences for dancers, families, and studios. Working alongside the Event Manager, the Director will actively oversee and execute all phases of event operations while developing deep expertise in the full event lifecycle. This role requires a leader who can balance long-term planning with real-time problem-solving and operational excellence. As the company continues to grow, the Director will help strengthen processes, support team development, and drive the successful expansion of Ignite’s events and studio partnerships. This role is expected to evolve in scope and leadership responsibility. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES Event Leadership

• Book and contract all event venues, negotiating favorable terms and ensuring venues meet competition standards
• Set and manage the annual calendar of events for each competitive season alongside the CEO
• Lead and execute all pre- and post-event tasks to ensure seamless execution from planning through wrap-up
• Manage and mentor the Event Manager, providing guidance on performance and professional development
• Evaluate and improve event processes, systems, and workflows to increase operational efficiency and consistency.
• Respond to and resolve event-related issues and operational challenges in a calm, professional, and solutions-oriented manner.
• Travel throughout the competitive season to support on-site event delivery

Event Administration

• Register studios for assigned events and manage the full registration workflow
• Coordinate and confirm music, waiver, and payment submissions from studios
• Build detailed event schedules and ensure all logistical elements are in place
• Calculate, prepare, and manage all trophy orders while maintaining accurate inventory levels throughout the season.
• Ensure compliance with registration deadlines and submission requirements across all events
• Serve as a primary liaison with venues and event partners to coordinate logistics and event execution

Studio Relations & Business Development

• Lead and actively execute studio cultivation, outreach, solicitation, and retention efforts to grow and sustain the studio client base.
• Build, manage, and maintain strong studio relationships by serving as a primary point of contact and fostering trust and long-term partnerships.
• Create, coordinate, and oversee all studio communication related to events, ensuring correspondence is timely, accurate, professional, and relationship-focused.
• Manage customer service for studios and families, resolving issues with urgency and care

QUALIFICATIONS Education & Experience

• Bachelor's degree in event management, business, communications, or a related field preferred; equivalent experience considered
• 3+ years of experience in event management, operations, or a related role
• Experience in the dance, performing arts, or youth sports industry strongly preferred
• Proven track record of managing multiple concurrent events or projects

Skills & Competencies

• Strategic thinker who can also execute at a detailed, operational level
• Exceptional organizational and project management skills with the ability to prioritize in a fast-paced environment
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills; confident in representing the brand with studios, venues, and partners
• Proficiency in event management software, registration platforms, and standard office tools (Microsoft Office, Google Workspace)
• Customer-service orientation with a proactive approach to problem-solving
• Ability to build and maintain positive relationships with a diverse range of stakeholders

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

• Ability to lift, carry, and move items weighing up to 50 lbs
• Ability to stand and remain on your feet for 8–12 hours during event days
• Willingness and ability to travel regularly throughout the competitive season

WORK ENVIRONMENT This role is primarily remote, with the expectation that the employee is based within driving distance of Orangeburg, SC, to support occasional in-person meetings, planning sessions, and operational needs. The position also requires travel for approximately 30% of the time for events and related business activities. Apply tot his job Apply To this Job