Associate Programs Producer, Obama Presidential Center Programs

Obama Foundation•Chicago, IL

5d•$59,755 - $74,670•Onsite

About The Position

The Associate Programs Producer plays a critical role in the planning, production, and execution of programming at the Obama Presidential Center (OPC). The producer will focus on the athletics and well-being portfolio of programs taking place at Home Court and the broader OPC Campus. This position will also provide occasional production support for larger public programming experiences across the Campus such as music performances and talks as needed. This role is primarily focused on end-to-end production and event management, ensuring that programs are delivered with operational excellence, consistency, and attention to detail. The Producer advances program concepts from planning through live execution, with responsibility for coordinating logistics, managing timelines, trafficking content, supporting vendors and talent, and overseeing on-site operations. Working across spaces including the Home Court, media suite, program rooms, auditorium, outdoor areas, and off-site activations (e.g., field trips), this role supports a wide range of programming including sports-based activations, partner-led events, and community well-being experiences. Reporting to the Manager of Athletics & Sports Leadership, the Producer works cross-functionally to ensure programs are delivered on time, on budget, and aligned with OPC’s mission to inspire, empower, and connect communities.

Requirements

Minimum 3+ years of experience in event production, live program execution, or operations-heavy roles
Proven ability to manage complex logistics across multiple stakeholders and environments
Strong understanding of event production including equipment use, AV, sound, staging, and venue operations
Experience supporting live events, activations, or public-facing programs (sports experience a plus, but not required)
Experience working with external partners, vendors, and/or talent
Excellent communication and organizational skills
Ability to manage multiple projects in a fast-paced, collaborative environment
Willingness to work evenings and weekends as needed
Comfort working in dynamic environments with both structured programs and active-use spaces

Nice To Haves

Spanish proficiency is a plus, but not required

Responsibilities

Develop and maintain detailed production timelines, project plans, program content, and run-of-show documents
Coordinate program logistics across Home Court and OPC spaces, including scheduling, technical needs, and operational requirements
Coordinate logistics with vendors, facilitators, speakers, athletes, and community partners
Manage talent logistics including travel, hospitality, scheduling, and on-site support
Review and manage technical riders, equipment needs, and production specifications
Prepare program logistics updates and production briefs for internal stakeholders
Serve as a lead production point during program execution, ensuring seamless delivery of live programs and sports activations
Coordinate closely with OPC teams including Operations (Venue Management, Facilities, Security, and Visitor Experience)
Manage load-ins, rehearsals, technical runs, gameplay/activation setup, and strike
Oversee equipment use, space setup, AV, and transitions across events
Troubleshoot real-time production and operational challenges with professionalism and efficiency
Support program budget management including invoice processing, expense tracking, and reconciliation
Create and maintain spreadsheets, presentation decks, and reporting materials
Prepare production documentation including logistics briefs, schedules, and post-event debrief materials
Coordinate with Communications on program content and operational details for promotional use
Maintain organized production records to support ongoing planning and evaluation