Manager, Sponsor & Exhibitor Services - Fanatics Events

Fanatics•New York, NY

12d•$90,000 - $120,000

About The Position

Fanatics is a global leader in licensed sports merchandise, collectibles, and fan experiences. Our newest platform, Fanatics Events, creates large-scale consumer festivals and live experiences that bring fans, athletes, and partners together. Our flagship productions include Fanatics Fest – a first-of-its-kind multi-day fan festival currently hosted in New York City, combining sports, collectibles, athlete appearances, and immersive activations; and WWE World – a multi-day consumer event produced in partnership with WWE, bringing fans closer to superstars, storylines, and experiences during major tentpole weekends. As we scale our live events business, we’re seeking a Manager, Sponsor & Exhibitor Services to help bring to life sponsorship programs for our brand partners. Role Summary The Manager, Sponsor & Exhibitor Services leads the operational execution of all sponsor and select exhibitor activation builds at Fanatics Fest and other Fanatics Events properties. This role owns the physical activation lifecycle inside the venue, ensuring that sponsor booths, branded environments, and in-venue signage are compliant, on schedule, and on budget. Working closely with the Partnerships team, event operations, sponsor agencies, and the show contractor (Freeman), this role oversees activation design approvals, EAC coordination, and onsite installation management. This role does not own broader sponsorship fulfillment (talent, content, marketing assets, etc.). Instead, the Manager is the internal expert responsible for translating sponsor activation concepts into real, compliant builds inside the Javits Center.

Requirements

5+ years experience in trade show operations, convention center services, or large-scale event production
Prior experience working with major show contractors such as Freeman, GES, or similar organizations
Deep knowledge of Javits Center operational rules strongly preferred
Experience managing custom exhibit builds or large-scale brand activations
Strong project management skills with the ability to manage multiple builds simultaneously
Ability to coordinate agencies, contractors, and internal teams under tight deadline
Direct communicator comfortable interacting with sponsors, vendors, and production partners
Experience building and improving operational processes

Responsibilities

Own the operational execution of sponsor and select exhibitor builds once partnership agreements are finalized.
Manage the full activation build lifecycle from concept approval through onsite installation
Coordinate with sponsor agencies, Exhibitor Appointed Contractors (EACs), and the show contractor (Freeman)
Ensure builds meet venue requirements, safety regulations, and event timelines
Track and enforce deadlines for design submissions, approvals, freight, and installation
Provide operational guidance to sponsors and agencies on venue constraints and best practices
Serve as the internal expert on Javits Center rules, labor, and build regulations.
Manage production and installation of sponsor-related graphics throughout the venue.
Lead the booth approval process for large or complex sponsor activations.
Work closely with the Partnerships team to ensure activation deliverables are tracked and executed.
Lead the installation and move-in process for sponsor activations during event build week.
Oversee the Sponsor Concierge team during event build and show days.