Senior Project Manager (Tradeshows, Exhibits & Events)

Jack Morton Worldwide•Dayton, NJ

About The Position

At Jack Morton, we create and build brand experiences that are head-turning, smile-inducing, and impact-driving. We aim to redefine what experiential marketing can achieve, helping clients unlock the full value of experiences. This role is for an experienced Senior Project Manager to lead large-scale tradeshow, exhibit, and experiential marketing projects from kickoff through final execution. You will partner with clients, creative teams, production, logistics, and vendors to ensure every detail comes together seamlessly—on time, on budget, and above expectations. This is a highly visible role for a strategic thinker, exceptional communicator, and natural leader who thrives on seeing months of planning come to life on the show floor.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
10+ years of project management experience in tradeshows, exhibits, experiential marketing, live events, or a related industry.
Demonstrated success leading large, complex projects from concept through completion.
Strong expertise in project planning, scheduling, budgeting, forecasting, and resource management.
Experience managing vendors, production partners, logistics, and installation teams.
Ability to read and interpret technical drawings, blueprints, and production specifications.
Outstanding communication, negotiation, leadership, and stakeholder management skills.
Strong analytical thinking with the ability to solve problems quickly and effectively.
Willingness to travel frequently, including weekends, to support onsite event execution.
Proficiency with project management software and collaboration tools.
Experience with ERP systems, including Microsoft Dynamics or similar platforms.
Advanced Microsoft Excel and Microsoft Office skills.
Strong financial management, reporting, forecasting, and budget tracking capabilities.

Responsibilities

Lead Projects from Vision to Reality: Own the full project lifecycle—from client kickoff and planning through design, fabrication, installation, onsite execution, and post-event wrap-up.
Develop comprehensive project plans, timelines, milestones, and deliverables.
Keep projects on track while balancing quality, budget, and deadlines.
Drive Operational Excellence: Build and manage project budgets, forecasts, and resource plans.
Monitor project performance and proactively identify opportunities to improve efficiency.
Coordinate internal teams and external partners to ensure flawless execution.
Be the Trusted Client Partner: Serve as the primary operational lead for clients and internal stakeholders.
Provide clear, proactive communication on project progress, schedules, risks, and solutions.
Build strong relationships across Client Services, Account Management, Production, Operations, Finance, and executive leadership.
Manage Vendors & Event Logistics: Source, negotiate, and oversee vendors, contractors, freight providers, and show service partners.
Coordinate shipping, installation and dismantle (I&D), labor scheduling, and onsite logistics.
Ensure exhibits move seamlessly from warehouse to show floor.
Lead High-Performing Teams: Guide cross-functional teams through every phase of project execution.
Mentor and support project management team members, sharing best practices and industry knowledge.
Foster a collaborative, solutions-focused culture that delivers exceptional client experiences.
Solve Problems Before They Happen: Anticipate risks and develop contingency plans before issues arise.
Navigate changing priorities with confidence while keeping projects moving forward.
Make informed decisions that protect project timelines, budgets, and client satisfaction.
Ensure Quality & Technical Excellence: Review technical drawings, production specifications, and construction details for accuracy.
Partner with production teams to ensure builds meet design intent and quality standards.
Maintain compliance with venue regulations, safety requirements, and operational best practices.
Deliver Meaningful Results: Reconcile project costs, labor, materials, vendor expenses, and service fees.
Analyze project performance, identify budget variances, and capture lessons learned.
Support accurate invoicing and post-project financial reporting.