Now Hiring - Fair Manager

Are you an experienced leader with a passion for community building, event management, and bringing people together?

The Grand Forks Fair is seeking a dynamic, organized, and community-oriented Fair Manager to oversee the planning, promotion, and execution of our annual fair and year-round events.

In this role, you will be the driving force behind the scenes—managing vendor relations, coordinating entertainment, overseeing operations, and working hand-in-hand with our board of directors, local volunteers, and county representatives.

Key Responsibilities

Event Planning & Execution: Direct all phases of the annual fair, including budgeting, scheduling, grounds layout, attractions, livestock and exhibit shows, and entertainment booking.

Vendor & Sponsor Relations: Cultivate and maintain strong relationships with commercial vendors, food trucks, carnival operators, corporate sponsors, and community stakeholders.

Operations & Facilities Management: Oversee fairgrounds maintenance, safety protocols, security, traffic flow coordination, and cleanup in coordination with local authorities and service providers.

Marketing & Public Relations: Champion the fair’s brand through traditional and digital marketing channels, press releases, social media, and community outreach to drive attendance.

Financial Oversight: Develop and manage the annual operating budget, monitor revenues and expenses, process payroll, and ensure financial accountability.

Volunteer & Staff Leadership: Recruit, train, and supervise seasonal staff and volunteers, fostering a positive, collaborative team environment.

Qualifications

Experience: Minimum of 3–5 in event management, or non-profit leadership, hospitality, or facility operations.

Leadership Skills: Proven ability to lead diverse teams, manage multiple priorities under tight deadlines, and make sound decisions under pressure.

Communication: Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with experience in public speaking, sponsor negotiations, and media relations.

Financial Acumen: Strong budgeting and financial management skills.

Technical Literacy: Proficiency with standard office software, event management tools, and social media platforms.

Flexibility: Willingness to work extended hours, evenings, and weekends during peak planning seasons and throughout the duration of the fair.

Pay : This is a part time salaried position DOE.

How to Apply

Please submit your resume, a cover letter detailing your relevant event management experience, and three professional references to info@grandforksfair.com

The Grand Forks Fair is an Equal Opportunity Employer.