Tradeshow Manager

Overview

The MIC’s AIMExpo team is looking for a Tradeshow Manager to join the team. This position is responsible for the strategic planning, vendor and partner management, on-site logistics and execution of a large national tradeshow with international reach.  It is essential that AIMExpo provides value and ROI for OEMs, aftermarket companies, and dealers alike. AIMExpo utilizes over 300,000 net square feet of exhibit space, has over 5,000 attendees and attracts nearly 400 exhibitors representing powersports manufacturers, aftermarket brands and service providers.  Reporting to the Director of Marketing & Events, the Show Manager will translate high-level creative vision into actionable operational plans, while managing the day-to-day details that ensure the tradeshow runs seamlessly.

The ideal candidate will be highly organized, an exceptional communicator, a strong negotiator, and passionate about powersports and have extensive tradeshow management experience.

Key Responsibilities: 
Strategic & Operational Management 
Translate the Directors Creative vision into executable operational plans
Manage timelines, workflows, and daily project coordination
Oversee exhibitor services, education partners, and participant logistics
Develop education schedules, manage speakers, and coordinate session topics

Vendor & Partner Relations 
Negotiate and manage contracts with venues, hotels, contractors, and service providers
Oversee registration, AV, security, and exhibitor services
Ensure cost-effective solutions that meet the Association’s best interests

Marketing & Experience
Support promotional strategies to attract exhibitors, sponsors, and attendees
Identify and develop creative sponsorship opportunities
Innovate attendee experiences that maximize engagement and ROI
Collaborate with exhibitors and the sales team on custom branding opportunities

Team Leadership & Event Execution
Supervise support staff before, during and after the event
Lead onsite management of booth installations, show operations, and attendee services
Oversee compliance with safety and trade show regulations
Manage the show journey from move-in through move-out

Budget & Reporting 
Manage operational budgets and track expenses against forecast
Provide reporting on vendor costs, exhibitor satisfactions, and staff utilization
Conduct post-show evaluations and recommend improvements

Qualifications & Key Competencies: 
Trade Show Experience: 7+ years of experience in trade show, expo, or large-scale event management, ideally within the powersports or related lifestyle industries. Proven track record of successfully directing expos with 5,000+ attendees and significant exhibitor/sponsor participation.
Strategic Translator: Able to take big-picture creative direction and translate it into actionable plans that deliver measurable results.
Operational Excellence: Highly organized with a proven ability to manage complex processes, budgets, and timelines while maintaining attention to detail and anticipate issues before they become critical obstacles.
Creative Problem Solver: Thrives in fast-paced environments, bringing innovative ideas and practical solutions that enhance both exhibitor and attendee experiences.
Relationship Builder: Skilled at cultivating strong, trust-based relationships with vendors, partners, and stakeholders to drive collaboration and shared success.
Leadership with Impact: Inspires, motivates, and manages teams—both permanent and temporary—by fostering accountability, teamwork, and a customer-first mindset.
Negotiation and Financial Acumen: Confident negotiator who consistently secures favorable terms while ensuring fiscal responsibility and maximum value.
Communication and Influence: Clear, persuasive, and adaptable communicator who engages effectively across all levels, from executives to front-line staff.
Resilience and Composure: Calm, resourceful, and decisive under pressure, ensuring smooth event execution even in high-pressure situations.
Innovation Mindset: Continuously seeks opportunities to improve, enhance, and be innovative, whether in processes, attendee experiences, or stakeholder engagement.

The American International Motorcycle Expo is North America’s largest powersports trade show with global reach. The Motorcycle Industry Council hosts this exposition on an annual basis to help Connect, Engage, and Unite the industry to address the opportunities and challenges in the powersports industry. AIMExpo 2026 will take place January 7–9, 2026, at the Anaheim Convention Center in Southern California. For more information, visit www.AIMExpoUSA.com.

The Motorcycle Industry Council provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.

This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.
The MIC provides a comprehensive benefits program to include PTO, Paid Holidays, medical, dental, vision, and retirement.

Salary Range for this position: 110k-120k

To be considered for this position, please send an email to Recruiting@mic.org with your full name, cover letter, resume, and salary requirements. Use “Tradeshow Manager” Submission as the subject line.

Please, no recruiter phone calls. Thank you.