Role description:

The Assistant Director of Operations supports the Director of Operations in helping FurSquared run smoothly before, during, and after the event. This role assists with event logistics, setup and teardown coordination, department support, communication with staff, and responding to operational needs as they arise. This position requires someone who is dependable, calm under pressure, and comfortable working in an active convention environment. Applicants should be capable of frequent walking throughout the venue, standing for extended periods, and lifting or moving items up to approximately 50 lbs. with or without reasonable accommodation.

Leadership expectations:

The Assistant Director of Operations is expected to maintain FurSquared leadership standards by completing at least 16 documented hours of work during the in-person event to remain in good standing with the organization. This role must follow, support, and help enforce the FurSquared Staff Code of Conduct while setting a positive example for staff and attendees. Any concerns, incidents, safety issues, or staff conduct matters should be properly escalated to the Director of Operations or the assigned Board Liaison in a timely and professional manner.

Assistant Directors are required to attend monthly meetings online and in person if the Director is unable to attend the meeting to ensure that a leadership presence is present during high level discussions.

Before the Event

• Assist the Director of Operations with planning, scheduling, and preparing operational needs for the event.
• Help coordinate setup plans with other departments, including room layouts, equipment needs, signage, and traffic flow.
• Track assigned Operations tasks, deadlines, and updates through FurSquared’s approved project management systems.
• Communicate with staff and leadership regarding operational needs, concerns, or missing information.
• Assist with preparing supplies, equipment, and materials needed for event setup.
• Attend required leadership meetings and provide updates when requested.
• Help identify possible safety, accessibility, or logistical concerns before the event begins.

During the Event

• Support the Director of Operations with daily event operations and on-site coordination.
• Walk the venue regularly to check event spaces, hallways, setup areas, and staff needs.
• Assist with setup, teardown, moving supplies, and lifting or transporting items as needed.
• Respond to operational requests from departments in a timely and professional manner.
• Help coordinate with Security, HR, Hotel Liaison, and the Board Liaison when issues require escalation.
• Monitor for safety concerns, blocked walkways, damaged equipment, or other logistical problems.
• Provide clear direction and support to Operations staff while maintaining a calm and professional presence.
• Escalate staff conduct concerns, safety issues, or unresolved problems to the Director of Operations or Board Liaison.

After the Event

• Assist with teardown, cleanup, equipment return, and final walkthroughs of event spaces.
• Help confirm that supplies, materials, and equipment are properly packed, stored, or returned.
• Report any damaged, missing, or misplaced items to the Director of Operations.
• Provide feedback on what worked well and what should be improved for the next event year.
• Assist with documenting post-event notes, concerns, and recommendations for future planning.
• Participate in post-event debriefs as requested by HR, the Director of Operations, or the Board Liaison.

Who'd make a great fit for this position?

This position is a great fit for someone who enjoys being active, helping solve problems, and supporting the behind the scenes work that keeps FurSquared running smoothly. Anyone who is dependable, hands on, calm under pressure, and excited to help staff and attendees have a successful event should absolutely apply!