Event Operations Manager

TED is on a mission to discover and spread ideas that spark imagination, embrace possibility, and catalyze impact. Our organization is devoted to curiosity, reason, wonder, and the pursuit of knowledge — without an agenda. We welcome people from every discipline and culture who seek a deeper understanding of the world and connection with others, and we invite everyone to engage with ideas and activate them in your community.

TED is seeking an experienced and strategic Event Operations Manager, Logistics to lead core aspects of conference logistics and infrastructure across TED’s global events portfolio. This role sits within the Conference Operations team and is responsible for the execution and advancement of TED’s logistics, staffing, and security programs. From early-stage planning and procurement through onsite execution and crew oversight, the Event Operations Manager will ensure every moving part comes together to create world-class event experiences.

This is a leadership role requiring deep operational expertise, project management fluency, strong vendor and people management skills, and a solutions-focused mindset. You'll report to the Director of Event Operations and work closely with key internal stakeholders—including production, experience, food & beverage, partnerships, registration and others — to deliver TED’s flagship events with excellence, innovation, and care.

This position is remote, but requires regular travel (including international travel) for on-site event delivery.

Please include a cover letter with your application. We’d love to know why this role resonates with you.

RESPONSIBILITIES

Operational Leadership & Strategic Execution

• Lead end-to-end logistics planning for TED’s global events—including shipping, warehousing, venue buildout, inventory, production timelines, and backstage infrastructure—ensuring all plans reflect TED’s standards for excellence, sustainability, and accessibility.
• Drive the execution of complex, multi-vendor logistics programs across core areas: staffing, security, freight, and infrastructure.
• Serve as the primary onsite lead during flagship events, directing live logistics and ensuring seamless delivery across all operational zones.
• Build and maintain critical paths, production schedules, staffing frameworks, and vendor agreements to ensure milestones and strategic objectives are met.
• Manage detailed event budgets from development through reconciliation, in close collaboration with TED’s finance team.
• Support broader operational strategy through special projects, reporting, and ongoing contributions to cross-functional planning.

People Management & Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Oversee recruitment, onboarding, and performance management of contract logistics and event crew; set clear expectations, provide regular coaching, and foster a high-accountability team culture.
• Facilitate coordination across TED teams and partners, ensuring strong communication, aligned planning, and a shared commitment to operational excellence.
• Lead team meetings, monitor progress against deliverables, and model inclusive, solution-oriented leadership.

Vendor & Partner Oversight

• Manage vendor sourcing and contracting processes, including RFPs, negotiation, onboarding, and relationship management across logistics, security, staffing, and medical services.
• Maintain TED’s standards of service and delivery by cultivating trusted partnerships and contributing to preferred vendor strategy and long-term supplier development.
• Oversee all external partner logistics, from freight and customs coordination to dock scheduling and onsite execution.

Risk Management & Event Safety

• Direct security operations for TED events, including executive protection, venue security, and off-site activations, in coordination with internal advisors and external partners.
• Manage emergency response readiness, onsite medical services, VIP protocols, and health and safety compliance.
• Regularly review and update TED’s risk assessments, safety protocols, and duty of care documentation to ensure preparedness and accountability.

Qualifications

• 5–7+ years of experience in event operations, logistics, or large-scale live event planning
• 3+ years people management experience; adept at building culture and leading contract teams
• Proven expertise in vendor procurement, in-kind sponsor sourcing, contract negotiation, and RFP processes
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills; solutions-oriented and team-driven
• Experience managing budgets, scheduling tools, and post-event reconciliation
• Comfortable with backstage infrastructure and technical event requirements
• Familiarity with Google Workspace, Airtable, DocuSign, and project management platforms (e.g., Asana)
• Committed to TED’s mission and experienced in high-impact, mission-driven environments
• Willing and able to travel regularly for onsite event planning, pre-con walkthroughs, and multi-day event execution

SALARY RANGE: $75,000 – $95,000

BENEFITS

• Full health benefits (medical, dental, vision) 
• Paid family leave
• Work-life balance is encouraged through our flexible paid time off 
• Free OneMedical and SpringHealth membership for you and your dependents to address physical and mental well-being 
• 401k / RRSP with match

TED Conferences LLC is an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. We invite all qualified candidates to apply online with their resume and cover letter.