Director of Strategic Operations

Cheyenne Frontier Days (CFD) is the world’s premier western celebration, held annually in Cheyenne, Wyoming. With a legacy spanning over a century, CFD honors western heritage through world-class rodeo, entertainment, parades, and community events. Our mission is to possess and expand the ability to produce and promote the premier western celebration in the world—creating lasting economic and social impact while preserving, promoting, and educating others about our rich western history.

The Director of Strategic Operations is a key executive leadership role responsible for overseeing and optimizing day-to-day operations across the entire Cheyenne Frontier Days organization. Reporting directly to the CEO, they will play a critical part in evolving the operational structure and executing a long-term vision for continued large-scale growth. This role requires a proactive, highly driven leader with deep experience in complex event operations, organizational leadership, and people management.

• Leads and manages all operational aspects of Cheyenne Frontier Days, ensuring smooth and efficient execution of the event.
• Partner closely with executive leadership and the General Committee to align day-to-day operations with strategic goals.
• Coordinate with department heads across marketing, ticketing, sponsor ships, merchandise, volunteer coordination, concessions, entertainment, and more to ensure seamless cross-functional operations.
• Work closely with the General Committee, which includes contract acts, concessions, rodeo, public relations, Indians, military, grounds, operations, parades to ensure cohesion between the committee and staff and contract operations.
• Establish KPIs and metrics to evaluate operational efficiency and propose data-driven improvements.
• Drive process development and execution while maintaining CFD’s high standards of safety, compliance, and public impact.
• Manage budget development and oversee financial performance in collaboration with the finance department, ensuring cost-effective operations.
• Act as a representative of CFD with sponsors, community partners, vendors, and the public to promote long-term partnerships and growth.
• Provide leadership to both paid staff and the volunteer network, promoting a positive and collaborative work culture.

• Bachelor’s degree in business administration, management, event management, or a related field (advanced degree preferred)
• 5+ years of experience in operations management, event management, or a similar role, preferably within a large-scale event, festival or entertainment.
• Exceptional leadership and interpersonal skills with the ability to inspire, unify, and effectively manage a diverse mix of staff, high-volume volunteers, and committee members across all levels of an organization.
• Forward-thinking and strategic mindset with the ability to identify opportunities for growth, innovation, and long-term improvement across both the organization and its signature event.
• Proven experience in managing budgets, operations, and logistics for large-scale events.
• Excellent problem-solving skills and ability to work under pressure.
• Familiarity with the western lifestyle and values of Cheyenne Frontier Days is highly desirable.
• Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively with executive leadership, boards, and committees.

10–12% annual performance bonus

• Monthly Health Stipend
• Paid vision and dental coverage
• 401K with 4% employer match