State Fair & Grounds Executive Director
Listed on 2026-10-18
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Management
General Management
Open Until Filled
GENERAL DESCRIPTION:The Wyoming State Fair Board seeks a forward-thinking executive leader for the Wyoming Department of Agriculture, Wyoming State Fair Division. The Wyoming State Fair Manager leads both the annual Wyoming State Fair and the Wyoming State Fairgrounds & Events Complex, a year-round public event destination hosting more than 400 interim events annually. Grounded in Agriculture, Education, Youth and Western Lifestyle, this role builds on the organization's progress through strategic leadership, staff development, revenue growth, partnerships and implementation of the expanded master plan.
The manager reports to the Wyoming State Fair Board and works with the Department of Agriculture and governmental partners to steward public resources, strengthen the Wyoming State Fair brand and grow the complex's statewide impact.
Working for the State of Wyoming offers more than a paycheck. Our total compensation package includes:
Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance
Paid vacation, sick leave, FMLA, and holidays
Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) eligibility
Retirement - Pension and 457(b) plans that help you build a secure future
Flexible schedules and work-life balance options
Meaningful work that makes a difference for Wyoming communities
and MUCH MORE! for detailed information, oryou can watch this short video to learn about our benefits package!
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ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS: The listed functions are illustrative only and are not intended to describe every function which may be performed in the job level.
- Provide executive leadership for the annual Wyoming State Fair and year-round Fairgrounds & Events Complex; translate board direction into strategic priorities, measurable goals and operational results.
- Lead planning, production and financial performance of the annual Fair while preserving its agricultural mission, youth development, education, Western lifestyle and statewide significance.
- Oversee entertainment, livestock shows, rodeo, competitive exhibits, admissions, ticketing, vendors, concessions, parking,security, accessibility, guest services and event logistics.
- Lead recruitment, retention and growth of more than 400 interim events annually, including equine and livestock events, trade shows, public gatherings and private events.
- Set direction for the Partnerships & Events function; empower staff to manage bookings, event execution, customer relationships and administrative details.
- Expand facility utilization, repeat business and earned revenue through new markets, programming, effective promotion and astrong customer experience.
- Directly supervise employees assigned under the current organizational structure, which includes more than two direct reports; lead the full-time, seasonal, temporary, contracted and volunteer workforce.
- Recruit, evaluate, coach and develop staff; establish clear expectations, delegate authority, accountability, succession capacity and a professional, collaborative workplace.
- Remain engaged in operations, inspect work in progress, remove barriers and resolve staff, customer and exhibitor concerns promptly and fairly.
- Develop, manage and monitor operating, event and capital budgets; maintain fiscal controls, forecasting, financial reporting and effective cost management.
- Set goals for revenue diversification through rentals, sponsor ships, concessions, ticketing, partnerships, grants, donations,gifts and other lawful opportunities.
- Direct procurement and bid preparation; negotiate and oversee significant contracts in accordance with state requirements and delegated authority.
- Oversee facilities, arenas, buildings, fairgrounds, utilities, campground and infrastructure; prioritize preventive maintenance,safety, accessibility and asset preservation.
- Lead the expanded master plan and capital improvements, working with the State Construction Department and partners from planning and funding through construction and closeout.
- Maintain strong relationships with agricultural organizations, 4-H, FFA, exhibitors, superintendents, veterinarians, sponsors,concessionaires and event producers.
- Ensure consistent administration of livestock,…
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