Director of Operations, ImageSFX at Image Engineering Special Effects Inc

Glen Burnie, Maryland, United States -

Full Time

Start Date

Immediate

Expiry Date

12 Mar, 26

Salary

125000.0

Posted On

12 Dec, 25

Experience

5 year(s) or above

Remote Job

Yes

Telecommute

Yes

Sponsor Visa

Skills

Leadership, Operations Management, Touring Logistics, Project Management, Budgeting, Client Relations, Negotiation, Safety Regulations, Financial Management, Team Building, Communication, Problem Solving, Collaboration, Performance Metrics, Technical Talent Development, Pyrotechnics

Industry

Events Services

Description

Description Role Description Location: Baltimore, MD Reports To: Chief Executive Officer, ImageSFX Travel: (35-40%) Primarily domestic; international as required Salary Range: $115,000 — $125,000 Position Overview: The Director of Operations serves as the operational and strategic leader of ImageSFX, overseeing all touring pyrotechnics and special effects activities for major concert tours, live events, and international productions. Based in Baltimore, MD, this individual manages multi-state operations (Baltimore, Las Vegas, Lititz offices), leads a team of project managers, and coordinates complex logistics involving subcontractors, artists, and production teams. This role drives excellence, accountability, and innovation across the organization while ensuring smooth collaboration with the CEO and key stakeholders. The ideal candidate combines hands-on operational acumen, strong leadership, and deep familiarity with live entertainment touring logistics. Key Responsibilities: Leadership & Management Lead Operations, supervising project managers, coordinators, and field technicians across the company. Serve as the operational right hand to the CEO—providing guidance, structure, and consistent communication to ensure organizational priorities are met. Build and develop a strong, cohesive team culture emphasizing accountability, safety, and performance excellence. Mentor project managers in budgeting, client relations, and tour management best practices. Represent ImageSFX with professionalism and authority in all external engagements, including client meetings, vendor negotiations, and industry events. Touring & Project Oversight Oversee all touring projects from concept through execution, including scheduling, logistics, budgeting, and personnel assignments. Coordinate multi-tour operations, ensuring efficient allocation of equipment, materials, and personnel. Negotiate subcontractor and vendor agreements, managing rates, scopes of work, and performance standards. Work closely with Compliance Team to ensure all federal, state, and international regulations & permitting requirements governing pyrotechnics and special effects operations are planned for and met. Work closely with clients, production managers, and artists to deliver world-class effects safely, on time, and within budget. Supervise international touring logistics, particularly in Europe, including shipping, customs, and on-site execution. Financial Management Develop and manage departmental and company-wide operating budgets, including revenue forecasting and expense control. Review and approve project budgets, quotes, and subcontractor expenses to ensure profitability and adherence to financial goals. Oversee cost analysis, vendor payment schedules, and financial reporting for all touring projects. Collaborate with accounting and executive teams on financial planning, contract compliance, and strategic investments. Operational Development Design and implement scalable operational systems and standard operating procedures for touring logistics, inventory control, and personnel deployment. Spearhead the build-out and operational planning of ImageSFX’s facilities at Rock Lititz, coordinating with contractors, vendors, and internal stakeholders. Drive cross-departmental collaboration between Production, Creative, Warehouse, and Administrative teams to streamline workflows. Evaluate and manage performance metrics for touring operations, ensuring efficiency, safety, and client satisfaction. Support the recruitment and development of new technical and production talent to meet expanding operational needs. Client & Stakeholder Relations Serve as the primary point of contact for clients, artists, and production partners during active tours. Maintain long-term relationships with clients, artists’ management, and production professionals to drive repeat business and enhance the ImageSFX brand. Collaborate closely with the CEO to manage high-value client relationships and sensitive negotiations. Requirements Bachelor’s degree in Business, Production Management, or a related field; equivalent industry experience strongly considered. Minimum 5+ years of experience in touring operations, live production, or large-scale entertainment logistics, including leadership responsibilities. Excellent communication skills; able to navigate high-pressure environments and manage demanding stakeholders with tact and diplomacy. Proven experience managing multi-site operations and distributed teams. Deep understanding of pyrotechnics, special effects, live touring production, and related safety regulations. Strong negotiation and contract management skills. Exceptional organizational and leadership abilities, with a hands-on, detail-oriented approach. Financial acumen with experience developing and managing multimillion-dollar budgets. Willingness to travel domestically and occasionally internationally as project demands require. Preferred Attributes Experience with Rock Lititz or similar production campus environments. Familiarity with DOT, NFPA, and ATF regulations for pyrotechnic transportation and storage. Knowledge of international touring logistics, customs documentation, and freight forwarding. Collaborative and proactive leadership style with a high degree of emotional intelligence. Comfortable working closely with a creative, hands-on CEO who values transparency and operational excellence.

Responsibilities

The Director of Operations oversees all touring pyrotechnics and special effects activities, managing multi-state operations and leading a team of project managers. This role involves ensuring smooth collaboration with the CEO and key stakeholders while driving excellence and innovation across the organization.