Chief Operating Officer (Experiential Marketing Agency) at TalentSquare

Job Summary

• The COO will serve as a key member of the executive team, overseeing the agency's day-to-day operational functions and ensuring we deliver exceptional client experiences. This individual will work closely with the CEO to translate the agency’s strategic goals into actionable initiatives and manage a diverse team across operations, production, client services, and project management. The ideal candidate will bring a mix of strategic insight, operational rigor, and a passion for experiential marketing, ensuring that the agency remains at the forefront of the industry.

Key Responsibilities

Operational Leadership

• Lead and manage day-to-day operations across all departments, ensuring processes are streamlined, efficient, and deliver the highest quality of service to clients. Develop and maintain operational best practices that align with the company’s commitment to innovation and excellence.
• Continually assess and refine operational processes to boost productivity, scalability, and responsiveness to client demands. Identify and implement technology solutions or systems that enhance operational workflows.
• Work closely with marketing, creative, and production teams to ensure seamless integration of operational strategies with the agency’s creative objectives, supporting a unified approach to project execution.

Strategic Planning

• Collaborate with the CEO and executive team to define and execute the agency's strategic roadmap. This includes setting ambitious growth targets, identifying new opportunities, and expanding the agency’s market presence.
• Leverage data and insights to inform and support strategic decisions. Provide recommendations that enhance operational efficiency, support profitability, and contribute to long-term business goals.
• Ensure that operational plans align with the overall business strategy and contribute to achieving both short-term and long-term objectives, positioning the agency as a leader in experiential marketing.

Client and Project Management

• Foster and maintain strong client relationships, ensuring a deep understanding of their business needs, brand vision, and expectations. Act as a trusted advisor, advocating for client satisfaction at every stage of the project.
• Oversee project management teams in delivering high-quality experiential campaigns, from conception to execution, while adhering to timelines and budgets. Address client concerns and ensure prompt, proactive communication throughout the project lifecycle.
• Establish and uphold standards for campaign quality, innovation, and brand alignment, ensuring all projects reflect the agency’s standards of excellence.

Financial Management

• Work with finance teams to oversee budgeting, forecasting, and financial planning for operational needs. Ensure effective cost management practices that support project profitability and overall financial health.
• Ensure optimal allocation of resources, including staffing, materials, and technology, to meet client needs while maintaining budget discipline.
• Provide regular financial performance reports to the executive team, offering insights and identifying opportunities for cost efficiency and revenue growth.

Team Leadership and Development

• Create a high-performance culture that emphasizes collaboration, accountability, and innovation. Motivate and mentor team members to achieve their best.
• Develop and implement training programs to enhance the skills and capabilities of the operations team. Identify opportunities for professional growth within the team, supporting both individual career goals and the agency’s objectives.
• Promote open communication, cross-departmental collaboration, and a shared commitment to the agency’s values and vision.

Risk Management

• Identify operational risks, both current and potential, that could impact the agency’s projects, client satisfaction, or reputation. Establish a proactive approach to managing and mitigating these risks.
• Ensure the agency complies with all relevant industry regulations, standards, and best practices, maintaining a reputation for integrity and reliability.
• Develop and implement contingency plans to address unforeseen challenges, ensuring the agency’s ability to adapt and maintain service continuity in changing circumstances.