Automation Alley

Compensation

Full Description

Automation Alley is seeking an organized, driven, and versatile professional to join our team in a role that blends event and expo management with grant program operations. The ideal candidate thrives in a fast-paced environment, enjoys managing multiple projects simultaneously, and is energized by the opportunity to represent Michigan’s manufacturing ecosystem on a regional and national stage. As a key member of the Automation Alley team, this position will lead the planning and execution of trade show pavilions, expos, and member-facing events — many of which are key deliverables tied to federal and state-funded grant programs. The role also directly supports the grant department and will require grant partner coordination, contract administration, and metric tracking. The ideal candidate is detail-oriented, highly organized, an excellent communicator, and comfortable managing relationships with external partners, vendors, and member companies. They are equally confident running the logistics of a trade show booth and grant programs. This position is full time (M–F, 8:30 – 5:00) and requires periodic travel to industry trade shows, conferences, and member events. Key Responsibilities Events, Expos & Pavilion Management • Lead end-to-end planning and execution of Automation Alley’s presence at trade shows, industry conferences, and expos, including pavilions that host member and partner companies under the Automation Alley brand • Manage booth and pavilion logistics: floor plans, exhibitor coordination, shipping, installation and dismantle, staffing schedules, collateral, signage, and on-site execution • Coordinate member and partner participation in pavilions, including onboarding, contract execution, payment tracking, booth assignments, and day-of support • Plan and execute Automation Alley-hosted events, receptions, member events, and program-driven convenings • Manage event budgets, negotiate with venues and vendors, and ensure every event is delivered on time and on budget • Serve as the primary point of contact for event venues, general service contractors, AV providers, caterers, and other event vendors Grant Program Support & Operations • Support grant programs in the day-to-day administration of federal, state, county or foundation-funded programs • Track grant deliverables, milestones, and reporting deadlines to ensure compliance with funder requirements • Coordinate grant-funded events and activities, ensuring alignment between event execution and grant scopes of work • Assist in the preparation of grant reports, narratives, and supporting documentation • Respond to member and partner requests for grant-related support and information • Manage tactical projects in support of grant program managers, with the opportunity to grow into a grant program manager role as the grant portfolio expands Partner & Contract Management • Serve as a key liaison with external partners, sponsors, member companies, and subrecipients participating in events and grant programs • Manage contracts, memorandums of understanding, sponsorship agreements, and exhibitor agreements, from initial drafting through signature and execution • Track contract deliverables, payment schedules, and renewal dates • Coordinate with internal finance and operations teams to ensure timely invoicing, payment, and documentation Metric Tracking & Reporting • Track, analyze, and report on event outcomes, attendance, engagement, and pavilion performance metrics • Capture grant program metrics (participant counts, engagements, jobs impacted, etc.) and maintain accurate documentation for audits and reporting • Maintain databases and CRM records related to events, members, partners, and grant participants • Produce regular status updates, dashboards, and post-event reports for internal leadership and external funders Core Skills & Qualifications • Bachelor’s degree in business, project management, communications, public administration, or a related field preferred • 3+ years of experience in event management, trade show coordination, program management, or grant operations preferred • Proven ability to manage multiple projects, deadlines, and external partners simultaneously • Experience working with contracts, vendors, and sponsor/partner agreements • Strong organizational and time management skills with exceptional attention to detail • Excellent written and verbal communication skills • Strong quantitative and analytical skills, with the ability to track metrics and produce clear reports • Proficient in Microsoft 365 (Outlook, Word, Excel, Teams, SharePoint) and comfortable learning internal tools such as Trello and Zoho (or similar CRM) • Experience with federal or state-funded grant programs strongly preferred • Experience in the non-profit or manufacturing ecosystem preferred • Willingness and ability to travel to trade shows and industry events as required • Collaborative team player with a problem-solving mindset and a passion for a high-energy environment Benefits Full benefits (health, eye, dental) 3 weeks’ PTO Paid Holidays • New Year’s Day – January 1 • Martin Luther King’s Day – The third Monday in January • President’s Day – The third Monday in February • Memorial Day – The last Monday in May • Independence Day – July 4 • Labor Day – The first Monday in September • Veterans’ Day – November 11 • Thanksgiving Day • Friday after Thanksgiving • Christmas Week – December 24 – December 31