The Vice President of Human Resources - Exhibitions (VP, HR) is a hands-on, collaborative HR leader who reports directly to the CHRO and plays a critical role in driving a global people strategy that supports the fast‑paced, highly customer‑focused exhibitions and live events industry.
This leader not only operates strategically but is also deeply involved in the daily work of HR—coaching and developing HR team members, supporting Exhibitions leaders, and ensuring consistent execution of people programs worldwide. The ideal candidate thrives in a dynamic, high‑growth environment and brings a strong commitment to inclusivity, cultural intelligence, and leading high-performing HR teams.
Responsibilities:
Strategic People Leadership
- Partner with the CHRO to develop and execute a global HR strategy aligned to organizational goals.
- Serve as a trusted advisor to senior leadership.
- Balance strategy with a hands-on working style—rolling up sleeves to support complex issues, lead key initiatives, and guide the HR team through execution.
- Build strong global partnerships with leaders to ensure HR strategies reflect the business, workforce, and cultural needs.
Leadership of HR Team
- Directly lead, mentor, and develop HR team members, fostering a collaborative, accountable, and inclusive team culture.
- Drive consistency and alignment across the global HR function while enabling regional flexibility.
Global Talent Management
- Oversee global talent acquisition and workforce planning.
- Implement talent development and succession planning for critical roles across all lines of business.
- Ensure the employee experience supports high‑intensity periods, travel-heavy roles, and temporary event staffing.
ID&E Culture
- Partner with the CHRO to lead a global ID&E strategy that reflects the diverse communities served by exhibitions and events.
- Create a culture where employees of all backgrounds feel valued, safe, and included—whether working in offices, remotely, or onsite at events.
- Embed ID&E into talent practices, leadership development, and employee engagement programs.
Employee Relations & Global Compliance
- Serve as an escalation point for complex employee relations issues, providing hands-on support to HR team members.
- Ensure compliance with employment laws, vendor workforce standards, and safety requirements across all regions.
- Uphold confidentiality, ethical standards, and a balanced, people-centered approach to resolving issues.
Organizational Effectiveness & Change Leadership
- Lead change initiatives supporting digital transformation, growth, and innovation in event formats (live, hybrid, virtual).
- Leverage data and analytics to assess organizational health, workforce trends, and talent outcomes.
- Support the CHRO in integrating acquired brands, teams, and event portfolios.
Qualifications:
- 15+ years of progressive HR leadership experience with significant global exposure. Industry experience in exhibitions, live events, hospitality, sports, entertainment, or related sectors is strongly preferred.
- Demonstrated success leading, mentoring, and developing HR professionals across geographies.
- Hands-on leadership approach with the ability to balance strategic thinking and tactical execution.
- Strong background supporting mixed workforces (full-time, contingent, vendor, seasonal).
- Proven track record advancing ID&E initiatives with measurable outcomes.
- Excellent communication, relationship building, and problem-solving skills.
- Ability to travel internationally based on event schedules and business needs.
Leadership Competencies
- Hands-On Leadership: Actively supports and develops HR team members while leading by example.
- Inclusive Leadership: Creates belonging and psychological safety across diverse, distributed teams.
- Operational Agility: Thrives in fast-paced, deadline-driven event environments.
- Cultural Intelligence: Adapts communication and leadership across global regions and work environments.
- Strategic Influence: Builds trust with senior leaders and operational teams across the business.
- People-Centered Decision Making: Considers well‑being, safety, and equity in all HR practices.
Work Environment:
Our team members are our family, so we help our team members care for their families. The rewards of joining GES are extensive. We offer a comprehensive benefits package to all full-time employees. Here are some of the highlights:
- Competitive salaries
- 401K with company match
- Healthcare/vision/dental insurance
- Wellness benefits
- Career development program
- Employee assistance program
- Vacation time
- Community involvement opportunities
- Team activities
And much more……
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