Spotlight Event Manager

VARSITY SPIRIT, A VARSITY BRANDS COMPANY - THE DRIVING FORCE IN SPIRIT ACROSS CHEER, DANCE, BAND AND YEARBOOK

For over 50 years, Varsity Spirit has been the leading global source for all things spirit, including cheerleading, dance team, performing arts and yearbook. Focused on safety, entertainment and traditional school leadership, Varsity Spirit’s 5,000+ employees are dedicated to celebrating school spirit. A leader in apparel innovation, educational camps, clinics, competitions, and yearbook, Varsity Spirit impacts more than a million athletes each year.

OUR COMMITMENT TO SAFETY

At Varsity Spirit, the safety and wellbeing of the young people we serve is of the utmost importance. Since our inception 50 years ago, we have been – and remain – steadfastly committed to doing our part to create a safe and positive environment for our participants’ physical, emotional, and social development, and promoting an environment free from abuse and misconduct. Varsity has a zero tolerance for abuse in its programs, events, and associated business activities. Varsity is committed to reporting all suspicions, allegations, and incidents of abuse in full accordance with local laws and reporting requirements. Learn more at Our Commitment to Safety - Varsity.com.

Spotlight Events, Inc. is a purpose-driven organization headquartered in Eagle, Idaho. For nearly three decades, our brands—Spotlight Dance Cup and LEAP National Dance Competition—have stood at the forefront of the competitive dance industry, producing approximately 90 events in 30 states and 50+ cities annually.

Our Mission is simple: Inspire and Celebrate Young Adults through the Arts. Powered by the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS) and grounded in accountability, excellence, and growth, we are rapidly expanding our national footprint and seeking dynamic leaders who can grow with us.

Work Type: Contract/Seasonal

Location: Remote Position (Travel Required)

Pay Range: Per-event stipend + Travel Reimbursement, DOE

Travel Required: Travel is required during our event season (January–July), and team members must reside within reasonable proximity to a U.S. international airport or hub to accommodate frequent travel.

On average, the role involves attending approximately 6–10 regional events each year, typically lasting 3–5 days, with the possibility of 1–2 national events lasting 6–8 days

HOW YOU WILL MAKE AN IMPACT:

We are seeking experienced Event Managers with superior organization and time management skills, strong attention to detail, and excellent follow-through. The ideal candidate excels in customer service & team management, thrives in a live-event setting, and can manage multiple demands while keeping composure. Strong interpersonal, oral, and written communication skills are essential, along with critical thinking, problem-solving, analytical, and decision-making abilities.

If this is you, consider joining us as we grow and doing amazing things in the performing arts industry!

WHAT YOU WILL DO:

The Event Manager oversees the execution of Spotlight and LEAP events, ensuring smooth logistics, staff management, and exceptional client experience. This role includes leading event staff, resolving challenges in real time, and collaborating with technical and production teams to maintain Spotlight’s high standards for service and professionalism.

Key Responsibilities

• Act as Main Tabulator, overseeing scoring and ensuring a fair, unbiased competition while maintaining a thorough understanding of Spotlight Dance Cup & Leap National Dance Competition rules
• Lead staff to deliver successful events, supporting multiple positions to ensure team members receive adequate breaks and assistance
• Provide guidance and, when necessary, take disciplinary action to maintain professionalism and event standards
• Deliver exceptional client relations, addressing any issues with empathy and professionalism
• Present awards on stage and step into the Show Director role when required
• Collaborate with Technical Assistants and facility representatives to ensure smooth operations for participants and attendees

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Prior experience in event management, production, or competitive dance environments (Preferred)
• Experience managing staff and live event logistics (Preferred)
• Knowledge of dance competition rules is beneficial
• Experience in the dance field, particularly competitive dance judging or event management
• Strong desire to work in competitive dance environments with a commitment to the value of the arts
• Public speaking and performance experience
• Advanced computer skills, including Microsoft Outlook, Word, and Excel
• Excellent critical thinking, problem-solving, time management and decision-making skills
• Ability to maintain professionalism in high-pressure situations

TRAINING:

All new/first year event staff are required to attend an audition and training session in Eagle, Idaho (Typically hosted January 4th–8th). Spotlight provides flights, transport, lodging, and meals. Travel may occur one day before or after the scheduled dates.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

Physical demands include lifting up to 50 pounds, setting up equipment, and working in a variety of environments, such as event venues, hotels, and stages. Staff members must also be comfortable sharing hotel accommodations with same-gender colleagues during event assignments.

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities required of the employee for this job.

OUR VALUES

Service - We lead with heart. We champion community.

Passion - We love what we do. It fuels our purpose.

Integrity - We do what we promise. We own our actions and decisions.

Respect - We earn it by giving it. Because everyone deserves it.

Innovation - We never stop striving to be better. For ourselves and our community.

Transparency - We are committed to openness and honesty in everything we do.

OUR BENEFITS

We are committed to putting you and your families first. For benefits eligible roles, we offer a variety of choices and costs as well as program enhancements that align with our responsibility to elevate the employee experience. Some of our offerings include:

• Comprehensive Health Care Benefits
• HSA Employer Contribution/ FSA Opportunities
• Wellbeing Program
• 401(k) plan with company matching
• Company paid Life, AD&D, and Short-Term Disability
• Generous My Time Off & Paid Holidays
• Varsity Brands Ownership Program
• Employee Resource Groups
• Access to Financial Coaching and member-owned Credit Union
• St. Jude Partnership & Volunteer Opportunities
• Employee Perks including discounts on personal apparel and equipment!

Eligibility for company-sponsored benefits is determined by scheduled work hours, and the terms of the applicable benefit plans. Benefit offerings and eligibility requirements may vary by position and are subject to change in accordance with plan documents and applicable law.

Varsity Brands companies are equal opportunity employers. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, citizenship, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran’s status, age or disability.