Fair Promoter

Location: Stark County Fairgrounds – Canton, Ohio

Reports To: Stark County Agricultural Society Board of Directors

Employment Type: Full-Time (Year-Round)

The Fair Promoter is responsible for assisting the Stark County Agricultural Society in the planning, organization, and execution of the annual Stark County Fair, as well as the promotion and management of year-round operations at the Stark County Fairgrounds. This individual serves as a key administrative and operational leader, ensuring that the fairgrounds are run efficiently, safely, and in alignment with the mission of the Stark County Agricultural Society.

The Fair Promoter acts as a liaison between the Board of Directors, staff, vendors, exhibitors, sponsors, volunteers, and the community.

The Stark County Agricultural Society is managed by an elected board of volunteers throughout Stark County. This board holds an annual Reorganizational Meeting where officers are elected, and management committees are assigned. This board, also known as the Senior Fair Board, is responsible for all aspects of the County Fairground as well as events held at the fairgrounds, including the annual County Fair.

The Fair Promoter is responsible for working in concert with the Senior Fair Board to enhance the mission of the Stark County Agricultural Society.

• Pursue new and foster existing partnerships with local businesses and organizations to enhance the association through both financial and physical resources.
• In coordination with the advertising and marketing committee, develop and implement marketing, advertising, and public relations strategies to promote the annual county fair and other fairground events.
• Work to develop programing which will utilize the fairgrounds year-round.
• Coordinate with agricultural exhibitors, vendors, concessionaires, and carnival operators to ensure smooth operations and compliance with fair policies.
• Ensure all events meet safety, health, and regulatory requirements established by the Ohio Department of Agriculture and local authorities.
• Pursue sponsor ships, grants, and fundraising opportunities to support fairgrounds operations and improvements.
• Prepare reports and present updates to the Board of Directors regularly.

• Develop and implement year-round facility rental programs for community events, expos, and other activities.
• In coordination with the Building and Grounds Committee, oversee and support any off-season events utilizing the fairgrounds to ensure compliant and safe operation.
• Promote and support capital building campaigns designated by the board of directors.

• Serve as the primary public representative for the Stark County Fair.
• Build partnerships with local schools, 4-H clubs, FFA chapters, civic groups, and businesses.
• Promote agricultural education and engagement through community outreach and programming.

• Recruit, train, and manage staff and volunteers for fair and non-fair events.
• Foster a positive, team-oriented work culture emphasizing customer service and community values.
• Ensure compliance with all labor and safety regulations.

• Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Event Management, Public Relations, Agriculture, or a related field (or equivalent experience) is preferred.
• Minimum of 3–5 years of experience in event management, fair or festival operations, or agricultural society administration.
• Strong leadership, organizational, and communication skills.
• Experience managing budgets, contracts, and staff.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays, particularly during the fair season.
• Proficiency with standard office software and fair management systems.
• Familiarity with agricultural programming, livestock exhibitions, and community events preferred.
• Competitive salary commensurate with experience.
• Incentive based commission compensation package.
• Opportunities for professional development through the Ohio Fair Managers Association and related organizations.

Interested candidates should submit a cover letter, resume, and three professional references to:

Stark County Agricultural Society

Attn:
Board of Directors

Final date to receive applications: Applications will be accepted with a until January 30, 2026 at 12:00 pm.