Exhibitions Operations Manager

Rethink; England; Hybrid; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading event services company in the UK is seeking an experienced Operations Manager to oversee the delivery of international conferences and exhibitions focused on energy development across Africa. This hybrid role requires managing multiple projects, event operations budgets, and supplier contracts while ensuring high-quality delivery. Strong communication, attention to detail, and the ability to work under pressure are essential. Flexibility for international travel and evening/weekend work may be required.

Qualifications

• Proven experience delivering international conferences and exhibitions.
• Strong experience managing event operations budgets and suppliers.
• Ability to manage multiple projects in a fast-paced environment.

Responsibilities

• End-to-end operational delivery of international conferences and exhibitions.
• Ownership of event operations budgets, forecasting, and cost control.
• Supplier sourcing, contract negotiation, and venue management.

Skills

Event operations management

Budget management

Stakeholder management

Health & Safety knowledge

Multitasking ability

Communication skills

Job description

Operations Manager – Conferences & Exhibitions

We’re looking for an experienced Operations Manager to deliver and manage the operations of international conferences and exhibitions within a leading energy events portfolio focused on the development of energy across Africa.

This is a hands‑on role suited to someone who thrives in a fast‑paced environment, can manage multiple projects at once, and consistently delivers high‑quality events while maintaining strong attention to detail.

Key Responsibilities

• End‑to‑end operational delivery of 4–6 international conferences and exhibitions
• Ownership of event operations budgets, forecasting, and cost control
• Operational planning and timelines, working closely with senior stakeholders
• Supplier sourcing, contract negotiation, and venue management
• Design and management of floorplans, signage, and show guides
• Production of exhibitor technical information and manuals
• Delivery of sponsorship and exhibitor packages
• Management of onsite operations and international event delivery
• Full responsibility for Health & Safety, including risk assessments and documentation
• Post‑event evaluation and continuous improvement
• Collaboration with internal teams across operations, sales, marketing, and finance

Requirements

• Proven experience delivering international conferences and exhibitions
• Strong experience managing event operations budgets and suppliers
• Ability to manage multiple projects in a fast‑paced environment
• Knowledge of venue contracts and onsite Health & Safety processes
• Familiarity with e‑Guide and g‑Guide (IOSH Managing Safely desirable)
• Proactive, detail‑oriented, and solutions‑focused
• Strong communication and stakeholder management skills
• Willingness to travel internationally and work flexibly around events

Working Arrangements

Hybrid role – 3 days per week in the Fulham office, with onsite working during events. The role requires international travel and flexibility to work some evenings and weekends around event schedules.

Seniority level

• Associate

Employment type

• Full‑time

Job function

• General Business

Industries

• Events Services