Assistant Operations Manager

Zeitz Mocaa Ocular Events Lounge; Cape Town; On-site; ZAR 200 000 - 300 000; Full time

Job summary

A prominent events venue in Cape Town is seeking an Assistant Operations Manager to support the Senior Operations Manager in daily operations. The role includes managing the bistro, coordinating events, and ensuring high service standards. Candidates should have a diploma in events management or hospitality and possess strong organizational and leadership skills.

Qualifications

• Minimum 3–5 years' experience in hospitality or events.
• Ability to work under pressure and manage multiple priorities.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Support Senior Operations Manager in daily operations.
• Coordinate with Project Manager and clients for events.
• Ensure high standards of client service and satisfaction.
• Manage and schedule staff for events.

Skills

Organizational skills

Time-management

Problem-solving

Leadership

Negotiation

Knowledge of hospitality industry

Proficiency in Microsoft Office

Administrative tasks

Education

Diploma in events management or hospitality

Tools

Xero

Microsoft Office

iOS

Job description

The Assistant Operations Manager will support the Senior Operations Manager with the day-to-day operations of the Zeitz MOCAA Ocular Lounge & Events Space as well as the evening events.

This role focuses on ensuring the management of the bistro, smooth delivery of events and venue services by managing staff, coordinating suppliers, and maintaining service excellence.

Working closely with the Senior Operations Manager and the wider leadership team, the Assistant Operations Manager will contribute to guest satisfaction, operational efficiency, and profitability while upholding the museum's high standards.

Responsibilities

• Support and work alongside the Senior Operations Manager to ensure the smooth running of the bistro and events at the Zeitz MOCAA Ocular Lounge and Events Space.
• Coordinate with the Project Manager and Head of Sales to execute event bookings and liaise with clients to confirm event requirements.
• Support the department in delivering consistently high standards of client service and meeting business objectives.
• Assist in planning and directing daily venue operations, including quality, service standards, cleanliness, and client satisfaction.
• Ensure smooth day-to-day operations in collaboration with the Senior Operations Manager and Director.
• Resolve operational queries, complaints, or problems promptly and effectively.
• Promote positive employee relations through clear communication and regular team meetings.
• Manage and schedule staff for events, including on-site supervision after hours and on weekends.
• Conduct and host client site visits, building and maintaining strong client relationships.
• Ensure the venue and facilities are clean, well‑maintained, and organised.
• Liaise with catering teams, overseeing their requirements and logistics.
• Enforce Zeitz MOCAA Museum regulations and operational protocols.
• Manage inventory levels, supplies, and equipment in collaboration with vendors.
• Provide regular operational and performance reports to senior management and suggest areas for improvement.

Requirements

• Ability to work under pressure, manage multiple priorities, and remain calm in challenging situations.
• Strong promotional and marketing knowledge with the ability to represent the venue effectively.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills (English essential).

Skills

• Outstanding organizational, time‑management, and problem‑solving skills.
• Proven leadership and negotiation abilities.
• Willingness to work evenings, weekends, and public holidays.
• Solid understanding of the events and hospitality industry.
• Proficiency in administrative tasks and systems including Xero, Microsoft Office, and iOS.
• Ability to manage multiple projects with strict deadlines.
• Minimum of 3–5 years' experience in hospitality or events (preferred).

Qualifications

Qualification in events management, hospitality, or similar preferred.

Compensation & Benefits

Salary: R… per month (dependent on experience).

Job Details

• Job Location: Zeitz MOCAA Ocular Lounge and Events Space, Cape Town, Western Cape.
• Job Type: Full‑time, in person.
• Pay: R… per month.
• Ability to commute / relocate: Cape Town, Western Cape – reliably commute or planning to relocate before starting work (Required).
• Education: Diploma (Required).
• Experience: Hospitality or events – 1 year (Required). Management – 1 year (Required).