Event Director - Major Sporting Events

Placements24; Centurion; Hybrid; ZAR 1,000,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Remote contractor role

Performance bonuses

Autonomy to manage workload

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Event Director to oversee the planning and execution of major sporting events around Centurion, Gauteng. This senior, remote role requires a visionary leader with a proven track record in complex budgets, logistics, and stakeholder relations.

You will manage cross-functional teams, drive venue selection and contracts, develop risk plans, and ensure regulatory compliance.

Qualifications

• Minimum 10 years in event management, with major sporting events.
• Proven director experience delivering large-scale international or national events.
• Strong leadership, project management and organizational skills.
• Budgeting expertise with financial target management.
• Excellent negotiation and contract management abilities.
• Ability to work remotely and meet tight deadlines.
• Degree in Event Management, Hospitality, Business Admin or related field desirable.

Responsibilities

• Conceptualize, plan, and execute major sporting events from inception to completion.
• Develop and manage comprehensive event budgets, ensuring targets are met.
• Lead cross-functional teams including operations, marketing, logistics, and security.
• Oversee venue selection, contracts, and supplier relationships.
• Develop risk management and contingency plans for all events.
• Ensure regulatory compliance, permits and licenses.
• Liaise with governing bodies, sponsors, media and VIP guests.
• Manage scheduling, staffing and on-site coordination.
• Drive innovation to enhance attendee experience and efficiency.

Skills

Leadership

Project management

Budget management

Negotiation

Stakeholder communication

Remote work

Team leadership

Education

Degree in Event Management

Tools

Event management software

Digital collaboration tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prestigious event management company specializing in large-scale sporting competitions, is seeking a highly experienced and dynamic Event Director to oversee the planning and execution of major events in and around Centurion, Gauteng . This senior role requires a visionary leader with a proven track record in managing complex logistics, budgets, and stakeholder relations for high-profile sporting occasions. The Event Director will be responsible for ensuring the seamless delivery of events that meet the highest standards of operational excellence and attendee experience. If you thrive in fast-paced environments and possess a strategic mindset for event success, this remote opportunity based out of Centurion, Gauteng is an exceptional next step in your career.

Key Responsibilities

• Conceptualize, plan, and execute major sporting events from inception to completion.
• Develop and manage comprehensive event budgets, ensuring financial targets are met and optimized.
• Lead and motivate cross-functional event teams, including operations, marketing, logistics, and security.
• Oversee venue selection, contract negotiation, and relationship management with suppliers and vendors.
• Develop and implement risk management and contingency plans for all events.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant regulations, permits, and licenses.
• Liaise with governing bodies, sponsors, media, and VIP guests to ensure satisfaction and maximize positive exposure.
• Manage all aspects of event operations, including scheduling, staffing, and on-site coordination.
• Drive innovation and continuously seek ways to enhance the attendee experience and operational efficiency.

Requirements

• A minimum of 10 years of experience in event management, with a significant focus on major sporting events.
• Proven experience in directing and successfully delivering large-scale international or national sporting events.
• Exceptional leadership, project management, and organizational skills.
• Strong financial acumen with extensive experience in budget development and management.
• Excellent negotiation and contract management abilities.
• Proficiency in event management software and digital collaboration tools.
• Outstanding communication, interpersonal, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work under pressure and meet tight deadlines in a remote setting.
• A degree in Event Management, Hospitality, Business Administration, or a related field is highly desirable.

Benefits

This remote contractor position offers a highly competitive remuneration package, reflecting the seniority and demands of the role. While this is a contract role, our client values its professionals and offers a supportive remote working environment. The opportunity to work on globally recognized sporting events provides unparalleled experience and professional exposure. You will have the autonomy to manage your workload and contribute strategically to the success of prestigious events originating from the Centurion, Gauteng area. Performance-based bonuses may be applicable. This role is ideal for seasoned professionals seeking impactful project-based work.