Event Operations Director

Placements24; Durban; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Health insurance and retirement plan

Hybrid work arrangement

Exposure to major sporting events

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Event Operations Director to oversee all logistical and operational aspects of large-scale sporting events in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal. You will lead venue operations, vendor relations, security, transportation, staffing, and health and safety compliance to deliver seamless events.

The role requires a proven track record in planning, execution, and post-event analysis, with strong leadership, budget management, and vendor negotiation skills.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Event Management, Hospitality, Business Administration, or a related field.

Responsibilities

• Lead the planning, execution, and post-event analysis of all operational aspects for major sporting events.
• Manage all venue logistics, including setup, breakdown, staffing, and technical requirements.
• Oversee vendor management, including sourcing, contracting, and performance monitoring for catering, security, audiovisual, and other services.
• Develop and implement comprehensive event safety and security plans, ensuring compliance with all relevant regulations.
• Manage transportation and accommodation logistics for athletes, staff, and VIP guests.
• Recruit, train, and manage a large team of event staff and volunteers.
• Develop and manage the event operations budget, ensuring cost-effectiveness and efficiency.
• Liaise with local authorities and emergency services to ensure smooth operations and public safety.
• Conduct post-event debriefs and generate detailed operational reports with recommendations for future improvements.

Skills

Event operations management

Leadership

Budget management

Vendor management

Security & safety compliance

Negotiation

Communication

Microsoft Office

Event management software

Education

Bachelor's degree in Event Management, Hospitality, Business Administration

Tools

Microsoft Office Suite

Venue management software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent organizer of major sporting events, is seeking a highly organized and experienced Event Operations Director to oversee all logistical and operational aspects of their large-scale events in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal . This critical role demands exceptional planning, execution, and problem-solving skills to ensure seamless and successful event delivery. The successful candidate will be responsible for managing venue operations, vendor relations, security, transportation, staffing, and ensuring compliance with all health and safety regulations. This is a challenging yet rewarding position for a seasoned operations professional with a passion for creating memorable and impactful sporting experiences. We are looking for a proactive leader who thrives in a fast-paced environment and possesses a meticulous attention to detail, ensuring every event runs like clockwork.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the planning, execution, and post-event analysis of all operational aspects for major sporting events.
• Manage all venue logistics, including setup, breakdown, staffing, and technical requirements.
• Oversee vendor management, including sourcing, contracting, and performance monitoring for catering, security, audiovisual, and other services.
• Develop and implement comprehensive event safety and security plans, ensuring compliance with all relevant regulations.
• Manage transportation and accommodation logistics for athletes, staff, and VIP guests.
• Recruit, train, and manage a large team of event staff and volunteers.
• Develop and manage the event operations budget, ensuring cost-effectiveness and efficiency.
• Liaise with local authorities and emergency services to ensure smooth operations and public safety.
• Conduct post-event debriefs and generate detailed operational reports with recommendations for future improvements.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Event Management, Hospitality, Business Administration, or a related field.
• Minimum of 8 years of experience in event operations management, with a significant focus on large-scale sporting events.
• Proven track record of successfully managing complex logistics and operational challenges for high-profile events.
• Strong understanding of venue management, security protocols, and health & safety standards.
• Excellent negotiation and vendor management skills.
• Demonstrated experience in budget development and financial management.
• Exceptional leadership, team management, and communication skills.
• Ability to work under pressure and make sound decisions in high-stakes situations.
• Proficiency in event management software and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Flexibility to work irregular hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays, as required by event schedules.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary package, a comprehensive benefits plan including health insurance and retirement contributions, and the opportunity to work on some of the most exciting sporting events in Durban .
• This role provides significant exposure to the global sports industry and opportunities for professional growth.
• The hybrid work arrangement allows for a balanced approach to work and personal life, integrating collaborative office work with the flexibility to manage operations remotely when appropriate.
• You will be part of a passionate and dedicated team, contributing directly to the success of major sporting spectacles.