Event Operations Manager - Sports & Entertainment

Placements24; Vereeniging; Hybrid; ZAR 650,000 - 1,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work model

Competitive contract rate

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an Event Operations Manager for a Vereeniging venue in Gauteng. The role blends on-site event execution with remote planning, budgeting, and stakeholder communication.

You will oversee logistics, vendor relationships, safety compliance, and post-event reviews to ensure memorable, safe experiences.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Event Management or related field.
• Minimum 5 years in event operations management, preferably in sports or entertainment venues.
• Proven track record of delivering large-scale events from concept to completion.
• Strong knowledge of risk management and production logistics.

Responsibilities

• Oversee all operational aspects of assigned events, including setup, execution, and teardown.
• Develop detailed event operational plans, timelines, and site layouts.
• Manage and coordinate relationships with vendors, suppliers, and contractors, ensuring timely delivery of services.
• Ensure compliance with health, safety, security, and licensing regulations for events.
• Develop and manage event budgets, tracking expenditures and identifying cost-saving opportunities.
• Lead on-site event staff and volunteers, providing clear direction and support.
• Coordinate with internal departments to ensure integrated event delivery.
• Conduct post-event evaluations, identifying lessons learned and areas for improvement.
• Manage crisis communication and emergency response protocols during events.
• Liaise with local authorities and emergency services as required.

Skills

Leadership

Budgeting

Vendor management

Event logistics

Negotiation

MS Office

Team management

Education

Bachelor's degree in Event Management

Tools

Event management software

Microsoft Office Suite

Job description

About the Role Our client, a leader in the Leisure & Sports and entertainment industry, is seeking a highly organized and experienced Event Operations Manager for their venue in Vereeniging, Gauteng . This crucial role involves the planning, execution, and management of all operational aspects of various sports events, concerts, and entertainment gatherings. The successful candidate will be responsible for ensuring seamless event delivery, from logistics and vendor management to health and safety compliance and on-site coordination. This is a hybrid role, requiring both on-site presence for event execution and remote work for planning, budgeting, and stakeholder communication. We are looking for a proactive individual with a proven ability to handle complex event logistics under pressure, ensuring memorable and safe experiences for all attendees. The ideal candidate possesses strong leadership skills, meticulous attention to detail, and a deep understanding of event management principles within the sports and entertainment landscape. This position offers a dynamic work environment and the opportunity to contribute to high-profile events in the Vereeniging area, impacting the local cultural and sporting scene. Your role will be pivotal in upholding our client's reputation for excellence.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee all operational aspects of assigned events, including setup, execution, and teardown.
• Develop detailed event operational plans, timelines, and site layouts.
• Manage and coordinate relationships with vendors, suppliers, and contractors, ensuring timely delivery of services.
• Ensure compliance with all health, safety, security, and licensing regulations for events.
• Develop and manage event budgets, tracking expenditures and identifying cost-saving opportunities.
• Lead and manage on-site event staff and volunteers, providing clear direction and support.
• Coordinate with internal departments (e.g., marketing, ticketing, F&B) to ensure integrated event delivery.
• Conduct post-event evaluations, identifying lessons learned and areas for improvement.
• Manage crisis communication and emergency response protocols during events.
• Liaise with local authorities and emergency services as required.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Event Management, Hospitality, Business Administration, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in event operations management, preferably within sports or entertainment venues.
• Proven track record of successfully managing large-scale events from conception to completion.
• Strong understanding of event logistics, production, and risk management.
• Excellent leadership, negotiation, and problem-solving skills.
• Experience in budget management and financial reporting.
• Ability to work effectively in a hybrid environment, balancing on-site demands with remote planning.
• Proficiency in event management software and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Flexible schedule, including the ability to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as dictated by event schedules.
• Strong commitment to delivering high-quality, safe, and memorable events.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive contract rate, comprehensive benefits, and the opportunity to work on exciting and high-profile events in the Leisure & Sports and entertainment sectors.
• This hybrid role offers flexibility and the chance to shape major events in Vereeniging .
• You will be part of a dynamic and fast-paced industry, working with a professional and dedicated team.
• This position provides significant career growth potential within event management.
• Additional information regarding compensation and specific benefits will be provided to candidates who are selected for an interview.