Event Operations Manager - Sports Tourism

Placements24; Stellenbosch; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Hybrid role

Travel opportunities

Medical plan

Retirement plan

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a highly organized Event Operations Manager to oversee the logistical execution of major sporting events in Stellenbosch, Western Cape. The role blends office planning with on-site leadership to deliver world-class experiences for athletes, spectators, and sponsors.

You will collaborate with event organizers, venue managers, local authorities, and service providers, managing budgets, site layouts, staffing, and risk management throughout the event lifecycle.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Event Management or related field.
• 6+ years in event operations, with large-scale sporting events.
• Proven ability to manage complex logistics and budgets.
• Strong knowledge of event safety, security and risk management.
• Excellent negotiation and vendor management skills.
• Leadership, problem-solving and decision-making abilities.
• Proficiency with event management software and office apps.
• Ability to work under pressure and adapt to changing circumstances.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Flexibility for irregular hours during events.

Responsibilities

• Plan, coordinate, and execute operational aspects of assigned sporting events.
• Develop detailed event operational plans including site layouts and staffing.
• Manage event budgets ensuring cost-effectiveness and accountability.
• Oversee vendor relationships, including contract negotiation and performance.
• Liaise with authorities, security, and emergency services for safety and compliance.
• Manage on-site operations during events including accreditation and transport.
• Develop contingency plans for potential issues or emergencies.
• Conduct post-event analysis documenting successes and improvements.
• Ensure effective communication among all stakeholders.
• Maintain accurate records and documentation related to operations.

Skills

Stakeholder management

Vendor management

Budgeting

Leadership

Negotiation

Communication

Risk management

Education

Bachelor's degree in Event Management or related field

Tools

Event management software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a dynamic organization at the forefront of sports tourism development, is seeking a highly organized and proactive Event Operations Manager to oversee the logistical execution of major sporting events. Based in the picturesque region of Stellenbosch, Western Cape , this role is crucial for ensuring seamless event delivery, from planning and budgeting to on-site management and post-event evaluation. You will collaborate closely with various stakeholders, including event organizers, venue managers, local authorities, and service providers, to guarantee a world-class experience for athletes, spectators, and sponsors. This hybrid role requires a strategic mind with excellent hands-on operational capabilities, blending office-based planning with on-site event leadership.

Key Responsibilities

• Plan, coordinate, and execute all operational aspects of assigned sporting events.
• Develop detailed event operational plans, including site layouts, staffing requirements, and logistical schedules.
• Manage event budgets, ensuring cost-effectiveness and financial accountability.
• Oversee vendor and supplier relationships, including contract negotiation and performance management.
• Liaise with local authorities, security services, and emergency response teams to ensure event safety and compliance.
• Manage on-site operations during events, including accreditation, transportation, and spectator services.
• Develop and implement contingency plans for potential issues or emergencies.
• Conduct post-event analysis, documenting successes and identifying areas for improvement.
• Ensure effective communication and coordination among all event stakeholders.
• Maintain accurate records and documentation related to event operations.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Event Management, Sports Management, Business Administration, or a related field.
• Minimum of 6 years of experience in event operations management, with a significant focus on large-scale sporting events.
• Proven ability to manage complex logistics, budgets, and multiple stakeholders.
• Strong understanding of event safety, security, and risk management principles.
• Excellent negotiation and vendor management skills.
• Exceptional leadership, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities.
• Proficiency in event management software and standard office applications.
• Ability to work effectively under pressure and adapt to changing circumstances.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Flexibility to work irregular hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays, especially during event periods.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary package and benefits, including comprehensive medical and retirement plans.
• This hybrid role provides a blend of office-based strategic planning and on-site operational leadership in the beautiful Stellenbosch, Western Cape .
• Opportunities for professional growth and development are abundant, including training and advancement within the sports tourism sector.
• Employees benefit from a dynamic and fast-paced work environment, contributing to the success of high-profile sporting events.
• Paid annual leave and sick leave are provided.
• Potential for travel to other event locations.
• This is an excellent opportunity to build a career in the exciting field of sports event management.