Festival Operations Director

Placements24; Gauteng; On-site; ZAR 1,000,000 - 1,700,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary package

Performance‑based bonuses

Medical and retirement benefits

Professional growth & training

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a strategic Festival Operations Director to lead operational excellence for large‑scale events in Tembisa, Gauteng. You will oversee site management, vendor coordination, security, sanitation and timelines to deliver memorable experiences for attendees and artists.

The role requires 8+ years in event operations, strong budget control, contract negotiation, and leadership of diverse teams.

Qualifications

• 8+ years in event operations management, with large‑scale festivals or public events.
• Proven ability to manage complex logistics and diverse teams.
• Strong site planning, safety, and emergency management knowledge.
• Excellent contract negotiation and budget development experience.
• Proficient in event management software and standard office tools.
• Demonstrated leadership and decision‑making under pressure.
• Experience in the Tembisa, Gauteng region or similar urban environments is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement operational plans for all festivals, including site layout and resources.
• Manage external vendors, contracts, and service delivery standards.
• Oversee security, medical, and emergency services to protect attendees.
• Develop and manage operational budgets and drive cost‑efficiency.
• Coordinate with local authorities to secure permits and ensure compliance.
• Lead and motivate the operations team to achieve high performance.
• Implement waste management and sustainability initiatives across sites.
• Oversee setup and teardown within strict timelines.

Skills

Event operations

Site planning

Budget management

Vendor coordination

Security coordination

Leadership

Emergency management

Negotiation

Stakeholder liaison

Sustainability

Tools

Event management software

Office suites

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a premier arts and entertainment organization, is seeking a highly strategic and hands‑on Festival Operations Director to spearhead the operational excellence of major events in **Tembisa, Gauteng**. This critical role involves the meticulous planning and execution of all logistical and operational facets of large‑scale festivals, ensuring a seamless and memorable experience for attendees and artists alike. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of event management, a passion for the arts, and an unwavering commitment to quality and safety. You will be responsible for overseeing a vast array of operational components, from site management and vendor coordination to security and sanitation, ensuring every detail contributes to the overall success of the festival. This position offers a unique opportunity to influence the cultural landscape and deliver impactful events in the **Tembisa** community.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement comprehensive operational plans for all festivals, including site layout, infrastructure, and resource allocation.
• Manage all external vendors and suppliers, negotiating contracts and ensuring service delivery standards are met or exceeded.
• Oversee the deployment and management of security, medical, and emergency services to ensure the safety and well‑being of all attendees.
• Develop and manage operational budgets, controlling expenditures and maximizing cost‑efficiency.
• Coordinate with local authorities and stakeholders to secure necessary permits and ensure compliance with regulations.
• Lead and motivate the operations team, fostering a collaborative and high‑performance culture.
• Implement robust waste management and sustainability initiatives across all festival sites.
• Manage the setup and teardown processes efficiently, adhering to strict timelines.

Requirements

• Over 8 years of experience in event operations management, with a significant focus on large‑scale festivals or public events.
• Proven ability to manage complex logistical challenges and diverse operational teams.
• Strong understanding of site planning, infrastructure requirements, safety protocols, and emergency management.
• Excellent negotiation and contract management skills.
• Demonstrated experience in budget development and financial management.
• Proficiency in event management software and standard office suites.
• Exceptional leadership, problem‑solving, and decision‑making abilities.
• Ability to remain calm and effective under pressure in a dynamic environment.
• A strong appreciation for various art forms and entertainment genres is essential.
• Experience working within the **Tembisa, Gauteng** region or similar urban environments is a plus.

Benefits

• Our client provides a competitive salary package, performance‑based bonuses, and comprehensive medical and retirement benefits.
• Employees are offered ample opportunities for professional growth, including access to industry conferences and training programs.
• You will be part of an innovative and supportive team that is dedicated to creating vibrant cultural experiences.
• This role offers the chance to make a significant impact on major public events and contribute to the thriving arts scene.
• Additional benefits include generous paid time off and potential for involvement in international projects.