Festival Operations Director - Performing Arts

Placements24; Gqeberha; Hybrid; ZAR 1,100,000 - 1,600,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Generous annual leave

Professional development opportunities

Hybrid work arrangement

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Festival Operations Director for a prominent Port Elizabeth-based performing arts festival. The role combines on-site leadership with remote strategic work, overseeing logistics, budgeting, staffing, and compliance to ensure a seamless annual event.

The ideal candidate has 7+ years of progressive festival experience, strong leadership, and deep understanding of performing arts production.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Event Management, Business Administration, Arts Administration, or related field.
• Minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in large-scale event management, with at least 3 years in a senior operational leadership role for festivals or performing arts events.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement comprehensive operational plans for the annual performing arts festival.
• Oversee all site logistics, including venue setup, technical requirements, stage management coordination, and audience flow.
• Manage and negotiate contracts with all vendors, suppliers, and service providers (e.g., catering, security, technical equipment).
• Develop and manage the festival's operational budget, ensuring cost-effectiveness and financial accountability.
• Recruit, train, and manage a team of event staff, volunteers, and contractors.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant health, safety, and licensing regulations.
• Develop and implement emergency response and contingency plans.
• Liaise with local authorities and emergency services to ensure smooth festival operations.
• Oversee artist liaison and hospitality logistics, ensuring a positive experience for performers.
• Evaluate festival operations post-event and provide detailed reports with recommendations for future improvements.

Skills

Event management

Budget management

Vendor management

Leadership

Contract negotiation

Team management

Education

Bachelor's degree in Event Management

Tools

Event management software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading cultural organization in Port Elizabeth , is seeking a highly organized and experienced Festival Operations Director. This senior position is responsible for the strategic planning and flawless execution of all operational aspects of their annual performing arts festival. You will manage logistics, site operations, vendor relations, security, and staff management to ensure a successful and memorable event for artists and attendees alike. The ideal candidate has a proven track record in large-scale event management, exceptional leadership capabilities, and a deep understanding of the performing arts sector. This Hybrid role requires a blend of on-site presence for critical planning and execution phases, complemented by remote work for administrative and strategic tasks, based within the Eastern Cape .

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement comprehensive operational plans for the annual performing arts festival.
• Oversee all site logistics, including venue setup, technical requirements, stage management coordination, and audience flow.
• Manage and negotiate contracts with all vendors, suppliers, and service providers (e.g., catering, security, technical equipment).
• Develop and manage the festival's operational budget, ensuring cost-effectiveness and financial accountability.
• Recruit, train, and manage a team of event staff, volunteers, and contractors.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant health, safety, and licensing regulations.
• Develop and implement emergency response and contingency plans.
• Liaise with local authorities and emergency services to ensure smooth festival operations.
• Oversee artist liaison and hospitality logistics, ensuring a positive experience for performers.
• Evaluate festival operations post-event and provide detailed reports with recommendations for future improvements.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Event Management, Business Administration, Arts Administration, or a related field.
• Minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in large-scale event management, with at least 3 years in a senior operational leadership role for festivals or performing arts events.
• Proven experience in managing complex logistics, budgets, and diverse teams.
• Strong understanding of performing arts production and technical requirements.
• Excellent negotiation, vendor management, and contract administration skills.
• Demonstrated leadership, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities.
• Proficiency in event management software and standard office productivity tools.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work under pressure, manage multiple priorities, and meet demanding deadlines.
• Flexibility to work non-traditional hours, including evenings and weekends, during the festival period.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive annual salary ranging from ZAR, commensurate with experience and qualifications. This Hybrid position offers the advantage of flexibility, allowing for remote work combined with essential on-site presence in Port Elizabeth . Benefits include a comprehensive health insurance plan, generous annual leave, and opportunities for professional development within the arts sector. You will have the opportunity to shape a significant cultural event and work with a passionate team dedicated to celebrating the arts.