Lead Event Operations Manager (Leisure & Sports)

Placements24; Cape Town; Sur place; ZAR 900 000 - 1 800 000; Plein temps

Avantages offerts par ce poste

Bonus scheme

Medical aid

Retirement plan

Paid time off

Professional development

Exclusive events

Résumé du poste

Placements24 in Cape Town, Western Cape, seeks a Lead Event Operations Manager to oversee operational execution of large-scale sporting and leisure events. You'll ensure quality, safety, and attendee satisfaction through hands-on leadership and meticulous logistics.

The role requires 8+ years in event operations, budget control, and vendor management. You'll build contingency plans, manage on-site teams, and liaise with sponsors and authorities to deliver world-class events in a dynamic

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Event Management, Hospitality, or related field.
• Minimum 8 years in event operations, large-scale sports or leisure events.
• Proven budget management and vendor negotiation experience.
• Ability to lead teams in high-pressure environments.

Responsabilités

• Oversee end-to-end operational logistics for major events.
• Develop event operational plans: site layouts, staffing, risk.
• Select and manage vendors per contract terms.
• Lead on-site operations teams with clear direction.
• Ensure compliance with health, safety, security standards.
• Manage event budgets and control costs.
• Coordinate with sponsors, venues, authorities.
• Draft contingency plans and post-event reports.
• Drive continuous process improvements.

Connaissances

Event leadership

Budget management

Vendor management

Logistics planning

Health & safety

Stakeholder management

Negotiation skills

Team leadership

Risk management

Event software proficiency

Formation

Bachelor's degree in Event Management, Hospitality, or related field

Outils

Event management software

Description du poste

About the Role

Our client, a prominent entity in the leisure and sports sector, is seeking a highly skilled and experienced Lead Event Operations Manager. This critical role, located in the scenic city of Cape Town, Western Cape, will oversee the seamless execution of all operational aspects of major sporting and leisure events. You will be responsible for ensuring that every event meets the highest standards of quality, safety, and attendee satisfaction. This is a hands-on leadership position requiring exceptional organizational skills, meticulous attention to detail, and the ability to manage complex logistics. The ideal candidate will have a proven track record in large-scale event management within the sports or entertainment industry, demonstrating proficiency in budget management, vendor relations, and team leadership. You will play a key role in enhancing our client's reputation for delivering world-class events.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage all operational logistics for sporting and leisure events, from initial planning through to post-event analysis.
• Develop and implement comprehensive event operational plans, including site layouts, staffing schedules, and risk management strategies.
• Oversee vendor selection, negotiation, and management, ensuring adherence to contract terms and quality standards.
• Lead and manage on-site event operations teams, providing clear direction and support.
• Ensure compliance with all health, safety, and security regulations.
• Manage event budgets, track expenses, and implement cost-saving measures without compromising quality.
• Liaise with stakeholders, including sponsors, participants, venue managers, and local authorities.
• Develop and implement contingency plans for unforeseen issues.
• Conduct post-event debriefs and produce detailed reports on operational performance.
• Drive continuous improvement in event operations processes.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Event Management, Hospitality, Business Administration, or a relevant field.
• Minimum of 8 years of experience in event operations management, with a strong focus on large-scale sports or leisure events.
• Demonstrated experience in managing budgets of significant size and complexity.
• Proven ability to lead and motivate operational teams in high-pressure environments.
• Excellent negotiation and vendor management skills.
• In-depth knowledge of health, safety, and security protocols for events.
• Strong understanding of logistics and resource planning.
• Exceptional problem-solving and decision-making capabilities.
• Proficiency in event management software and tools.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.
• Flexibility to work irregular hours, including evenings and weekends, especially during event periods.

Benefits

• Our client offers a highly competitive salary, along with a performance bonus structure and a comprehensive benefits package including medical and retirement plans. Employees benefit from ample paid time off, opportunities for continuous professional development, and access to exclusive events. This role provides a unique opportunity to work at the forefront of the sports and leisure industry in Cape Town, with significant potential for career growth within a respected organization. Join a passionate team dedicated to delivering unforgettable experiences.