Operations Manager - Sports Arena & Events

Placements24; Centurion; Hybrid; ZAR 700,000 - 1,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Life insurance

Retirement savings plan

Training & development

Career advancement opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 in Centurion, Gauteng, seeks an experienced Operations Manager to oversee the day-to-day operations of a major sports arena and event venue.

You will lead event staff, security, maintenance and concessions, manage budgets, and liaise with promoters, leagues and vendors to ensure safe, memorable guest experiences.

The role requires 5+ years in venue operations, strong leadership, budgeting skills, and the ability to work irregular hours.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of operations management experience in sports venues or large events.
• Strong leadership of diverse teams including facilities, security, ticketing and guest services.
• Proven budgeting and financial management skills.
• Excellent stakeholder relations and communication abilities.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement operational plans for all events at the arena.
• Coordinate facilities, security, ticketing, concessions, and guest services.
• Oversee maintenance of seating, field, and public areas.
• Ensure health, safety and security protocols; conduct risk assessments.
• Manage operational budgets and optimize revenue streams.
• Liaise with promoters, leagues and vendors to meet requirements.
• Supervise and train operational staff for high performance.
• Develop and manage emergency response plans and procedures.
• Manage vendor relationships and inventory for operations.

Skills

Team leadership

Budgeting

Stakeholder liaison

Event logistics

People management

Education

Degree in Business Administration / Hospitality Management / Event Management

Tools

Venue management software

MS Office

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a highly organized and dynamic Operations Manager to oversee the day-to-day functioning of a major sports arena and event venue in Centurion, Gauteng . This role is crucial for ensuring the smooth execution of all events, from major sporting fixtures to concerts and corporate functions. You will be responsible for managing a diverse team, including event staff, security, maintenance, and concessions, ensuring compliance with safety regulations and delivering exceptional guest experiences. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in venue management, event logistics, budget control, and stakeholder relations within the leisure and sports industry. This is a challenging yet rewarding position for an individual passionate about delivering seamless and memorable experiences in a high-energy environment. You'll be at the heart of Centurion, Gauteng 's entertainment and sports scene, ensuring everything runs like clockwork.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement operational plans for all events hosted at the arena, ensuring seamless execution.
• Manage and coordinate various operational departments, including facilities management, security, ticketing, concessions, and guest services.
• Oversee the maintenance and readiness of the arena, including seating, field of play, and all public areas.
• Ensure strict adherence to health, safety, and security protocols, conducting regular risk assessments.
• Manage operational budgets, controlling costs and optimizing revenue streams.
• Liaise with event organizers, promoters, sports leagues, and other stakeholders to meet their operational requirements.
• Supervise and train operational staff, fostering a high-performance culture.
• Develop and manage emergency response plans and procedures.
• Oversee vendor relationships, including catering, merchandise, and technical suppliers.
• Manage inventory and procurement for operational supplies.

Requirements

• A degree in Business Administration, Hospitality Management, Event Management, or a related field is preferred.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in operations management, preferably within a sports venue, arena, or large-scale event facility.
• Proven experience in managing diverse teams and departments.
• Strong understanding of event logistics, venue operations, and health and safety regulations.
• Excellent financial management and budgeting skills.
• Exceptional problem-solving and decision-making abilities.
• Superior communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to liaunt effectively with stakeholders at all levels.
• Proficiency in relevant venue management software and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Ability to work irregular hours, including evenings, weekends, and public holidays, based on event schedules.
• Experience in conflict resolution and crisis management.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary package, commensurate with experience, and performance-based incentives.
• The benefits package includes comprehensive medical aid, life insurance, and a retirement savings plan.
• Employees will have access to training and development opportunities to enhance their skills in venue and event management.
• This role provides the opportunity to work in a vibrant, fast-paced environment within the heart of Centurion, Gauteng 's sports and entertainment hub, with significant scope for career advancement.