Senior Esports Operations Manager

Placements24; Pietermaritzburg; Hybrid; ZAR 1,828,000 - 2,493,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary package

Health, dental, and vision insurance

Generous paid time off

Professional development budget

Latest gaming hardware and software

Remote-first work environment

Travel to major events

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Esports Operations Manager to lead our remote-first esports operations, overseeing tournaments, team management, and player development programs.

The role requires strategic thinking, strong communication, and a track record of delivering large-scale events across dispersed teams, partners, and publishers.

Join a fast-paced organisation shaping the future of competitive gaming from a home office with travel to major events.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Sports Management, Business Admin, Marketing, or related field; equivalent practical experience will be considered.
• 5–7 years of progressive experience in esports operations, event management, or a similar role within the gaming industry.
• Demonstrated success in managing and executing major esports tournaments or gaming events.
• Deep understanding of the esports ecosystem, including various game genres, competitive structures, and player communities.
• Proven ability to manage budgets, negotiate contracts, and build strategic partnerships.
• Exceptional leadership, project management, and problem-solving skills.
• Proficiency in relevant project management software and communication tools; remote role.

Responsibilities

• Oversee end-to-end planning, execution, and post-event analysis of all esports tournaments and events, aligning with objectives and brand standards.
• Develop and implement operational strategies to enhance player experience, talent identification, and team performance across titles.
• Manage relationships with game publishers, league partners, sponsors, and key stakeholders.
• Supervise and mentor a team of esports coordinators and support staff; foster a culture of excellence and innovation.
• Develop and manage budgets for esports operations; ensure cost-effectiveness and resource allocation.
• Create and maintain operational documentation including SOPs, risk assessments, and contingency plans.
• Monitor industry trends to identify opportunities for improvement and innovation.
• Ensure compliance with regulations, ethics, and player welfare policies.

Skills

Esports operations

Event management

Budget management

Leadership

Partnerships

Project management

Communication

Digital marketing

Education

Bachelor's in Sports Management

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent entity in the esports and competitive gaming landscape, is seeking a highly experienced and dynamic Senior Esports Operations Manager to lead their remote-first operations. This pivotal role requires a strategic thinker with a passion for gaming and a proven track record in managing complex, large-scale esports events and initiatives. You will be instrumental in shaping the future of our client's competitive gaming division, ensuring seamless execution of tournaments, team management, and player development programs. The ideal candidate thrives in a fast-paced, collaborative environment and possesses exceptional organizational and communication skills, adept at coordinating across diverse, geographically dispersed teams. This position offers the unique opportunity to influence the growth and success of a leading brand within the rapidly evolving esports industry, all from the comfort and flexibility of your own home office. Join us in building a world-class esports ecosystem.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee the end-to-end planning, execution, and post-event analysis of all esports tournaments and events, ensuring they align with strategic objectives and brand standards.
• Develop and implement operational strategies to enhance player experience, talent identification, and team performance across various game titles.
• Manage relationships with game publishers, league partners, sponsors, and other key stakeholders, fostering strong, collaborative alliances.
• Supervise and mentor a team of esports coordinators and support staff, providing guidance and fostering a culture of excellence and innovation.
• Develop and manage budgets for all esports operations, ensuring cost-effectiveness and optimal resource allocation for events and programs.
• Create and maintain comprehensive operational documentation, including standard operating procedures, risk assessments, and contingency plans for esports events .
• Monitor industry trends and best practices in esports operations to identify opportunities for improvement and innovation.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant regulations, ethical standards, and player welfare policies within the esports domain.
• Facilitate effective communication channels between management, players, coaches, and external partners to ensure alignment and transparency.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Sports Management, Business Administration, Marketing, or a related field; equivalent practical experience will be considered.
• Minimum of 5-7 years of progressive experience in esports operations, event management, or a similar role within the gaming industry.
• Demonstrated success in managing and executing major esports tournaments or gaming events.
• Deep understanding of the esports ecosystem, including various game genres, competitive structures, and player communities.
• Proven ability to manage budgets, negotiate contracts, and build strategic partnerships.
• Exceptional leadership, project management, and problem-solving skills.
• Proficiency in relevant project management software and communication tools is essential for this remote role .
• Strong understanding of digital marketing and social media strategies as they apply to esports engagement.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present complex information clearly and concisely.

Benefits

• Competitive annual salary package.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance coverage.
• Generous paid time off and holiday schedule.
• Professional development opportunities and budget for continuous learning.
• Access to the latest gaming hardware and software.
• A flexible and supportive remote-first work environment , promoting work-life balance.
• Opportunities to travel to major industry events and conventions.
• Employee assistance program and wellness initiatives.
• Potential for performance-based bonuses and career advancement within a growing organization.