Senior Event Operations Manager

Placements24; Mtubatuba Local Municipality; On-site; ZAR 720,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Highly competitive salary

Performance-based incentives

Career advancement opportunities

Travel and accommodation allowances

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a seasoned Senior Event Operations Manager for its premier event management and catering operations in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal. You will oversee end-to-end planning and execution of catering and events, ensuring flawless delivery and exceptional client satisfaction.

The role requires 7+ years in event operations, strong budgeting, vendor negotiations, people leadership and risk management in high-volume environments; you will lead cross-functional teams and drive

Qualifications

• 7+ years of progressive experience in event operations management, with catering or hospitality background.
• Proven ability to manage complex, large-scale events from conception to completion.
• Strong budgeting, risk assessment and vendor management experience.

Responsibilities

• Lead end-to-end operational planning and execution of all catering and events.
• Develop and manage event budgets, ensuring targets are met and costs controlled.
• Oversee vendor selection, negotiation and relationship management.
• Create comprehensive logistics plans including staffing and scheduling.
• Perform site inspections and risk assessments with mitigation strategies.
• Manage on-site operations during events and troubleshoot issues.
• Motivate and lead operational teams with clear direction.
• Ensure compliance with health, safety, security and licensing regulations.
• Conduct post-event evaluations and identify improvements.
• Collaborate with sales/client relations to meet and exceed expectations.

Skills

Leadership

Budget management

Vendor negotiation

Team leadership

Risk assessment

Tools

Event management software

MS Office Suite

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a premier event management and catering company operating in the vibrant coastal region of Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal , is seeking a seasoned Senior Event Operations Manager. This critical role will oversee the logistical execution and operational success of all events, ensuring seamless delivery and unparalleled client satisfaction. The ideal candidate will possess extensive experience in event production, vendor management, risk assessment, and team leadership within a high-volume catering and events environment. You will be responsible for managing multiple projects simultaneously, adhering to strict budgets, and maintaining the highest standards of quality and safety. This is an exciting opportunity to shape the operational strategy of a growing company in a unique and demanding market. Your expertise will be vital in ensuring that every event, from corporate functions to large-scale festivals, runs flawlessly, reinforcing our client's reputation as a leader in event services in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal .

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the end-to-end operational planning and execution of all catering and events.
• Develop and manage event budgets, ensuring financial targets are met and costs are controlled effectively.
• Oversee vendor selection, negotiation, and relationship management, ensuring quality and reliability.
• Develop and implement comprehensive event logistics plans, including staffing, scheduling, and resource allocation.
• Conduct thorough site inspections and risk assessments, implementing mitigation strategies as needed.
• Manage on-site operations during events, troubleshooting issues and ensuring smooth execution.
• Lead and motivate operational teams, providing clear direction and support.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant health, safety, security, and licensing regulations.
• Conduct post-event evaluations, gathering feedback and identifying areas for improvement.
• Collaborate with sales and client relations teams to ensure client expectations are met and exceeded.

Requirements

• Minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in event operations management, with a significant portion in catering or hospitality.
• Demonstrated success in managing complex, large-scale events from conception to completion.
• Strong financial acumen with proven experience in budget management and cost control.
• Excellent leadership, team management, and problem-solving skills.
• Expertise in vendor negotiation and contract management.
• Thorough understanding of health, safety, and licensing regulations relevant to events.
• Proficiency in event management software and MS Office Suite.
• Ability to work under pressure, adapt to changing circumstances, and meet tight deadlines.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Experience in the Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal region is advantageous.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary and performance-based incentives.
• Significant opportunities for career advancement and professional development.
• Responsibility for managing high-profile and impactful events.
• Dynamic and challenging work environment.
• Comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund contributions.
• Allowance for travel and accommodation for off-site events.