Senior Event Operations Manager (Remote)

Placements24; Johannesburg; Remote; ZAR 900,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Paid time off

Professional development

Global team collaboration

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a highly experienced Senior Event Operations Manager to lead a remote-first team delivering a diverse portfolio of international conferences, luxury weddings, and corporate retreats. You will design operational plans, coordinate venues and vendors, and oversee on-site execution virtually or through representatives, ensuring outstanding guest experiences and strict compliance.

This role requires 7+ years in event management, strong leadership of remote teams, and a degree

Qualifications

• 7+ years in event management with operational oversight for large events.
• Experience leading remote teams using virtual collaboration tools.
• Excellent organizational, negotiation and problem-solving skills.
• Bachelor's degree in Hospitality Management, Marketing, or Business Administration.
• Proficiency in event management software and MS Office.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute comprehensive operational plans for high-profile events.
• Coordinate venue, vendors, AV, catering, staffing and transport.
• Oversee on-site delivery remotely or via representatives.
• Collaborate with sales, marketing and client relations to meet objectives.
• Perform post-event analysis and reporting to drive improvements.
• Manage supplier relationships and negotiate contracts.
• Ensure health, safety and legal compliance.
• Mentor junior event staff in a remote team setting.

Skills

Vendor management

Remote team leadership

Organizational skills

Communication skills

Problem solving

Microsoft Office

Event software

Education

Bachelor's degree in Hospitality Management

Bachelor's degree in Marketing/Business Administration

Tools

Event management software

Microsoft Office Suite

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading global hospitality and tourism consultancy, is seeking a highly experienced and dynamic Senior Event Operations Manager to join their innovative and expanding remote-first team. This pivotal role will be instrumental in overseeing and executing a diverse portfolio of high-profile events for our clients, ranging from international conferences and luxury weddings to large-scale corporate retreats. You will be responsible for ensuring seamless operational delivery, maintaining exceptional standards of service, and driving client satisfaction from conception to completion. As a fully remote position, you will leverage cutting-edge collaboration tools and a proactive communication style to connect with stakeholders across different time zones. This is an exciting opportunity to shape the future of event management within a forward-thinking organization that values autonomy, creativity, and a commitment to excellence.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement comprehensive operational plans for all assigned events, ensuring adherence to timelines, budgets, and quality standards.
• Manage and coordinate all logistical aspects of events, including venue selection, vendor negotiation and management, audiovisual requirements, catering, staffing, and transportation.
• Oversee on-site event execution (virtually or through appointed representatives), troubleshooting issues proactively and ensuring a flawless guest experience.
• Collaborate closely with sales, marketing, and client relations teams to understand event objectives and deliver bespoke solutions.
• Conduct post-event analysis, gathering feedback and preparing detailed reports to identify areas for improvement and best practices.
• Maintain strong relationships with a network of trusted suppliers and venues, negotiating contracts to secure favorable terms.
• Ensure all events comply with relevant health, safety, and legal regulations.
• Mentor and guide junior event staff, fostering a culture of continuous learning and development within the remote team.

Requirements

• Proven track record of at least 7 years in event management, with a significant portion dedicated to operational oversight of large-scale events.
• Demonstrated experience in managing remote teams and coordinating complex projects using virtual collaboration tools.
• Exceptional organizational and multitasking abilities, with meticulous attention to detail.
• Strong negotiation and vendor management skills.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and problem-solving skills.
• Proficiency in event management software and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Ability to remain calm and effective under pressure in a fast-paced environment.
• A passion for the hospitality and tourism industry and a commitment to delivering outstanding guest experiences.
• Bachelor's degree in Hospitality Management, Marketing, Business Administration, or a related field is preferred.

Benefits

• competitive salary package commensurate with experience.
• flexibility and work-life balance that comes with operating from your chosen location.
• comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance, paid time off, and opportunities for professional development and continuous learning.
• supportive and collaborative global team, with access to the latest technologies and resources to excel in your role.
• Regular virtual team-building activities and a strong emphasis on employee well-being.