Senior Sports Event Operations Director

Placements24; Durban; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Health insurance and retirement plan

Hybrid work arrangement

Exposure to major sporting events

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Event Operations Director to oversee all logistical and operational aspects of large-scale sporting events in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal. You will lead venue operations, vendor relations, security, transportation, staffing, and health and safety compliance to deliver seamless events.

The role requires a proven track record in planning, execution, and post-event analysis, with strong leadership, budget management, and vendor negotiation skills.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Event Management, Hospitality, Business Administration, or a related field.

Responsibilities

• Lead the planning, execution, and post-event analysis of all operational aspects for major sporting events.
• Manage all venue logistics, including setup, breakdown, staffing, and technical requirements.
• Oversee vendor management, including sourcing, contracting, and performance monitoring for catering, security, audiovisual, and other services.
• Develop and implement comprehensive event safety and security plans, ensuring compliance with all relevant regulations.
• Manage transportation and accommodation logistics for athletes, staff, and VIP guests.
• Recruit, train, and manage a large team of event staff and volunteers.
• Develop and manage the event operations budget, ensuring cost-effectiveness and efficiency.
• Liaise with local authorities and emergency services to ensure smooth operations and public safety.
• Conduct post-event debriefs and generate detailed operational reports with recommendations for future improvements.

Skills

Event operations management

Leadership

Budget management

Vendor management

Security & safety compliance

Negotiation

Communication

Microsoft Office

Event management software

Education

Bachelor's degree in Event Management, Hospitality, Business Administration

Tools

Microsoft Office Suite

Venue management software

Job description

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Event Operations Director to oversee all logistical and operational aspects of large-scale sporting events in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal. You will lead venue operations, vendor relations, security, transportation, staffing, and health and safety compliance to deliver seamless events.

The role requires a proven track record in planning, execution, and post-event analysis, with strong leadership, budget management, and vendor negotiation skills.