Senior Waterfront Events & Operations Manager

Placements24; Richards Bay; On-site; ZAR 700,000 - 900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health benefits

Autonomy to shape experiences

Professional development opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a seasoned Waterfront Events & Operations Manager for Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal. The role oversees planning, execution, and day-to-day operations along the waterfront, with a hands-on stance at the venue.

The successful candidate will bring 7+ years in event and operations management within hospitality or tourism, strong leadership, budgeting, and regulatory knowledge to deliver outstanding guest experiences and safe, compliant waterfront activities.

Qualifications

• Minimum 7 years in event and operations management, waterfront/marina setting preferred.
• Proven experience delivering complex events and day-to-day logistics.
• Strong knowledge of health, safety, and environmental regulations for waterfront operations.
• Excellent leadership, people management, and communication skills.
• Financial acumen including budgeting and P&L management.
• Willingness to work flexible hours, weekends, evenings, and holidays.
• Residency or willingness to relocate to Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal.
• Relevant degree or diploma in Hospitality, Event, or Operations Management.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement strategic plans for waterfront events and activities.
• Oversee daily waterfront operations, staffing, and service delivery.
• Ensure compliance with health, safety, environmental, and maritime regulations.
• Manage budgets, control costs, and drive revenue from events.
• Coordinate with vendors, suppliers, and external partners.
• Build relationships with local authorities, marine services, and stakeholders.
• Oversee maintenance of waterfront facilities, docks, equipment.
• Recruit, train, schedule, and manage performance of operations and events staff.
• Implement customer service standards to ensure exceptional guest experiences.
• Respond effectively to emergencies and manage crisis situations.

Skills

Leadership

Team management

Communication

Budgeting

P&L management

Regulatory compliance

Crisis management

Problem solving

Stakeholder coordination

Education

Hospitality management degree

Event management degree

Operations management degree

Job description

Placements24 is seeking a seasoned Waterfront Events & Operations Manager for Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal. The role oversees planning, execution, and day-to-day operations along the waterfront, with a hands-on stance at the venue.

The successful candidate will bring 7+ years in event and operations management within hospitality or tourism, strong leadership, budgeting, and regulatory knowledge to deliver outstanding guest experiences and safe, compliant waterfront activities.