Sports Event Operations Director

Placements24; Durban; Híbrido; ZAR 1.200.000 - 2.000.000; Jornada completa

Ventajas ofrecidas por este puesto de trabajo

Salary package with annual bonuses

Health insurance and retirement fund

Exposure to international sporting

Dynamic and supportive work culture

Descripción de la vacante

Placements24 is seeking a Sports Event Operations Director to oversee major events in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal. This senior role requires exceptional organizational skills, strategic planning, and proven ability to manage complex logistics for high-profile sports events to ensure excellent participant and spectator experiences.

You will lead operational teams, manage budgets, coordinate with governing bodies and sponsors, and implement risk management strategies.

Formación

• Bachelor's degree in Event Management, Sports Management, or related field.
• Minimum 8 years in sports event management with senior leadership experience.
• Proven track record managing large-scale international or national events.
• Expertise in venue management, logistics, risk assessment, and finance.
• Strong leadership, stakeholder management, and negotiation skills.
• Proficiency with project management software and Office tools.
• Deep understanding of South Africa's Leisure & Sports landscape.

Responsabilidades

• Develop and execute comprehensive operational plans for assigned events.
• Oversee venue management, setup, and teardown.
• Manage budgets, cost control, and financial oversight.
• Coordinate with governing bodies, sponsors, emergency services, and authorities.
• Lead diverse teams of volunteers and contractors and monitor risk.
• Conduct post-event evaluations and reporting for improvements.

Conocimientos

Senior leadership

Logistics planning

Budget oversight

Stakeholder management

Leadership

Risk management

Vendor procurement

Regulatory compliance

Project management

South Africa sports landscape

Educación

Bachelor's degree in Event Management

Herramientas

MS Project

MS Office

Project management software

Descripción del empleo

About the Role

Our client, a leading entity in the Leisure & Sports sector, is searching for an accomplished Sports Event Operations Director to oversee major events in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal. This senior leadership position demands exceptional organizational skills, strategic planning capabilities, and a proven ability to manage complex logistics for high-profile sports events. The Director will be responsible for all operational aspects, from venue management and security to stakeholder coordination and budget control, ensuring seamless execution and outstanding participant and spectator experiences. The role requires a proactive leader who thrives in dynamic environments and possesses a deep understanding of event management best practices within the sports context. Joining our client means contributing to the vibrant sports culture of Durban and South Africa, working with a dedicated team committed to excellence.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and execute comprehensive operational plans for all assigned sports events.
• Manage all aspects of event logistics, including venue selection, setup, and teardown.
• Oversee budgeting, financial management, and cost control for event operations.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant health, safety, and security regulations.
• Lead and manage diverse operational teams, including volunteers and contractors.
• Coordinate with external stakeholders, including governing bodies, sponsors, emergency services, and local authorities.
• Develop and implement risk management strategies to mitigate potential issues.
• Manage the procurement of services and equipment necessary for event execution.
• Monitor event progress and troubleshoot operational challenges in real-time.
• Conduct post-event evaluations and reporting to identify areas for improvement.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Event Management, Sports Management, Business Administration, or a related field.
• Minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in sports event management, with a significant portion in a directorial or senior management role.
• Demonstrated success in planning and executing large-scale international or national sporting events.
• Expertise in venue management, logistics, risk assessment, and financial oversight.
• Strong leadership, team management, and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent negotiation and stakeholder management abilities.
• Proficiency in project management software and standard office applications.
• A deep understanding of the Leisure & Sports landscape in South Africa.
• Ability to work under pressure and manage multiple priorities effectively.
• Willingness to travel and work irregular hours, including weekends and holidays, as required by event schedules.

Benefits

• Our client offers an attractive salary package, commensurate with experience and the scope of the role, along with annual performance bonuses.
• Comprehensive health insurance, retirement fund contributions, and generous leave allowances are provided.
• The position comes with opportunities for significant professional growth, exposure to international sporting events, and the chance to be part of shaping the future of sports in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal.
• A dynamic and supportive work environment is guaranteed.