Sports Event Operations Manager

Placements24; Durban; On-site; ZAR 700,000 - 1,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary package

Medical aid including hospital cover

Retirement fund contribution

Professional development opportunities

Generous annual leave

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a highly organized Sports Event Operations Manager to oversee event execution in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal. You will lead all operational aspects from planning and budgeting to on-site delivery, coordinating with internal teams and external partners to ensure exceptional experiences for athletes and spectators.

The role demands strong leadership, logistics expertise, and the ability to perform under pressure while maintaining the highest standards of event management in Durban.

Responsibilities

• Plan, organize, and manage all operational aspects of assigned sporting events, ensuring they run smoothly and efficiently.
• Develop detailed operational plans, including logistics, venue management, security, staffing, and transportation.
• Coordinate with internal teams (marketing, finance, sponsorship) and external stakeholders (local authorities, vendors, suppliers) to ensure alignment and effective execution.
• Manage event budgets, tracking expenses and ensuring cost-effectiveness without compromising quality.
• Oversee recruitment, training, and management of event staff and volunteers.
• Develop and implement comprehensive risk management and contingency plans.
• Ensure compliance with health, safety, and licensing regulations.
• Conduct post-event evaluations and produce detailed reports for future improvements.
• Serve as primary point of contact for operational queries during event days.

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a renowned organizer of major sporting events, is seeking a highly organized and experienced Sports Event Operations Manager to oversee the successful execution of events in **Durban, KwaZulu-Natal**. This hands‑on role requires a strategic thinker with exceptional logistical capabilities and a passion for sports. You will be responsible for all operational aspects of events, from initial planning and budgeting through to execution and post‑event evaluation. Working closely with various internal departments and external vendors, you will ensure seamless delivery of high‑quality experiences for athletes, spectators, and sponsors. The ideal candidate thrives under pressure, possesses strong leadership skills, and is committed to upholding the highest standards of event management in the vibrant coastal city of **Durban**.

Key Responsibilities

• Plan, organize, and manage all operational aspects of assigned sporting events, ensuring they run smoothly and efficiently.
• Develop detailed operational plans, including logistics, venue management, security, staffing, and transportation.
• Coordinate with internal teams (e.g., marketing, finance, sponsorship) and external stakeholders (e.g., local authorities, vendors, suppliers) to ensure alignment and effective execution.
• Manage event budgets, tracking expenses and ensuring cost-effectiveness without compromising quality.
• Oversee the recruitment, training, and management of event staff and volunteers.
• Develop and implement comprehensive risk management and contingency plans.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant health, safety, and licensing regulations.
• Conduct post-event evaluations, gathering feedback and producing detailed reports for future improvements.
• Serve as a primary point of contact for operational queries during event days.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Sports Management, Event Management, Business Administration, or a related discipline.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in event operations, specifically within the sports industry.
• Proven experience managing complex sporting events from conception to completion.
• Excellent understanding of event logistics, venue operations, and stakeholder management.
• Strong financial acumen and experience in budget management.
• Demonstrated leadership and team management capabilities.
• Exceptional organizational and time-management skills, with the ability to multitask and prioritize effectively.
• Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to remain calm and effective under pressure.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build rapport with diverse groups.
• Proficiency in event management software and standard office applications.
• Willingness to work irregular hours, including evenings and weekends, as required by event schedules in **Durban, KwaZulu-Natal**.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary package, including potential performance bonuses.
• Employees receive comprehensive medical aid, including hospital cover, and a retirement fund contribution.
• Opportunities for professional development through industry certifications and workshops are supported.
• You will also be entitled to generous annual leave and access to company-sponsored social events.
• This role provides a dynamic work environment in the scenic city of **Durban**.