Sports Event Operations Manager

Placements24; Gqeberha; Hybrid; ZAR 450,000 - 650,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Hybrid work model

Professional development opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 in Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape, is seeking an experienced Sports Event Operations Manager. This hybrid role combines on-site event management with remote planning to ensure seamless execution of diverse sporting events.

The ideal candidate will have 5+ years in sports event operations, a relevant bachelor's degree, and a proven ability to manage venues, vendors, budgets, and teams while maintaining safety and quality standards.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in a relevant field.
• Minimum of 5 years in sports event operations or management.
• Proven track record of successfully managing large-scale sports events.
• Excellent organizational, planning, and logistical skills.
• Strong leadership and team management abilities.
• Proficiency in budget management and financial reporting.
• Excellent negotiation and vendor management skills.
• Ability to work under pressure and meet tight deadlines.

Responsibilities

• Plan, organize, and execute a variety of sports events within timelines and budgets.
• Manage all operational aspects: venue setup, staffing, security, catering.
• Source, negotiate with, and manage relationships with third-party vendors and suppliers.
• Develop and implement event safety and emergency protocols.
• Coordinate with leagues, teams, and governing bodies on logistics.
• Oversee budget development and tracking of expenses.
• Manage event staff and volunteers with clear direction.
• Conduct post-event evaluations and report on performance.

Skills

Organizational skills

Budget management

Vendor management

Leadership

Communication

Negotiation

Problem-solving

Travel flexibility

Education

Bachelor's degree in Sports Management or related field

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent name in the Leisure & Sports industry, is looking for a detail-oriented and experienced Sports Event Operations Manager to join their team in Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape . This role is pivotal in ensuring the seamless execution of all sporting events, from conception to post-event analysis. You will be responsible for managing logistics, coordinating with vendors, overseeing venue operations, and ensuring the safety and satisfaction of all participants and spectators. The ideal candidate possesses strong organizational skills, excellent leadership qualities, and a passion for delivering high-quality sports events. This hybrid role requires a balance of on-site event management and remote administrative planning.

Key Responsibilities

• Plan, organize, and execute a variety of sports events, ensuring adherence to timelines and budgets.
• Manage all operational aspects of events, including venue setup, staffing, security, and catering.
• Source, negotiate with, and manage relationships with third-party vendors and suppliers.
• Develop and implement event safety and emergency protocols, ensuring compliance with regulations.
• Coordinate with sports leagues, teams, and governing bodies regarding event logistics and requirements.
• Oversee budget development and management for all assigned events, tracking expenses closely.
• Manage event staff and volunteers, providing clear direction and support.
• Conduct post-event evaluations and prepare detailed reports on event performance, identifying areas for improvement.
• Liaise with marketing and communications teams to ensure effective promotion and coverage of events.
• Maintain strong relationships with venue management and local authorities.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Sports Management, Event Management, Business Administration, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in sports event operations or management.
• Proven track record of successfully managing large-scale sports events.
• Excellent organizational, planning, and logistical skills.
• Strong leadership and team management abilities.
• Proficiency in budget management and financial reporting.
• Excellent negotiation and vendor management skills.
• Ability to work under pressure and meet strict deadlines.
• Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to think on your feet.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Willingness to travel and work flexible hours, including weekends and evenings, as event schedules dictate.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary, comprehensive benefits package, opportunities for professional development, and the chance to be part of exciting sporting events in Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape . This hybrid role provides a dynamic work environment where your contributions directly impact the success of high-profile sporting occasions.