Sports Event Operations Manager

Placements24; Johannesburg; Hybrid; ZAR 600,000 - 900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Fully remote

Flexible hours

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a highly organized Sports Event Operations Manager to drive the end-to-end execution of sports events from a remote capacity. You will coordinate logistics, staffing, and vendor liaison to ensure flawless delivery, while maintaining rigorous safety and quality standards.

The role emphasizes remote collaboration, strong communication, and the ability to lead multi-stakeholder projects in a fast-paced environment.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Sports/Event Management or related field.
• Minimum 5 years in sports event operations or large-scale events.
• Experience managing remote logistics and virtual coordination.

Responsibilities

• Oversee all logistical and operational aspects of sports events from inception to completion.
• Develop detailed event operational plans including staffing, scheduling, and resources.
• Coordinate with venues, suppliers and services for smooth execution.
• Manage event budgets and cost control.
• Develop health, safety and security protocols for events.
• Liaise with federations, teams and athletes on operational needs.
• Oversee setup/dismantling of event infra and equipment.
• Manage remote on-site operational teams with clear guidance.

Skills

Event management

Logistics

Leadership

Communication

Negotiation

Project management

Virtual collaboration

Education

Bachelor's degree in related field

Tools

Project management software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading sports management and marketing agency, is seeking a highly organized and proactive Sports Event Operations Manager to join their team in a fully remote capacity. This role is pivotal in ensuring the seamless execution of various sports events, from initial planning stages through to post-event analysis. You will be responsible for coordinating all operational aspects, liaising with stakeholders, managing logistics, and overseeing on-site activities – all managed remotely. The ideal candidate has a proven track record in event management, exceptional logistical skills, and the ability to thrive in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment, all while working from home. This is a remote-first position, emphasizing efficient communication, digital collaboration tools, and a results-oriented approach. You will be crucial in delivering memorable and successful sporting experiences, leveraging your expertise to manage complex operations without being physically present at every venue. Our client is committed to creating a high-performance remote work culture that fosters innovation and collaboration.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee all logistical and operational aspects of sports events from inception to completion.
• Develop detailed event operational plans, including staffing, scheduling, and resource allocation.
• Coordinate with venue management, suppliers, and service providers to ensure smooth execution.
• Manage event budgets, tracking expenditures and ensuring cost-effectiveness.
• Develop and implement health, safety, and security protocols for events.
• Liaise with sports federations, teams, and athletes regarding operational requirements.
• Oversee the setup and dismantling of event infrastructure and equipment.
• Manage on-site operational teams (remotely), providing clear direction and support.
• Develop contingency plans to address potential challenges and emergencies.
• Conduct post-event evaluations, gathering feedback and preparing comprehensive reports.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Sports Management, Event Management, Hospitality, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in sports event operations or large-scale event management.
• Proven ability to manage complex logistics and operational planning remotely.
• Strong understanding of event safety, security, and risk management principles.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and negotiation skills.
• Proficiency in project management software and virtual collaboration tools.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends, as dictated by event schedules.
• Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to make sound decisions under pressure.
• Experience managing budgets and financial resources effectively.
• Must be a highly organized and self-motivated individual capable of working independently from a remote location.

Benefits

This fully remote position offers a competitive salary and the flexibility to work from your preferred location. You will have the opportunity to manage high-profile sports events and contribute to the success of a dynamic agency. Our client provides a collaborative and supportive remote working environment, along with opportunities for professional development. This role is ideal for experienced event professionals seeking autonomy and impact in the sports industry. Further details on benefits and specific remote work policies will be discussed during the interview process.