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

About the Role

Our client, a premier destination management company operating in **Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal**, is seeking a seasoned Waterfront Events & Operations Manager. This critical role is responsible for overseeing the planning, execution, and management of all events and daily operations along the waterfront. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in event management, operational logistics, and stakeholder coordination within a hospitality or tourism context, specifically in a waterfront or marine environment. You will ensure the highest standards of service, safety, and guest experience, contributing to the vibrancy and success of this key **Leisure & Sports** location. This is a hands‑on role requiring a strong presence at the venue.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement strategic plans for waterfront events, including festivals, corporate functions, and water‑based activities.
• Oversee the daily operations of the waterfront, managing staff, resources, and service delivery.
• Ensure all operational activities comply with health, safety, environmental, and maritime regulations.
• Manage budgets, control costs, and drive revenue generation through events and services.
• Coordinate with vendors, suppliers, and external partners to ensure seamless operations and event execution.
• Develop and maintain strong relationships with local authorities, marine services, and community stakeholders.
• Oversee the maintenance and upkeep of waterfront facilities, docks, and equipment.
• Manage staffing, including recruitment, training, scheduling, and performance management of operational and event teams.
• Implement customer service standards and ensure exceptional experiences for all visitors.
• Respond effectively to emergencies and manage crisis situations on the waterfront.

Requirements

• Minimum 7 years of experience in event management and operations management, preferably in a waterfront, marina, or hospitality setting.
• Proven experience in managing complex events and day-to-day operational logistics.
• Strong understanding of health, safety, and environmental regulations relevant to waterfront operations.
• Excellent leadership, team management, and communication skills.
• Demonstrated financial acumen, including budgeting and P&L management.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including weekends, evenings, and public holidays.
• A relevant degree or diploma in Hospitality Management, Event Management, Operations Management, or a related field.
• Strong problem‑solving skills and the ability to make sound decisions under pressure.
• Proficiency in relevant operational software and systems.
• Residency in or willingness to relocate to **Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal**.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive remuneration package, comprehensive health benefits, and opportunities for professional development.
• This role provides significant autonomy and the chance to shape unique experiences in a beautiful **Leisure & Sports** setting.
• You will be joining a respected organization committed to excellence in **KwaZulu-Natal**'s tourism and recreation sector.