Operations Manager (Events)

• Operations Events Manager
• c£45,000 basic
• Full Time
• Office Based

About Us

House Recruiting is proud to represent a dynamic and forward-thinking company known for delivering world-class live consumer events. With a portfolio of award-winning exhibitions and digital platforms, this organization is at the forefront of the design, interiors, lifestyle, and construction sectors. Their events have been recognized as industry leaders, praised for creativity, impact, and customer experience. Passion, innovation, and excellence are at the heart of everything they do, and they’re looking for an Operations Manager to share in that passion.

About the Role
The Operations Manager will play a pivotal role in ensuring the successful delivery of large-scale live consumer events. From budget management to supplier coordination, this role is all about making sure everything runs smoothly from initial planning to event completion. You will be a key player in the end-to-end operations of flagship events, leading on logistics, health and safety, on-site management, and cross-departmental coordination.

Key Responsibilities

Event Management & Operations

• Oversee the end-to-end delivery of large-scale consumer events, ensuring everything runs smoothly and to schedule.

• Coordinate with and manage external operations teams, suppliers, and venue partners.

• Oversee and track event budgets, ensuring each event is delivered on or under budget.

• Collaborate with internal teams, including sales, marketing, sponsorship, and creative departments, to ensure successful event delivery.

• Plan, create, and manage event signage schedules, ensuring alignment with sponsor branding and venue requirements.

• Oversee the procurement and management of event furniture, decor, and on-site materials for feature areas.

• Ensure the timely logging and management of invoices against budget planners.

• Lead the creative development and design of event feature areas, working within budget constraints.

• Research, source, and secure innovative products and services to enhance event features.

• Manage show schedules, ensuring deadlines are met across all event touchpoints.

• Ensure sponsorship deadlines are adhered to and that sponsor-branded features are up to date.

• Coordinate with venues to ensure timely delivery and setup of catering areas.

• On-site management of suppliers, contractors, and vendors during event build and breakdown phases.

• Oversee and manage the scheduling and delivery of on-site requirements such as furniture, decor, catering, staffing, signage, and other essential event elements.

• Maintain strong working relationships with all internal departments and external partners.

• Take full ownership of the event planning process, providing clear direction and oversight to ensure seamless execution.

Health & Safety

• Ensure all event staff, contractors, and suppliers are briefed on health and safety protocols.

• Manage health and safety on-site, ensuring compliance with company policies and industry best practices.

• Obtain and review health and safety policies from main contractors.

• Prepare comprehensive health and safety reports following each event, making recommendations for improvement.

• Carry out investigations for any on-site incidents or accidents.

• Ensure all teams are aware of emergency procedures and escalation protocols.

• Produce risk assessments and method statements for each event.

• Promote a culture of health and safety excellence among suppliers, contractors, and venue staff.

About You
You’re a hands-on leader with a passion for live events and a track record of operational excellence. Your experience working on large-scale exhibitions and events has given you a deep understanding of everything from health and safety to supplier management. You’re creative, highly organized, and have the tenacity to meet tight deadlines in a fast-paced environment. Collaboration comes naturally to you, and you’re skilled at working with diverse teams to deliver exceptional experiences.

Skills & Experience

• Proven experience in a senior operations role, managing large-scale events, exhibitions, and conferences.

• Expertise in planning and executing large live events, including venue management, supplier coordination, and budget control.

• Strong knowledge of health and safety standards within event and exhibition venues, with an IOSH certificate (essential) and NEBOSH (preferred).

• Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written, with a proven ability to engage stakeholders at all levels.

• Proficiency in tools such as Microsoft Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Outlook, and AutoCAD.

• Knowledge of exhibition stand regulations and venue rules and regulations.

• Experience managing and optimizing floor plans and exhibitor spaces.

• Knowledge of freight forwarding processes and exhibitor manual software.

• Ability to manage supplier relationships, ensuring high service standards while maintaining strong professional relationships.

• Strong time management and multitasking skills with the ability to meet deadlines under pressure.

• Detail-oriented with a creative and innovative approach to problem-solving.

• Team player with a supportive, collaborative approach.

• Confident, assertive, and diplomatic when dealing with suppliers and internal stakeholders.