Events Operations Manager in Milton Keynes

Our client has a Public Events team thriving on adrenaline and energy, working tirelessly year-round to deliver over 40 world-class events on brief, on time, and within budget. With a calendar more diverse than ever, featuring everything from two wheels to four, they are constantly growing stronger.

You will take charge of your own projects, ensuring you meet the high standards expected of a premier venue. It’s not an easy ride, but a guarantee is it won’t be boring. You’ll be surrounded by passionate, like-minded teammates who give their all to get the job done.

JOB PURPOSE: A world-renowned hub for motorsport, hosting a diverse range of race and leisure events that attract fans, families, enthusiasts, and leading brand partners. With a commitment to innovation and excellence, we are seeking a creative and strategic Senior Event Manager to elevate the event portfolio through cutting-edge trends and technologies.

As Senior Event Manager, you will be responsible for shaping the creative and operational vision for public events. You’ll integrate the latest event innovations with thrilling motorsport experiences to deliver an unforgettable journey from ticketing and fan engagement to post-event legacy.

You will lead the end-to-end operational delivery for public events, ensuring every aspect from planning and infrastructure to safety and on-the-day execution is delivered to the highest standard. A key focus of this role is working closely with organisers and internal teams to deliver events that not only meet but exceed delivery expectations, enhancing the overall experience for participants and spectators alike.

Alongside operational excellence, you will play a pivotal role in driving continuous improvement and innovation across event delivery. This includes identifying and implementing new processes, technologies, and fan engagement strategies that enhance the overall experience, support sustainability goals, and align with this evolving brand vision.

This leadership position requires a proactive, detail-oriented professional with proven experience in delivering large-scale public events, enhancing fan engagement, driving operational excellence, and supporting strategic objectives.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Develop a 3-year strategic plan to deliver innovative, operationally flawless events that set new standards in fan and guest experience.
• Take full ownership of allocated events and projects, ensuring they are delivered on time, within scope, and to budget.
• Lead on event budget management, including forecasting, tracking, and reporting, ensuring financial accountability and value for money.
• Monitor industry trends and introduce immersive concepts that enhance atmosphere and broaden audience appeal across both motorsport and leisure events.
• Collaborate with event organisers and stakeholders to align creative vision with brand and market developments.
• Coordinate with internal departments to ensure infrastructure, security, and stewarding meet event requirements.
• Create and manage detailed production schedules, operational plans, and timelines, ensuring all deadlines are met and stakeholders are aligned.
• Lead and mentor direct reports, supporting team growth and accountability.
• Drive procurement strategies that deliver cost efficiencies and uphold quality, safety, and operational standards.
• Oversee site design to ensure layouts are functional, visually impactful, and compliant with safety regulations.
• Lead post-event reviews, assess performance against KPIs, and embed learnings into future planning.

Technology Integration & Innovation:

• Collaborate with internal teams and external partners to explore and implement emerging technologies such as AR/VR, AI tools, interactive displays, and live streaming that enhance the attendee experience.
• Support the evaluation and integration of technology solutions across the event lifecycle, ensuring smooth deployment from pre-event communications to on-site delivery and post-event engagement.
• Contribute to the development of digital platforms, including the event app, by identifying usability improvements and engagement opportunities that align with operational goals and audience needs.

Fan-Centric Experience Design:

• Design a seamless, data-driven attendee journey that incorporates immersive environments and modern service trends.
• Use analytics and feedback to tailor event elements, manage crowds, and deploy gamification and personalised experiences.

Leadership & Cross-Functional Collaboration:

• Develop and grow a commercially and operationally strong team that delivers high-impact events aligned with strategic goals.
• Support recruitment, onboarding, and succession planning to build a resilient and high-performing team.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams including marketing, operations, hospitality, commercial, and partnerships to ensure cohesive planning and execution.
• Support the partnership team in operationally integrating sponsor deliverables and activations into the event environment, ensuring alignment with infrastructure, safety, and audience experience.
• Represent the operational and fan experience perspective in strategic discussions, contributing insights and reporting to senior leadership.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND QUALIFICATIONS:

• Proven experience in fan engagement, event management / project management and marketing at a senior level, ideally within sports or entertainment.
• A deep understanding of global trends within events and the ability to apply innovative solutions to elevate events.
• Passion for motorsport and entertainment, with a commitment to delivering world-class events.
• Proven expertise in health and safety management and regulatory compliance.
• Flexible approach to working hours, including evening and weekend work particularly between events.