At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the operational planning and delivery of large-scale exhibitions and conferences.
- Company: Fast-growing events and media business with a strong reputation.
- Benefits: Ownership of projects, long-term career progression, and high visibility within the organisation.
- Other info: Opportunity to work closely with diverse teams and manage significant budgets.
- Why this job: Shape event delivery and enhance customer experience in a dynamic environment.
- Qualifications: Five years' experience in senior operations for large-scale events and strong project management skills.
We’re working in partnership with a fast-growing, highly respected events and media business to recruit a Senior Operations Manager for a portfolio of market-leading exhibitions within the built environment sector. This is a fantastic opportunity to take ownership of the operational delivery of some of the UK's largest and most influential B2B events, ensuring exceptional experiences for exhibitors, sponsors and visitors alike. If you thrive in a fast-paced events environment and enjoy managing complex exhibition operations from planning through to onsite delivery, this role offers significant responsibility, visibility and long-term career progression.
The Role
As Senior Operations Manager, you will lead the operational planning and delivery of a portfolio of large-scale exhibitions and conferences, working closely with commercial, marketing, content, design and senior leadership teams. You will be responsible for ensuring events are delivered safely, efficiently, on budget and to the highest standards, whilst continually improving operational processes and customer experience. The role covers all aspects of event operations including venue management, floorplans, exhibitor services, logistics, registration, signage, feature areas, AV, contractor management and onsite delivery. You will act as the senior operational lead throughout build-up, live event days and breakdown periods. You will also manage event operational budgets, oversee supplier procurement and contract negotiations, monitor supplier performance and identify opportunities to improve efficiencies while maintaining a first-class exhibitor and visitor experience. Working closely with internal teams across Sales, Marketing, Design, Content and Finance, you will help deliver successful events while ensuring all operational objectives are achieved. The role also includes line management responsibility for an Operations Executive, providing leadership, coaching and ongoing development.
A key part of the position will involve overseeing health and safety compliance across the event portfolio, ensuring all events are delivered in line with venue regulations, industry standards and company policies. This will include managing risk assessments, contractor compliance and operational safety planning.
About You
To be successful in this role, you will have a minimum of five years' experience delivering large-scale exhibitions, conferences or B2B events within a senior operations capacity. You will possess strong project management and organisational skills, along with experience managing operational budgets, suppliers, contractors and onsite event delivery. You should have a strong understanding of exhibition operations, venue regulations, stand build processes and health and safety requirements. Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills are essential, along with the ability to lead multiple projects simultaneously in a fast-paced environment. Experience within the construction, built environment or trade exhibition sectors would be advantageous, as would an IOSH Managing Safely qualification, NEBOSH certification or AutoCAD experience.
What’s in it for you?
This is an opportunity to take ownership of a portfolio of market-leading exhibitions within a growing and highly successful events business. You’ll play a key role in shaping event delivery, driving operational excellence and enhancing customer experience, whilst benefiting from strong long-term career progression and high visibility within the organisation.
Senior Operations Manager in Loughton employer: Greys Specialist Recruitment
Join a dynamic and rapidly expanding events and media business that values innovation and excellence in the exhibitions sector. As a Senior Operations Manager, you will enjoy a collaborative work culture that fosters professional growth and offers significant career advancement opportunities. With a focus on delivering exceptional experiences for exhibitors and visitors, this role provides the chance to lead impactful projects while working alongside talented teams in a vibrant environment.
Contact Details:
Greys Specialist Recruitment Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Operations Manager in Loughton
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with industry professionals at events, conferences, or even online. Building relationships can open doors to opportunities that aren’t advertised.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its events. Show them you’re not just another candidate; demonstrate your passion for their exhibitions and how your experience aligns with their goals.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to explain how your skills in managing complex operations can enhance their event delivery. Confidence is key, so rehearse until it feels natural.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Operations Manager in Loughton
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Senior Operations Manager role. Highlight your experience in managing large-scale exhibitions and any relevant skills that match the job description. We want to see how your background aligns with our needs!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to tell us why you're passionate about event management and how your skills can contribute to our team. Be sure to mention specific experiences that demonstrate your operational expertise.
Showcase Your Achievements:When detailing your past roles, focus on your achievements rather than just responsibilities. Quantify your successes where possible, like budget management or successful event delivery, to give us a clear picture of your impact.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother application process. It helps us keep track of your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy!
How to prepare for a job interview at Greys Specialist Recruitment
✨Know Your Events Inside Out
Before the interview, dive deep into the company's portfolio of exhibitions and events. Familiarise yourself with their past events, key themes, and any recent news. This will not only show your genuine interest but also help you discuss how your experience aligns with their operational needs.
✨Showcase Your Project Management Skills
Prepare specific examples from your previous roles where you successfully managed large-scale events. Highlight your project management techniques, budget handling, and how you ensured compliance with health and safety regulations. This will demonstrate your capability to lead complex operations effectively.
✨Communicate Clearly and Confidently
Strong communication is key in this role. Practice articulating your thoughts clearly, especially when discussing your experience with stakeholder management and team leadership. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses for clarity.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the company’s future events, operational challenges they face, or how they measure success. This shows that you’re not just interested in the role but are also thinking strategically about how you can contribute to their goals.
