Graduate Operations Manager (Permanent) in London

We are a busy media and events company looking for a Senior Operations Manager to take ownership of the operational delivery of our exhibitions and large-scale events. As the operational lead, you will manage, develop, and inspire the operations team, so proven team-management skills are essential.

You will be responsible for the end-to-end operational planning and on-site delivery of our event portfolio - coordinating suppliers, contractors, venues, and internal teams to ensure every event runs safely, on time, and to the highest standard.

Mash Media is an independent media and events company based in Kingston upon Thames. Specialising in the events and exhibitions industry, Mash Media is best known as the publisher of leading industry titles including Exhibition News and Conference News, and as the organiser of flagship events such as International Confex - one of the UK's premier gatherings for event professionals. With a reputation for delivering high-quality content, awards, and large-scale events, Mash Media sits at the heart of the events community, connecting and championing the industry it serves.

• Lead the operational planning and delivery of exhibitions and other satellite events from concept through to post-event wrap-up.
• Develop and manage detailed critical path schedules, ensuring all milestones and deadlines are met across multiple concurrent projects.
• Produce, manage, and amend event floorplans, working closely with sales, exhibitors, and contractors.
• Build and maintain strong supplier and contractor relationships, leading on procurement and negotiation with venues, suppliers, and contractors to secure the best value and coordinate all operational requirements.
• Own health, safety, and compliance for events, including risk assessments, method statements, and on-site safety management.
• Manage event budgets and operational spend, tracking costs and finding creative, commercially minded solutions to bring events in under budget.
• Solve problems quickly and calmly as they arise, both in the planning phase and live on-site.
• Drive staff development and training, identifying growth opportunities and helping team members build their skills and progress.
• Assume some facilities management duties during quieter periods in the event calendar, helping to keep the office and wider operation running smoothly.

Proven team-management experience, with a track record of leading, developing, and training teams.

Full, valid UK driving licence.

Floor planning software - proficiency with floorplan design tools (Event Floorplan Designer experience ideal).

Critical path / project management — confident building and managing schedules and project plans.

Excel - strong working knowledge for budgets, schedules, and data management.

Key qualities: Highly organised — keeps complex projects and details under control.

Salary: £50K - £60K based on experience, bonus structure OTE and potential to earn commission from contra and barter agreements made, ~30 days holiday + public holidays.

Mash Media Group is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from all suitably qualified candidates.