Digital Media Operations Director

The Operations Director will be responsible for core operational functions, ensuring that all teams deliver high-quality outputs that meet client and audience needs. This role will drive efficiency, innovation, and excellence across all areas of responsibility, ensuring that the company’s operational capabilities support sustainable growth and competitive advantage.

The role will be responsible for the Business Systems, Creative Services, CRM, Data, Events Logistics & Marketing Delivery functions to deliver operational excellence, aligning with business objectives.

The Summary: We are recruiting for an Operations Director, the role requires a hands-on, results-driven leader who can manage diverse teams, implement robust processes, and foster a culture of accountability and continuous improvement. The Operations Director will report to the Chief Operating Officer (COO) and work closely with the Senior Leadership Team, combining strategic leadership with hands-on ownership to develop and drive the overarching operational strategies and ensure its successful implementation.

The successful applicant should have more than 7 years’ experience in a senior operations role within a commercial environment with a proven track record of success, ideally within a Media or Marketing services company.

The Role:

• Set and deliver the operations strategy to drive innovation, automation, and excellence across all areas of responsibility, ensuring that the Company’s operational capabilities support sustainable growth and competitive advantage.
• Ensure Company systems, platforms & websites are developed and maintained to achieve optimal performance.
• Refine and improve existing systems & processes with a strong focus on UX/UI.
• Optimise cost management & foster strong relationships with key systems or services suppliers.
• Oversee deployment of Creative resources (internal & external) to ensure all business design/multimedia/production requirements are met.
• Ensure the Data team delivers actionable insights to support business objectives and optimise audience engagement, revenue generation and operational efficiency.
• Leverage data and analytics to inform operational decisions and drive performance improvements.
• Ensure all event logistics are delivered to the highest quality, ensuring a seamless experience for all stakeholders (physical & virtual) in delivering the annual program of events.
• Work with the Marketing Delivery team on resource deployment/allocations to meet campaign delivery requirements for all brands; work with other relevant stakeholders to streamline workflows whilst delivering exceptional client service levels and campaign performance.
• Mitigate operational risks, ensuring compliance with industry regulations and internal policies.
• Assume DPO responsibilities through best practice data governance & compliance with GDPR.
• Setting strategic direction for the team, including OKRs & KPIs setting, execution, implement reporting, tracking/monitoring and continuous evolution of objectives.
• Management of relevant processes & systems for department and implementation of best practice.

Keys Skills and Experience:

• Degree in Business, Operations Management, or a related field preferred; equivalent professional experience will be considered.
• 7 years’ experience in a senior operations role within a commercial environment with a proven track record of success.
• Advanced understanding of legislation including GDPR and compliance relating to media operations and use of information.
• Demonstrated success in managing multiple operational functions and delivering measurable business improvements.
• Proven track record of leading high-performing teams and delivering operational excellence in a dynamic environment including change management.
• Supplier management, negotiating and budgeting including being able to implement cost-saving measures where appropriate without compromising quality.
• Proven ability to lead and optimise large-scale operational functions within a B2B media/marketing services or events business.
• Highly competent in project and stakeholder management with excellent interpersonal skills.
• Experienced with project management tools, CRM systems and data analytics platforms.
• Knowledge of digital product development, event operations and emerging technologies relevant to media and events.
• Proficiency in leveraging data and analytics to inform strategy and optimise outcome.
• Leadership skills with the ability to motivate and empower.
• Excellent communication with both internal and external stakeholders in a professional manner to ensure that the highest standards are maintained.

Application: Due to the nature of our location, applicants will require their own vehicle to travel to work. If you would like to apply, please apply via LinkedIn or send your CV and salary expectations to Nicola Gilmore.

Company Benefits: We are committed to ensuring everyone feels included, valued and appreciated and we offer a supportive, flexible working environment, amazing opportunities for personal and professional development. Other benefits also include:

• Hybrid working (2 days in the office).
• Pension contribution.
• Free car parking.
• Benefits platform with discounts, wellness and engagement tools.
• Christmas closure.
• Company events.

About Us: Russell Publishing is a leading multimedia company delivering business content, insights and events worldwide across 6 brands: New Food Magazine, European Pharmaceutical Review, Drug Target Review, Global Railway Review, and International Airport Review. We pride our business on putting our people first, enabling innovation within our service & product and continuous improvement – personally, professionally and across our services. Russell Publishing believes in equal opportunities, and we encourage inclusion and diversity.