Operations Manager in Farnborough

Tecna is a leading events and exhibitions organisation based in Farnborough, specialising in the design, production, and delivery of high-impact exhibition stands and live event solutions across the UK and internationally. We’re passionate about creativity, quality, and innovation — and we’re proud to bring our clients’ visions to life.

As Operations Manager, you’ll take ownership of the day‑to‑day running of Tecna’s operational/Installation function, ensuring that all projects are planned, resourced, and executed to the highest standards. You’ll coordinate teams, manage workflows, and continuously look for ways to improve efficiency and service delivery. This is an exciting, hands‑on role for someone who thrives in a fast‑paced, creative environment and enjoys leading people and processes to deliver exceptional results.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee and manage all operational aspects of exhibition and event projects from planning to on‑site delivery.
• Manage all labour, including sub‑contracted labour, effectively to maximise efficiency and minimise expense.
• Ensure all labour is effectively briefed and on task each day, with progress against builds monitored and updated to allow troubleshooting and prioritisation.
• Check, maintain, and service all vehicles in line with maintenance guidelines, holding valid MOT certificates for each.
• Manage the use of vehicles, including rentals, effectively to maximise efficiency and minimise expense.
• Focus on quality assurance and efficiency, ensuring all Pre‑Builds are built, checked, and broken down efficiently and on schedule.
• Manage installs and rips efficiently to maintain Tecna’s quality standard and minimise errors or inefficiencies.
• Continuously drive innovation and best practice within all aspects of Pre‑Build, Install, and Rip.
• Regularly review and improve workflows and processes across Pre‑Build, Install, and Rips to deliver efficient, error‑free, and high‑quality outcomes.
• Lead and support the operations team, ensuring clear communication, accountability, and collaboration across departments.
• Develop and maintain project schedules, logistics, and resource planning to meet deadlines and budgets.
• Liaise with clients, suppliers, and internal teams to ensure all operational requirements are met.
• Monitor and refine operational processes, identifying opportunities for improvement in efficiency and quality.
• Go on‑site when required to oversee and assess installations and dismantles, whether for whole team, Hero projects, or on‑site assessment of staff performance.
• Ensure compliance with health & safety and industry regulations across all operations.
• Support senior management in strategic planning, budgeting, and reporting.
• Keep all administration up to date.

About You

• Proven experience in operations management within the events industry is desirable.
• Strong organisational and multitasking skills, with the ability to stay calm under pressure.
• Excellent communication and leadership skills, with a hands‑on, team‑focused approach.
• Solid understanding of logistics, scheduling, and project coordination.
• Confident managing budgets, timelines, and supplier relationships.
• Knowledge of health & safety requirements and site operations.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office and familiar with project or production management tools.
• Experience with Monday.com is desirable.

Why Join Tecna?

• Competitive salary of up to £50,000 per annum.
• Work with a passionate and creative team in a fast‑growing company.
• Opportunity to make a visible impact and help shape how we deliver projects.
• Friendly, supportive, and collaborative working culture.
• Parking on site.
• Volunteering days.
• Company events.
• Private health care.