Operations Director in Manchester

Operations Director (Events & Installations)
Visual Architects is a leading creator of immersive environments, bespoke scenic builds and large scale installations for events, festivals, nightlife, retail and experiential brands.
Our in house design, technical and fabrication teams work together to transform spaces into unforgettable visual worlds, from themed rooms and festival stages to complex décor, props, scenic sets and full-scale immersive experiences.
We are entering an exciting new chapter.
The company is on a strategic path of growth that will see Visual Architects evolve into
three specialist companies by ****
.
We are laying the foundations for this transformation now, strengthening our production capabilities and building the systems, standards and structures for the future.
This is a rare opportunity to join at a defining moment in our journey.
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About you
Are you a highly organised, people focused Operations Director who thrives in a fast paced environment?
Do you love improving systems, managing logistics, leading teams and making complex projects run smoothly?
Visual Architects is looking for a dynamic Operations Director to take full ownership of our operational delivery across the UK, Europe and worldwide.
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The Role
We are looking for an Operations Director to oversee the entire operational flow of the business, ensuring all departments work together smoothly including Installations, Warehouse, Construction, Logistics and International Freight.
You will lead the Installation Managers, manage van and transport logistics, coordinate European and worldwide freight, ensure jobs are fully prepared with the correct tools and equipment, and oversee the full prep to return cycle in the warehouse.
You\’ll work alongside the Head of Sales to move jobs quickly into production and deliver more installations with efficiency, quality and consistency.
This role does not require hands-on installation knowledge.
You\’ll be supported by our Installation Training & Operations Coordinator, who understands our products, tools and technical methods and will help bridge the technical gap.
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Key Responsibilities
Lead all operational departments and Installation Managers
Oversee scheduling, staffing, and workforce planning
Manage all vans, drivers, routing and day to day logistics
Plan and oversee freight across the UK, Europe and worldwide
Ensure every job leaves with the correct tools, equipment and build items
Oversee warehouse prep, stock return, repairs and readiness
Liaise with venues on RAMS, access information and health & safety
Improve operational processes, communication and efficiency
Support recruitment, onboarding and installer skill development
Work with Sales to push confirmed jobs quickly into production
Drive KPIs around output, job quality, logistics efficiency and stock accuracy
Lead continuous improvement across tools, systems, vans and processes
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What We\’re Looking For
Proven operations management experience (events, logistics, production or similar)
Strong scheduling, planning and organisational ability
Confident managing vans, drivers and multi-site logistics
Experience with European or global freight is a major advantage
A calm, structured and solutions-focused mindset
Great people skills and ability to lead teams
Strong communication skills and ability to coordinate multiple departments
Highly organised, detail-led and process driven
Able to thrive in a fast-paced, deadline driven environment
You do not need technical installation expertise — we have internal specialists to support you.
We need a strong operational leader who can bring structure, clarity and efficiency.
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Why Join Us?
Work on large-scale creative and immersive projects
Be part of a growing business expanding across the UK and internationally
Lead a talented team and shape how the company operates
Real progression opportunities as the business scales
A collaborative and supportive culture with a passion for creativity
APPLY NOW
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