At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and grow the Event Operations team for exciting golf events.
- Company: Join a fast-growing sports and entertainment agency with a global reach.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, bonuses, private healthcare, and generous leave.
- Why this job: Make an impact in the dynamic world of sports events and travel internationally.
- Qualifications: Experience in event operations, especially in golf, and strong project management skills.
- Other info: Be part of a supportive team culture with excellent career development opportunities.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Application Deadline: 2 February 2026
Department: Event Operations
Employment Type: Permanent - Full Time
Location: London
Reporting To: Tom Warneke
ABOUT 54GROUP: 54 is a sports and entertainment agency operating across five regions and nine offices: United Kingdom (London), Europe (Sotogrande, Spain), MENA (Riyadh, Saudi Arabia & Dubai and Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates), APAC (Singapore, Vietnam & Adelaide, Australia) and USA (West Palm Beach, Florida). It works with rights holders, governing bodies, developers, household brands and major investors who share its belief in the power of sport. 54 comprises three service areas each consisting of two divisions: Strategic Advisory (Consultancy and Data & Insights), Asset Optimisation (Operations and Commercial) and Activation & Engagement (Events and Marketing). At its core, the company has an unwavering belief in embracing the opportunities offered by pushing at the edges of conventional wisdom.
ROLE OVERVIEW: The opportunity exists for a dynamic, motivated and experienced Event Operations Director with experience in Golf Events to join the 54 team, to oversee, lead and grow the Event Operations team regionally and to support the company’s growing international portfolio of professional events. The candidate will be responsible for all aspects of the operational delivery, including rightsholder, partner and client liaison, budget and project management, operations, production and logistics. An understanding of the professional sports event ecosystem specifically within Golf, its stakeholders, rightsholders and suppliers is an advantage but an ability to navigate and learn about the global events environment is also sufficient for the role. The events portfolio is expanding into new sports and territories and therefore, experience in producing a wide range of major sports events is an advantage. The desired candidate must boast extensive international event experience, strong personal motivation, demonstrate innovative and forward-thinking practices, and be comfortable working remotely as well as at the Company’s Offices. As a senior role in the 54 events division, the candidate must have extensive project management experience, with a track record of delivering multiple events successfully within tight and competitive deadlines. The candidate must be comfortable managing a variety of relationships and have the ability to travel and work in a variety of different environments and cultures.
KEY ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Strategy & Planning: Create and review key operational planning documents to ensure smooth, successful implementation and delivery across multiple projects. Design, implement and evaluate standard operating procedures (SOPs) relating to operational event delivery for continuous improvement. Future planning and manage human resource within Operations across all events regionally. Liaise with Event Directors and other key internal stakeholders to ensure SOPs are fit for purpose. Management and review of the event delivery budgets across the event portfolio. Liaise with internal legal and HR teams, and external H&S consultants to maintain best practice in insurance, legal and health and safety across the international event portfolio. Collaborate effectively with Procurement Manager and international Operations Directors to deliver cost efficiencies and high quality of product or service across events. Support across supplier negotiations, requirements, and services. Keep up to date with the latest innovations in event operations.
- Leadership & Co‑ordination: Be an excellent communicator and team player. Liaise regularly with other departments to ensure alignment. Contribute regularly, provide good insights and support in event planning meetings. Encourage and develop best‑practice across the business. Always create a positive team culture, providing support where required and creating clear development pathways for team members. Lead a team of skilled professionals to deliver a wide range of activities ensuring high standards. Act as a mentor, coach and support network for immediate and extended teams. Must be willing to travel to oversee and/or support on international events – circa 16 weeks.
- Operational Delivery: Create and review key operational planning documents to ensure smooth, successful implementation and delivery across multiple projects. Implement standard operating procedures (SOPs) relating to operational event delivery as required to ensure the event operates within 54’s Global Event standards.
- Operations Framework: Own and lead on event operations delivery and execution of specific allocated events. Oversee the build, design and usage of key operational documents including CAD Plans, Operational Schedules, Budgets and Logistics plans in line with 54 Event Operational standards. Implement, oversee and operate at all times according to the Event Operations Safety & Risk Management System and within 54’s Event Operations Risk framework.
- Management Standards: Conduct regular meetings within the operations team on the event ensuring all key areas and specialties are aligned and delivering as required. Act as a subject matter expert or key expert across the range of event operations services including site & infrastructure, site services, technical production, safety and risk, branding and signage, and general support services. Oversee and lead safe operations onsite, ensuring the highest safety & security standards are adhered to at all times and that work is always conducted in a safe manner. Drive world‑class event operations standards in all aspects of delivery. Proactively monitor, prosecute and report on event delivery, working with the Head of Event Operations to remedy issues before they occur.
- Monitoring & Evaluation: Concise updates to the Head of Event Operations, the leadership team and stakeholders in a timely manner about event delivery and status. Ensure project management tools are used consistently and effectively at all times. Produce clear and concise reports for senior management and client review in a timely manner, including but not limited to budget reports, resourcing and post‑event reporting.
SPECIAL SKILLS / EXPERIENCE / APTITUDES NEEDED:
- Excellent communicator and team player, comfortable talking to stakeholders at all levels.
- Passion for sport.
- Accountable and a problem solver.
- Promotes trust and respect within the team.
- Leads by example.
- Flexible and adaptable.
- Collaborative and a good contributor in a team setting.
- Innovative thinker.
- Proficient in Excel, Word and PowerPoint.
- Strong understanding of managing budgets and conducting RFPs & RFQs.
- Valid driver’s license.
- Proficiency in AutoCAD would be an advantage.
- Experience in a golf environment.
SALARY AND BENEFITS:
- Competitive salary.
- Annual discretionary company bonus – up to 8% (3% company & 5% individual).
- Pension scheme.
- Life assurance.
- Income protection.
- 25 days annual leave (plus public holidays), pro‑rated & birthday off.
- Increased annual leave with years of service.
- Employee assistance program (EAP).
- Private healthcare.
- Enhanced parental leave.
- Staff clothing.
- Working hours from 09:00 to 17:30 with an hour taken for lunch between 12:00 and 14:00.
Event Operations Director (Golf Experience Essential) employer: We Are 54
Contact Detail:
We Are 54 Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Event Operations Director (Golf Experience Essential)
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the golf and events industry. Attend events, join relevant groups on social media, and don’t be shy to reach out to folks on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! When you get the chance to meet potential employers or attend interviews, bring along a portfolio of your past event successes. Highlight your experience in managing golf events and how you've tackled challenges in the past. It’s all about making a memorable impression!
✨Tip Number 3
Be proactive! Don’t just wait for job postings to pop up. Reach out directly to companies you admire, like 54GROUP, and express your interest in working with them. A well-crafted email can go a long way in showing your enthusiasm and initiative.
✨Tip Number 4
Keep learning! Stay updated on the latest trends in event operations and golf. Consider taking online courses or attending workshops to boost your knowledge. This not only enhances your CV but also shows potential employers that you’re committed to growing in your field.
We think you need these skills to ace Event Operations Director (Golf Experience Essential)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Event Operations Director role. Highlight your experience in golf events and any relevant project management skills that align with what we're looking for.
Showcase Your Passion: Let your love for sports shine through! We want to see your enthusiasm for golf and event operations. Share any personal experiences or achievements that demonstrate your commitment to the industry.
Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, keep it straightforward. Use clear language and structure your thoughts logically. This will help us quickly understand your qualifications and fit for the role.
Apply Through Our Website: Don't forget to submit your application via our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the position. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at We Are 54
✨Know Your Golf Inside Out
Since this role is all about event operations in the golf industry, make sure you brush up on your golf knowledge. Familiarise yourself with recent trends, major tournaments, and key stakeholders in the golf world. This will not only show your passion but also your understanding of the environment you'll be working in.
✨Showcase Your Project Management Skills
Be ready to discuss specific examples of how you've successfully managed multiple events under tight deadlines. Prepare to share your strategies for budget management and how you've navigated challenges in past projects. This will demonstrate your capability to handle the responsibilities of the Event Operations Director.
✨Communicate Like a Pro
As an Event Operations Director, you'll need to liaise with various stakeholders. Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and confidently. Use examples from your past experiences to illustrate your communication skills and how you've built relationships with clients and partners.
✨Embrace Innovation
54GROUP values innovative thinking, so come prepared with ideas on how to improve event operations. Think about new technologies or processes that could enhance efficiency and attendee experience. Showing that you're forward-thinking will set you apart from other candidates.