Senior Exhibition Operations Manager - Freelance
Senior Exhibition Operations Manager - Freelance

Senior Exhibition Operations Manager - Freelance

London Freelance No home office possible
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WorldwideEvents

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead the planning and delivery of a major exhibition, ensuring smooth operations and compliance.
  • Company: Worldwide Events creates joyful business-to-business trade events in stunning global locations.
  • Benefits: Enjoy hybrid work, expand your network, and gain international experience in a dynamic team.
  • Other info: Diversity is key to our culture; we welcome all applicants regardless of background.
  • Why this job: Join a passionate team and shape exceptional events while working with industry leaders.
  • Qualifications: 7+ years in exhibitions, strong organisational skills, and experience with large-scale events required.

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Worldwide Events Chancery Lane, City of London

Reporting to: Event Director

Start Date: ASAP / Immediate

Hybrid (minimum of 3 days in our London Office)

Role Type: Contractor, Project-based (Fixed Term, 2-3 months)

Salary £300-£400 per day dependant on experience

Are you an experienced professional in the exhibitions sector, ready to take on a dynamic consulting role? We have an opportunity for an Exhibition Consultant to join the Event Management team for Worldwide Events, the company behind m&i, Private Luxury Events, TFest and Amour.

Our story Worldwide Events specialises in business-to-business trade events, bringing together key players in the travel and events industry. We are the pioneers in making business joyful and connecting industry professionals in the perfect environment to encourage business. The company is an established front-runner of the Meeting & Incentive, Luxury, and Romantic Travel sectors with events hosted in destinations such as Dubai, Ibiza, Istanbul, Seville, Oslo, The Bahamas, Marrakesh, and Mexico.

The Role We are currently looking for an organised and experienced Senior Exhibition Operations Manager to support the Event Management Team in the planning and delivery of M&I Expo Abu Dhabi (13-17 April 2026) our newly launched exhibition for the global MICE industry. This is a project-based planning role focused on setting up the operational infrastructure of the event. You will be responsible for creating the full suite of documentation, outlining key processes, and establishing the exhibitor journey from sales through to stand delivery. You will develop essential materials such as the Exhibitor Manual and technical guidelines, ensuring all venue regulations, health and safety requirements, and logistical considerations are fully addressed. By reviewing floorplans and advising on compliance, you will help safeguard a smooth and safe event setup. Additionally, you will design and implement a structured client communication process that supports exhibitors through their onboarding, coordinating closely with production teams and internal stakeholders. Your work will form the backbone of the event's operational framework, enabling a seamless handover to the delivery team who will take the event forward.

Key responsibilities:

  • Exhibitor Documentation & Compliance: Lead the development of all key exhibitor documentation, including a comprehensive Exhibitor Manual, Technical Guidelines, and other essential materials. Ensure all content aligns with venue regulations, health & safety standards, and industry best practices.
  • Collate and produce supporting documents that cover: Booth design specifications and technical hall data, Submission timelines for stand contractors and approvals, Health & safety requirements, including checklists and audit guidance, Build-up and breakdown logistics, including access badges and vehicle scheduling, Shipping and delivery instructions for build and show days, Security guidelines to ensure stand and aisle safety.
  • Floorplan Consultancy: Review and assess the proposed floorplan for compliance with venue and local H&S regulations. Flag any design or layout risks and propose amendments where necessary.
  • Client Liaison & Onboarding Process: Design and implement a clear communication process for confirmed exhibitors, guiding them through either turnkey (shell scheme) or space-only stand arrangements. Act as the primary liaison between confirmed exhibitors and the production company during the initial planning phase. Lead the early-stage production onboarding for the first wave of confirmed exhibitors, ensuring timely information exchange and documentation submission. Create internal documentation to support the client liaison process and ensure it can be seamlessly continued by the incoming team post-handover.

About you

To be considered for this role, you will need:

  • 7+ years of experience in the exhibitions sector, ideally in B2B environments
  • Have experience running 1000+ person exhibitions that involve mixtures of shell scheme and space only builds
  • Proven track record managing exhibitor manuals, stand guidelines, and venue logistics.
  • Strong understanding of end-to-end exhibition planning, particularly during the pre-event operational phase.
  • Experienced in liaising with clients and production companies throughout the stand creation process
  • Excellent organisational, with strong time management and attention to detail.
  • Comfortable working independently on a short-term project with set deliverables
  • Experience with CAD software or other floorplan design tools (desirable)
  • Experience working internationally with global clients and venues (desirable)

Why Work With Us

We are a dynamic, fast-paced company offering the opportunity to grow your skills and experience in the events industry. As a contractor with Worldwide Events, you will:

  • Be part of a passionate team dedicated to creating exceptional events.
  • Expand your professional network by working with industry leaders and international clients.
  • Gain valuable international experience by participating in events hosted in exciting global destinations.

Our Commitment to Diversity

Our approach to diversity is simple - we embrace everyone. We are committed to welcoming all individuals, regardless of gender identity, orientation, expression, age, race, physical or mental ability, ethnicity, or perspective. Our diversity fuels our innovation, brings diversity of thought, and connects us closer to our clients and the communities we serve.

All applicants must have the right to work in the United Kingdom. Thank you for your interest in this opportunity. We look forward to receiving your application. We encourage applications even if you don't meet every qualification - passion and personality count! Interviews will be conducted on a rolling basis, so we encourage you to apply as soon as possible.

Our Company Website: www.wwideevents.com

Our Events Portfolio: www.amourforums.com, www.mi-forums.com, www.privateluxuryevents.com, www.travel-fest.com

Senior Exhibition Operations Manager - Freelance employer: WorldwideEvents

Worldwide Events is an exceptional employer that fosters a vibrant and inclusive work culture, perfect for those looking to thrive in the dynamic events industry. As a contractor, you will have the opportunity to collaborate with passionate professionals, expand your network with industry leaders, and gain invaluable international experience while working on prestigious exhibitions in exciting global locations. With a commitment to diversity and personal growth, Worldwide Events ensures that every team member feels valued and empowered to contribute meaningfully.
WorldwideEvents

Contact Detail:

WorldwideEvents Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Senior Exhibition Operations Manager - Freelance

✨Tip Number 1

Network with industry professionals who have experience in the exhibitions sector. Attend relevant events or webinars to connect with potential colleagues and clients, as personal recommendations can significantly boost your chances of landing this role.

✨Tip Number 2

Familiarise yourself with the latest trends and technologies in exhibition management. Being knowledgeable about CAD software and floorplan design tools will not only enhance your application but also demonstrate your commitment to staying current in the field.

✨Tip Number 3

Prepare to discuss your previous experiences managing large-scale exhibitions. Be ready to share specific examples of how you handled compliance, logistics, and client communication, as these are crucial aspects of the Senior Exhibition Operations Manager role.

✨Tip Number 4

Research Worldwide Events and their portfolio of events. Understanding their mission and values will help you tailor your approach during interviews and show that you're genuinely interested in contributing to their success.

We think you need these skills to ace Senior Exhibition Operations Manager - Freelance

Exhibition Planning
Project Management
Client Liaison
Documentation Development
Health and Safety Compliance
Logistics Coordination
Attention to Detail
Time Management
Floorplan Design
Communication Skills
Problem-Solving Skills
Organisational Skills
Experience with CAD Software
International Client Management

Some tips for your application 🫡

Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your relevant experience in the exhibitions sector, particularly focusing on your roles in B2B environments and managing large-scale events. Use specific examples to demonstrate your expertise.

Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for the role and the company. Mention your experience with exhibitor documentation and compliance, as well as your ability to liaise effectively with clients and production teams.

Highlight Key Achievements: In your application, emphasise any significant achievements in your previous roles, such as successful event management or improvements in operational processes. Quantify your successes where possible to make a stronger impact.

Showcase Your Organisational Skills: Given the importance of organisation in this role, provide examples of how you have successfully managed multiple tasks or projects simultaneously. This will demonstrate your ability to handle the demands of a short-term project.

How to prepare for a job interview at WorldwideEvents

✨Showcase Your Experience

Make sure to highlight your 7+ years of experience in the exhibitions sector. Be prepared to discuss specific examples of large-scale events you've managed, particularly those involving both shell scheme and space-only builds.

✨Demonstrate Organisational Skills

Given the role's focus on documentation and compliance, emphasise your organisational abilities. Share how you manage timelines, documentation, and communication processes effectively, especially during the pre-event operational phase.

✨Prepare for Client Liaison Scenarios

Since client communication is key, think of scenarios where you've successfully liaised with clients and production teams. Be ready to explain how you ensured a smooth onboarding process for exhibitors.

✨Familiarise Yourself with Venue Regulations

Research common venue regulations and health & safety standards relevant to exhibitions. Being knowledgeable about these will show your commitment to compliance and safety, which is crucial for this role.

Senior Exhibition Operations Manager - Freelance
WorldwideEvents
Location: London
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