Operations Director.

ESMOS Recruitment is currently looking for an experienced Operations Director to oversee the operational planning and delivery of events and exhibitions.

The successful candidate will be responsible for ensuring smooth and effective operations throughout the event lifecycle, working closely with internal teams, venues, suppliers and contractors to deliver events safely, efficiently, on time and within budget.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the operational planning and delivery of events and exhibitions.
• Develop and manage event timelines, operational plans and schedules.
• Oversee event logistics, venue requirements, build and breakdown activities and on-site operations.
• Manage operational budgets, forecasts and costs.
• Source, appoint and manage suppliers, contractors and other external partners.
• Negotiate quotations and contracts to ensure quality and cost-effective delivery.
• Work closely with internal teams and external stakeholders throughout the event lifecycle.
• Ensure operational requirements and deadlines are effectively communicated and achieved.
• Oversee event documentation, operational schedules, manuals and briefing materials.
• Ensure compliance with relevant health, safety and venue requirements.
• Identify operational risks and implement appropriate solutions and contingency plans.
• Lead and support operational teams, including temporary and on-site staff.
• Maintain strong working relationships with venues, suppliers and contractors.
• Provide operational updates to key stakeholders as required.
• Resolve operational issues effectively during planning and on-site delivery.
• Conduct post-event reviews and identify opportunities to improve processes, efficiency and cost effectiveness.
• Maintain high standards of operational delivery across all events.

Experience & Requirements

• Strong experience in event, exhibition or trade show operations.
• Previous experience in a senior operations or leadership role.
• Proven experience managing events from planning through to on-site delivery.
• Strong project management and organisational skills.
• Experience managing budgets, suppliers and contractors.
• Good understanding of event health and safety requirements.
• Excellent communication, negotiation and stakeholder management skills.
• Strong leadership and team management capabilities.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong attention to detail and a solutions-focused approach.
• Confident working independently and taking ownership of operational decisions.
• Experience with event or project management software is advantageous.
• Relevant health and safety qualifications are desirable.
• Flexibility to travel and work outside standard office hours when required for events.