Vacancy Detail

Senior Operations Manager

Are you an experienced exhibition operations professional who thrives on bringing large-scale events to life.

 

We're partnering with a highly regarded events and media organisation to recruit a Senior Operations Manager to oversee the delivery of an established portfolio of flagship B2B exhibitions and conferences within the built environment sector.

 

This is an opportunity to take a leading role in the operational success of some of the UK's most recognised industry events. You'll have the autonomy to influence how events are delivered, work alongside senior stakeholders across the business, and play a pivotal role in shaping the attendee and exhibitor experience.

 

If you enjoy managing complex projects, leading teams, and being at the heart of live events from concept through to completion, we'd love to hear from you.

 

The Opportunity

 

As Senior Operations Manager, you'll be responsible for the end-to-end operational delivery of multiple exhibitions and conferences, ensuring every event is executed seamlessly, safely, and to the highest possible standard.

 

Working cross-functionally with commercial, marketing, content and creative teams, you'll oversee every operational detail, balancing exceptional customer experience with commercial performance and operational efficiency.

 

This is a hands-on leadership role suited to someone who enjoys ownership, problem-solving, and the fast pace of live events.

 

What You'll Be Doing

 

Event Delivery & Project Management

 

• Lead the operational planning and execution of a portfolio of large-scale exhibitions and conferences.
• Take ownership of the full event lifecycle, from initial planning through to onsite delivery and post-event review.
• Oversee floorplans, registration processes, exhibitor services, feature areas, signage, logistics, AV requirements, and venue services.
• Act as the senior operational lead during build-up, live event days, and breakdown periods.
• Identify opportunities to enhance processes, improve efficiency, and elevate event delivery standards.

 

Supplier & Budget Management

 

• Manage operational budgets and ensure events are delivered within agreed financial parameters.
• Source, negotiate, and manage relationships with external suppliers, contractors, and service providers.
• Monitor supplier performance and drive value without compromising quality.
• Produce accurate forecasts and maintain robust cost control throughout the planning process.

 

Exhibitor & Visitor Experience

 

• Ensure exhibitors receive an outstanding experience from initial onboarding through to event completion.
• Oversee exhibitor communications, operational manuals, deadlines, and documentation.
• Support initiatives designed to improve visitor engagement and overall satisfaction.
• Resolve operational issues quickly and professionally, maintaining excellent stakeholder relationships.

 

Leadership & Stakeholder Management

 

• Work collaboratively with internal teams including Sales, Marketing, Content, Design, and Finance to deliver successful events.
• Provide guidance, coaching, and leadership to junior members of the operations team.
• Build trusted relationships with venues, suppliers, contractors, and key stakeholders.
• Encourage a culture of continuous improvement and operational excellence.

 

Health, Safety & Compliance

 

• Lead all aspects of health and safety across the event portfolio.
• Ensure compliance with venue regulations, company policies, and industry best practice.
• Manage risk assessments, contractor documentation, and safety procedures.
• Maintain a proactive approach to identifying and mitigating operational risk.

 

About You

 

You'll be an organised and commercially aware events professional with a passion for delivering exceptional experiences.

 

You'll ideally bring:

 

• At least five years' experience delivering large-scale exhibitions, conferences, or B2B events.
• Proven operational management experience across multiple projects.
• Strong budget ownership and supplier management capability.
• Excellent project management and organisational skills.
• A thorough understanding of exhibition operations and live event logistics.
• Experience managing contractors, venues, and third-party suppliers.
• Strong communication skills with the confidence to engage stakeholders at all levels.
• A calm and solutions-focused approach under pressure.
• Previous experience leading or mentoring team members.

 

Desirable Experience

 

While not essential, the following would be advantageous:

 

• Experience within construction, built environment, or trade exhibition sectors.
• IOSH Managing Safely qualification.
• AutoCAD experience.
• NEBOSH qualification.
• Experience implementing new systems, processes, or event technologies.

 

What's on Offer?

 

• Salary of up to £55,000. + Bonus
• The opportunity to lead operations for a portfolio of market-leading events.
• A visible and influential role within an ambitious, growing business.
• Genuine ownership and autonomy.
• Exposure to senior leadership and strategic decision-making.
• The chance to shape customer experience and operational best practice.
• Long-term career development and progression opportunities.
• The excitement and variety that comes with delivering high-profile live events.

 

If you're passionate about creating outstanding event experiences and want to join a business where your expertise will have a real impact, we'd love to hear from you.

 

 

Location: Loughton | Salary: £55000 per year | Job type: Permanent | Posted: 14/06/2026