Event Operations Manager (International Conferences)

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About Climate Action:Climate Action is a mission-led company that has been working at the intersection of climate change policy, innovation, and sustainable finance since 2007. Our mission is to accelerate the transition to a global green economy to speed the achievement of the UN Global Goals and the Paris Climate Agreement.

Climate Action's digital and physical events create tangible partnerships between business, government, policy makers, and investors to accelerate the global transition to net zero. www.climateaction.org
About the role:

We are looking for a highly skilled and motivated Event Operations Manager to lead our operations team and scale our event operations. This role is pivotal in planning and executing both live and digital events. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in managing large-scale, complex event builds, with a passion for delivering world-class events that leave a lasting impact.

We are seeking an individual who strives to deliver an experience, not just an event. The ideal candidate will hold large-scale and complex event build experience within the UK and worldwide. You'll be well organised with exceptional attention to detail, outstanding interpersonal skills, and driven by a passion for world-class events.

Duties & Responsibilities:
Event Operations Planning & Strategy

• Develop and execute comprehensive event operations plans aligning with organisational goals.
• Collaborate with clients to understand and meet their event expectations operationally.
• Set timelines and milestones for event operations preparation and execution.

Budget Management

• Create and oversee event budgets, ensuring cost-effectiveness.
• Monitor expenses, adjusting as necessary to remain within budget.

Operations Team Management

• Recruit, train, and manage a small, highly effective operations team, plus appropriate freelance consultants and suppliers.

Venue & Vendor Coordination

• Identify and secure suitable venues, negotiating contracts and agreements.
• Manage relationships with vendors, suppliers, and service providers to ensure timely delivery.

Logistics & Operations

• Oversee all logistical facets including transportation, accommodation, and catering.
• Ensure functionality of event infrastructure like audiovisual equipment and staging.
• Develop contingency plans to address potential issues.

Regulatory Compliance & Risk Management

• Ensure compliance with all relevant regulations, permits, and licenses.
• Conduct risk assessments and implement safety protocols.
• Coordinate security measures and emergency response plans.

Attendee Experience

• Design strategies to enhance attendee satisfaction.
• Monitor and address attendee feedback promptly.
• Maintain high standards of customer service throughout events.

Technology Integration:

• Utilize event management software and digital tools to streamline operations.
• Implement solutions such as event apps, registration systems, and virtual platforms.

Post-Event Evaluation:

• Conduct evaluations to assess performance against objectives.
• Gather feedback to identify areas for improvement.
• Prepare detailed reports on event outcomes and financial performance.

Sustainability & Environmental Responsibility:

• Implement sustainable practices to minimize environmental impact.
• Promote green initiatives and ensure compliance with sustainability standards.

Requirements

• Minimum of 5 years of professional experience in an event operations role within a commercial conference or exhibition organizer.
• Extensive experience in delivering large-scale events, including complex outdoor builds in the UK.
• Proven track record in managing conferences and exhibitions with over 1,000 attendees, 25+ exhibitors, and multiple conference tracks.
• Strong background in procurement, supplier contract negotiations, and budget management.
• Expertise in event design, floorplans, and maximizing attendee experience.
• Excellent understanding of outdoor events infrastructure including power, waste, and temporary structures.
• Familiarity with health & safety compliances; IOSH/NEBOSH certification preferred.
• Passion for climate change and sustainability, aiming to reduce carbon footprints through event planning.
• Strong leadership abilities with a knack for leading large onsite teams.
• Outstanding communication and interpersonal skills.
• Flexible and solution-driven approach to challenges.
• Ability to work under pressure and make sound decisions in a fast-paced environment.
• Willingness to travel without restrictions.

Benefits

What we offer:

• 23 days of annual leave and UK bank holidays.
• A paid day off for your birthday.
• 10 flexible remote working dates (post-probation period).
• We operate a hybrid working model, with in-office attendance required on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays at our WeWork office in Victoria (SW1). Standard office hours are from 8:30 am to 5:30 pm.
• Generous and achievable bonus scheme.
• Ethical pension plan with the People's Pension.
• Wellbeing perks through WeWork, including yoga, meditation, and more.
• Barista, community bar, table tennis, showers, and the ability to bring your pet to work.
• Private healthcare with Benenden Health.
• Collaborate with global sustainability and climate leaders, driving real change.
• Join a fast-growing, mission-led company, making a positive impact on our planet.