Event Operations Director (commercial conferences)

About the role:

We are looking for a highly skilled and motivated Event Operations Director 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.

Climate Actions portfolio of projects and events include  The Sustainable Investment Forum in both Europe and North America, during Climate Week NYC, The Climate Innovation Forum during London Climate Action Week. In addition, during COP our activities include the Climate Action Innovation Zone which hosts our flagship forums, The Sustainable Finance Forum, The Agri-Food System Summit, The Hydrogen Transition Summit and the Sustainable Innovation Forum, which has grown over the last 13 years to become the largest side event at the annual UN COP meetings. These forums attracts many of the most respected names in climate change and sustainability space, including, UN Leaders, Environment Ministers and CEO’s of many of the worlds most sustainable brands.

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 specifically within the UK, is extremely well organised, has exceptional attention to detail, outstanding interpersonal skills and is driven by a passion for world class events. 

Main duties and responsibilities include but not limited to:

• 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 10 years of professional experience with at least 5 years in a senior 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, 50+ 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 annual leave plus bank holidays 
• 10 additional flexible remote working dates after probation
• Hybrid working arrangement between our WeWork offices in Victoria and remote with three days working in our office weekly 
• Generous and achievable bonus scheme 
• Ethical pension plan with the Peoples Pension 
• WeWork wellbeing benefits such as yoga sessions and meditation 
• Barista, community bar, table tennis, showers, and ability to bring your pet to work
• Benenden Health Scheme 
• Opportunity to work with globally recognised sustainability and climate leaders 
• Join a rapidly growing, mission-led company, making a positive impact on our planet