Smaller agencies may not have an Operations Director role. The duties may be covered by the Head of Events or Managing Director. However, for larger agencies, where there are multiple project/account teams, an Operations Director is seen as a critical role.

The Operations Director’s role is to ensure that the department has sufficient resources, skills and effective processes to provide exceptional service to clients. Although it can be hands-on at times, which means the Operations Director will have come through the ranks, this is a strategic role and is suitable for people whose natural focus is on continual improvement and the development of self and others. The Operations Director is responsible for the overall departmental budget and will also have responsibility to ensure compliance with all legislation and licensing requirements.

Typical duties of the Operations Director will include: -
  • Development, implementation and review of all departmental procedures
  • Management of any change programmes
  • Recruitment, training and development staff
  • Liaison with Account Directors and Finance to maximise profitability
  • Management reporting
  • ATOL (Air Travel Organisers Licence) reporting
  • GDPR (General Data Protection Regulations) auditing
  • Departmental work scheduling and problem solving
  • Supplier review and contracting
Skills, Experience and Personality Needed
  • The ability to work under pressure – the buck stops here! 
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills are needed for this role as you’ll be liaising with a variety of different people at all levels
  • Energy, enthusiasm, and a passion for events
  • Outgoing and confident and with a can-do attitude
  • An eye for detail
  • Experience leading a range of events across the world
  • Excellent leadership skills with experience of managing multiple teams
  • Creative approach to problem solving
  • Good IT skills are essential as you’ll most likely be working across Microsoft Word, Excel, Publisher, and Access and will need a solid understanding of Apps and Virtual Platforms
Benefits and Considerations
  • This is a full-time role and one which at times will require longer working hours
  • It can be very stressful and there are lots of big personalities in the industry
  • Although it may be necessary to support with live events on the odd occasion, this is not the norm with this role and so it’s good for those who are no longer able to travel
  • It’s a young and vibrant industry that’s generally fun and with lots of internal industry events and networking. So, a great place to meet new and like minded people
  • Agencies are often invited on familiarisation visits across the world and generally these are shared (as appropriate) amongst the team