Project Manager – Airshow Event

About the role

The Royal International Air Tattoo is seeking a Project Manager on a fixed‑term contract to support the planning and delivery of RIAT 26, the world’s greatest airshow. You will work closely with the Ground Operations team to ensure the event runs safely, on time, and within budget.

Key responsibilities

• Work alongside the Ground Operations team to deliver the airshow from concept through derig and post‑event review.
• Review detailed project plans, timelines and critical paths to ensure milestones are met.
• Control project budgets, forecasts and cost control, securing approvals and managing on‑site adjustments.
• Brief and manage contractors and suppliers, coordinating internal teams and external stakeholders.
• Ensure all Health & Safety requirements are met, including RAMS, risk assessments and compliance.
• Oversee site planning, layouts, build schedules and logistics.
• Identify project risks and issues, implementing mitigation and contingency plans.
• Act as the main point of contact for project delivery and operational decision‑making.
• Monitor progress on site, resolve problems quickly and maintain clear communication with senior management.
• Manage change control and late‑stage amendments without compromising safety or delivery.
• Conduct post‑event reviews, capturing lessons learned and improvement actions.

Required profile

• Proven experience in event project management, preferably within large‑scale aviation or airshow environments.
• IOSH‑level health and safety training (NEBOSH National Diploma desirable).
• Confident user of Microsoft applications, especially MS Project, Word and Outlook.
• Ability to work weekends (Saturday/Sunday before the event and the full event weekend).

Required skills

• Microsoft Project
• Microsoft Word
• Microsoft Outlook
• IOSH health and safety knowledge

What we offer

• Salary of £35,000 per annum (pro rata).
• Two complimentary tickets to RIAT and a 50% staff discount on up to six additional tickets.
• Opportunity to be part of a world‑famous airshow team.