Senior Operations Manager – Live Events

About the role

Reed is looking for an experienced Senior Operations Manager to lead the planning and delivery of live events across London and other UK locations. You will be responsible for ensuring safe, efficient crowd and traffic management from concept to on‑site execution.

Key responsibilities

• Lead the Operations Department, mentoring direct reports and event staff.
• Oversee end‑to‑end delivery of live events, ensuring projects are planned, managed and executed successfully.
• Develop operational plans covering logistics, crowd management, traffic and pedestrian flow.
• Manage on‑site operations, briefing teams and supporting delivery.
• Build relationships with clients, local authorities, stakeholders and partners.
• Handle client enquiries, prepare quotations and manage assigned accounts.
• Produce operational documentation, risk assessments, traffic management and site plans.
• Ensure compliance with health and safety legislation and industry best practice.
• Monitor budgets, resources and staffing to meet performance targets.

Required profile

• Proven senior operational experience in the live‑events industry.
• Strong background in crowd, safety and traffic management.
• Experience leading large, mixed teams of permanent and temporary staff.
• Demonstrated ability to deliver complex events from planning through execution.
• Excellent stakeholder and client management skills.
• Full UK driving licence and flexible availability for evenings, weekends and travel.

Required skills

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office.

What we offer

• Competitive salary of £50,000‑£60,000 per year, dependent on experience.
• Opportunity to lead high‑profile live events in a dynamic environment.
• Supportive team culture with professional development prospects.