The Opportunity:

We are seeking a dynamic and highly organised Operations Manager to join our Defence & Security Operations team. This is an exciting opportunity to lead the delivery of UDT while also supporting DSEI UK. The role requires a proactive individual who thrives in a fast-paced environment and can confidently manage multiple priorities.

Based in the UK, the role will be primarily flexi-office based, with some travel required, including significant onsite presence during live events. The successful candidate must be adaptable and confident operating in high-pressure event environments, ensuring seamless execution and operational excellence across both markets.

We are looking for an individual ready to take the next step into an Operations Manager role, with at least three years’ experience in the exhibitions industry.

The Candidate:

We are looking for an exceptionally organised and proactive individual who can champion the fulfilment of a broad range of assigned duties. The successful candidate will have a methodical approach, have high attention to detail and be able to simultaneously manage a number of tasks. The role will mainly be flexi-office based however will require onsite work at live events. Here’s who we are looking for:

You enjoy being organised and anticipating people’s needs
You love being creative; you dream big, adopt new ways of working and get a thrill from being innovative
You relish facing new challenges: you react, adapt and welcome change
You are obsessed with positive customer experiences and outcomes.
You want to develop your skillset by being exposed to a broad range of experiences and people
You like to challenge assumptions and make decisions based on customer insight

Key Responsibilities:

Support the end-to-end operational delivery of a major launch event in Germany.
Manage key elements of the event operations budget, including forecasting, cost tracking, and reporting to the Head of Operations.
Negotiate supplier and contractor costs to ensure maximum value and cost efficiency.
Work effectively within defined budget parameters and adapt to changing financial requirements.
Collaborate closely with the Head of Operations, venue partners, exhibitors, and internal teams to support all build and breakdown activities in line with Health & Safety regulations and Clarion EMEA standards.
Manage the development of risk assessments and ongoing health & safety planning.
Manage the maintenance of accurate and compliant health & safety documentation for the event, producing a complete and verified Health & Safety file.
Attend relevant health & safety training sessions and engage proactively with internal training programmes.
Liaise with production, marketing, sales, and finance teams to ensure alignment across all event elements.
Bring creative, solution-focused thinking to enhance event delivery and contribute innovative ideas.
Produce and communicate accurate technical information for exhibitors, including the creation of an exhibitor manual/zone.
Ensure full delivery and fulfilment of exhibitor packages.
Develop detailed signage schedules and oversee implementation.
Ensure the show build meets all plans, specifications, and quality expectations working closely with contractors.
Manage contractors and suppliers before, during, and after the event to ensure seamless delivery.
Assist with the creation and coordination of build, delivery, and breakdown schedules.
Respond effectively to exhibitor and contractor needs both in the office and onsite—maintaining composure in high-pressure environments.
Oversee the ordering and management of all onsite furniture and equipment.
Maintain organised records, manage meeting schedules, take minutes, and handle follow-up communications.
Manage event staffing levels to ensure adequate coverage throughout the exhibition.
Support post-event evaluation and contribute to continuous improvement.
Participate in regular internal meetings as well as external client discussions.
Contribute to the company’s Operations Group as an active member.
Handle customer data confidently and in compliance with GDPR and other data privacy requirements.
Be available to travel internationally as required..

Knowledge, Skills & Behaviours:

Experience in the conference and exhibition industry or with a background in live events.
Proven Health and Safety experience.
Organised and methodical with the ability to manage multiple tasks effectively.
Strong attention to detail.
Customer focussed mindset.
Confident communicator – an ability to communicate verbally and/or in writing with a wide range of personalities and levels of seniority.
Experience managing budget tracking or cost control.
Willingness to travel internationally as required.
Self-motivated, enthusiastic, and proactive approach.
Able to meet deadlines and respond to challenges in a fast-paced environment.
Computer literate: proficient, versed, and working knowledge of various programmes and systems i.e. MS Office, Outlook. Experience with other web-based platforms like Salesforce, Pardot or Workday would be an advantage

About Clarion Events

Clarion Events is one of the world’s leading event organisers, producing and delivering innovative and market-leading events since 1947. ()

Clarion Events embrace diversity and equal opportunities in all that we do. We are committed to building a team that represents a variety of backgrounds, perspectives, and skills. The more inclusive we...

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Operations Manager - Defence