Operations Manager (AV/event technology)

Contact person for this position:  Ronel Bakker

ronel@joblinkplacement.co.za

Website: www.joblinkplacement.co.za

Job overview

My client, a leading event technical and scenic production company, is looking for a dynamic and hands on Operations Manager.  Their Johannesburg branch is entering a growth phase and requires a strong operational leader to drive efficiency and profitability.

The Operations Manager is the operational engine and owns day-to-day execution, process optimisation, cost control, and team accountability.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide the right level of oversight, structure, and accountability to unlock significant margin improvement through operational excellence. Success metrics will be based on measurable operational efficiencies. Key levers: disciplined project planning & follow-through, cost-effective warehouse/gear/logistics management, inventory control, resource allocation, process implementation, and team accountability.

Leadership Style & Approach

• Supportive and hands-on – willing to roll up sleeves initially to diagnose issues, set up processes, and support the team.
• Focuses on building structure, accountability, and ownership so the existing team can perform at a higher level.
• Strong performance-management mindset with the ability to drive results through coaching, clear expectations, and follow-up.
• Lead a team of between 12 and 15 members.

Requirements, knowledge and skills

• 5–7+ years in an operations or managerial role within the AV/event technology, live production, technical hire, or similar project-based industry.
• Demonstrated success driving operational efficiencies that deliver clear margin improvement in a high-volume, fast-paced environment.
• Hands-on experience managing warehouse, inventory, logistics, scheduling, and resource allocation in a project-oriented business
• Proven ability to implement processes, enforce accountability, and drive follow-through across an existing team without micromanaging.
• Experience leading and developing teams that include project managers, technical staff, warehouse, scenic, and admin/support roles (plus heavy freelance/contractor management).
• Excellent organisational, analytical, and problem-solving skills with a strong focus on cost control and process optimisation.
• Proficiency in operational reporting and data-driven decision making.
• Familiarity with AV production elements (audio, video, lighting, staging) is preferable.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills; able to collaborate effectively with the General Manager and Cape Town/head-office team.
• High computer literacy and ability to quickly adopt new systems.

Education

• Relevant tertiary qualification in Operations Management, Event Management, Business Management, or related field

Salary

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