Senior Event Operations Manager – Harlequins

• Newly created role reporting to the Head of Operations
• Strong change agenda, driving strategic vision through to delivery
• Ability to establish robust planning and operating procedures
• Join one of the most iconic brands in world rugby

Harlequins is one of the oldest and most famous rugby clubs in the world. Founded in 1866, the Club has, throughout its vibrant history, been a proud innovator in the game both nationally and globally. The Club is a founder member of the RFU and is as famous for its quartered shirt, as for its expansive style of play.

Harlequins is currently ranked amongst the best Premiership and Premier 15s rugby clubs in this country and Europe. The Club is a founding member of the RFU and boasts more presidents than any other club as well as a healthy dose of international players across both its championship winning Men’s and Women’s Teams.  The Club regularly attracts over 90% capacity attendances to its matches at the Stoop, whilst in Dec staging ‘Big Game’ at Twickenham stadium. Big Game has become an annual fixture in the gap between Christmas and New Year, regularly attracting sell out 80k crowds of largely locally based Harlequin’s supporters, their friends and families and big event fans. The match is not only the biggest annual match of club rugby in the world but is also frequently the biggest festive sporting event in the country.

Reporting to the Head of Operations, the Senior Event Operations Manager will oversee the successful end to end planning, delivery, and management of all events, ensuring that operational excellence is achieved. As a key role within the organisation, you will be an exceptional collaborator and communicator, with the ability to align internal and external stakeholders ensuring a positive experience for all, whilst consistently achieving results. The candidate will drive change, through an innovative style, introducing new planning and delivery procedures to transform teams and operations.

The successful candidate will be an exceptional leader, with the ability to take the strategic vision into operational delivery. With an ability to seamlessly manage multiple stakeholder groups and competing priorities, you will demonstrate experience in managing and delivering events at either arenas and/ or stadiums. You will have a proven ability to lead teams in a complex environment and a strong understanding of the full range of event planning including spectator safety management, sports presentation and activations, health and safety, broadcast requirements, and be able to translate those plans into operational delivery leading the delivery on event days. Excellent written and communication skills and a passion for delivery exceptional event experiences essential.