Exhibition Operations Manager

About the Company

Informa Markets, a division within Informa, creates global platforms for industries to trade, innovate and grow. We organise over 450 large-scale branded and transaction-led B2B events across specialist markets, and provide data, digital content and year-round online platforms for companies and buyers.

About the Role

This role is based in our 428 Ari Hills Building office. The Operations Manager is responsible for overseeing the planning, logistics and execution of exhibitions, ensuring smooth operations and high-quality event delivery. The role requires strategic planning, leadership and collaboration with internal teams, vendors and clients to manage timelines, budgets and service delivery.

Responsibilities

• Plan and execute end-to-end exhibition operations, including setup and teardown, venue and onsite management.
• Coordinate with internal teams to ensure smooth delivery and resolve onsite issues.
• Source, negotiate with and manage vendors and suppliers (construction, utilities, logistics, AV, security, cleaning, etc.), ensuring timely delivery, cost control and quality/compliance.
• Manage event budgets, monitor expenses, and work with finance on reporting and post-event cost analysis.
• Serve as main client contact throughout planning and execution to ensure client satisfaction and build long-term relationships.
• Ensure compliance with health, safety and sustainability standards; prepare risk assessments, contingency plans and required reports.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree.
• 5+ years experience in operations management, event planning or a similar role, preferably in exhibitions or trade shows.
• Strong project management skills and ability to manage multiple events simultaneously.
• Excellent organisational and communication skills; strong negotiation and vendor management skills.
• Proficient in event management software and MS Office Suite (Excel).
• Proficiency in budget management and financial analysis; knowledge of health, safety and legal requirements for exhibitions.

Benefits

• Welcoming culture with in-person and online social events, diversity and inclusion networks.
• Volunteer days (up to four per year) with charity match funding.
• Career development including bespoke training, mentoring and access to LinkedIn Learning; internal mobility encouraged.
• Annual leave plus a birthday leave day; flexible personal benefits and company-funded private medical cover.
• ShareMatch scheme with free matching shares; wellbeing support including EAP and mental health first aiders; global recognition programmes.

Additional Information

• Role requires in-person work in the office five days a week.
• Reasonable adjustments for the hiring process and role can be requested via the Talent Acquisition Partner; Informa is an Equal Opportunities Employer.