Event & Exhibition Operations Manager

Job Description : Event & Exhibition Operations Manager

Position : Operations Manager – Events & Exhibitions

Department : Operations / Events

Reports to : Head – Operations / Director – Events

Location : (Chennai)

Employment Type : Full-time

Role Overview

The Event & Exhibition Operations Manager will be responsible for the planning, execution, and delivery of corporate events, exhibitions, and brand activations . The role requires strong operational expertise, vendor management, and hands-on supervision to ensure projects are executed on time, within budget, and at the highest quality standards.

Key Responsibilities

Planning & Execution

Develop detailed event & exhibition project plans, checklists, and timelines.

Lead operational planning for large-scale events, trade shows, and exhibitions.

Coordinate venue layouts, stall fabrication, stage setups, branding, AV, and logistics.

Ensure compliance with safety, legal, and regulatory requirements.

Vendor & Logistics Management

Source, negotiate, and finalize vendors (fabrication, AV, décor, logistics, manpower, etc.).

Supervise fabrication houses for stall construction, signage, and installation.

Oversee logistics — transport, storage, materials, and manpower allocation.

On-Site Operations

Lead the setup and dismantling process of exhibitions and events.

Manage show-day operations — registration, exhibitor support, crew management.

Act as the single point of contact for vendors, clients, and stakeholders on-ground.

Troubleshoot operational challenges and ensure seamless execution.

Financial & Reporting

Prepare and monitor project budgets and cost sheets.

Ensure timely vendor payments and cost efficiency.

Deliver post-event reports with learnings and improvements.

Team & Client Coordination

Collaborate with client servicing, creative, and production teams.

Maintain clear communication with clients regarding operations and timelines.

Guide and mentor junior operations executives and on-ground staff.

Key Skills & Competencies

Strong knowledge of exhibition operations, stall fabrication, and event logistics .

Excellent planning, organizational, and multitasking skills.

Vendor management & negotiation expertise.

Strong leadership with ability to manage large on-ground teams.

Problem-solving mindset with quick decision-making ability.

Proficiency in MS Office, AutoCAD / SketchUp knowledge is an advantage.

Qualifications & Experience

Graduate in Event Management, Operations, Hospitality, or related field.

5–8 years of proven experience in event & exhibition operations.

Hands-on experience in corporate exhibitions, trade shows, conferences, and large-scale events .

Flexible to travel and work irregular hours as per event schedules.

KPIs (Key Performance Indicators)

Timely and smooth delivery of exhibitions & events.

Cost optimization without compromising quality.

Client satisfaction and repeat business.

Efficiency of vendor and crew management.

Zero operational lapses or escalations.