Operations Manager

Full-time, 12-month Contract position
- (South Wharf CBD location) with flexible work options available
- Employer of Choice winner four years in a row

Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre (MCEC) is the home of unconventional. At MCEC we do things a little differently. We bring fresh ideas and imagination to every event. We happily turn concepts on their head to make each experience momentous.

We welcome events of all shapes and sizes, from board meetings and small celebrations through to conventions, gala dinners, exhibitions, and concerts. Our doors are open for events and moments that connect us - in person, virtual or hybrid, and everything in between.

Our city is our inspiration, located in the vibrant South Wharf precinct, just a stroll along the Yarra River. Melbourne is on show at MCEC - in the architecture and design, food and hospitality, AV technology, Customer Service, location, and views.

**About the role**

To provide a seamless, safe, and exceptional experience for internal and external customers from event conception through event planning to event delivery.

**Key Accountabilities**
- Work as a key member of the Operations Team, displaying knowledge of the complexities involved in the planning and delivery of events across all markets
- Provide a consistent point of reference and escalation during the lifecycle of an event.
- Work collaboratively within the Operations team to ensure efficient and effective event coverage where required.
- Actively contribute to the creation and implementation of Capital Expenditure projects with a focus on enhancing MCEC facilities.
- Act in a Contract Administrator Delegate role for Extension or Time requests under the PPP, liaising on maintenance plans, pre-agreed temporary fixes etc.
- Take responsibility of the operational management of assigned events.
- Assist with the planning and administration of events to ensure that all customer and MCEC expectations are met or exceeded where possible.
- Oversee the management and running of events at the MCEC to ensure the highest level of service to customers, contractors, and internal stakeholders.
- Provide point of escalation and resolution for customer challenges, diplomatically presenting solutions to complex issues in a positive way.
- Work cohesively within the broader Operations Management Team and internal service partners to drive initiatives that contribute to long-term operational excellence and optimal building presentation standards.
- Liaise with external stakeholders to manage and coordinate building maintenance and set ups, mitigating any impact to the venue calendar of events. Act proactively to raise requests and awareness of any damage to building or infrastructure.

**Qualifications, knowledge, and Experience**

**Essential**
- Previous experience working in a mid-senior level Operational Management role within a high volume multi-faceted venue
- Excellent interpersonal and relationship management skills.
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills, and video call etiquette.
- Experience in managing external vendor/contractor relationships
- Ability to deliver outstanding customer service
- A successful track record in interpreting and delivering customer expectations and needs.
- Must work well under pressure and have a ‘hands-on’, problem solving mentality
- Highly developed time management skills and demonstrated ability to meet deadlines and to effectively manage multiple projects.
- Ability to communicate and lead effectively at all levels, including the ability to gain co
- operation and assistance from other employees.
- Must be able to work flexible hours including regular weekend work.

**Desirable**
- Experience with EBMS
- Tertiary qualifications in venue management or related areas
- OH&S qualifications

**Working at MCEC**

At MCEC we encourage ideas and imagination and support our people to be inspirational. Whatever your role, we'll foster the development of skills, insights, and leadership. You'll be working in a Melbourne icon, with a welcoming and supportive team. And there are many other benefits - 14 weeks paid parental leave; flexible work options; purchased leave; employee discounts; onsite restaurants, cafes, and parking; and South Wharf and the city at our doorstep. We are diverse, inclusive, and collaborative.

Built on the banks of the Birrarung (Yarra River), Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre (MCEC) acknowledges the Traditional Owners of Narrm, the Boon Wurrung and Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung people of the Kulin nation. We pay our respects to their Elders past, present, and to Elders of all First Nations communities that visit MCEC.

We recognise the significance of the Birrarung to Traditional Owners as a life source and a meeting place and seek to honour a 40,000 year tradition of building community and exchanging ideas on these lands.