Operations Manager

Job Description

Operations Manager | BLASE Leuven

The Tone:
This is an in-person Operations Manager role for BLASE Leuven, an organization that transforms ambitious concepts into memorable events. You will be the essential force behind the scenes, responsible for orchestrating every detail from venue scouting to financial oversight. This role is crucial for ensuring that every BLASE event not only runs flawlessly from start to finish but also achieves its full potential. Your meticulous planning and calm execution directly guarantee the seamless success and quality of all BLASE productions.

The TL;DR
• Role: Full Time
• Type: Academic Year-focused
• Location: In-person, Leuven
• Mission: Ensure every BLASE event runs flawlessly from start to finish by managing all behind-the-scenes logistics and operations.

What You’ll Actually Do
• Event Planning & Sourcing: Scout and secure the best venues within Leuven, concurrently managing all food and beverage arrangements for successful events.
• Booking & Compliance: Ensure all necessary bookings, reservations, and administrative paperwork are completed accurately and submitted strictly on time.
• On-Site Event Execution: Lead the physical setup and breakdown of events, guaranteeing seamless operations and a smooth experience for all participants.
• Inventory & Investment: Systematically organize all organizational stock and assets, while proactively researching and recommending strategic investments in new equipment.
• Budgetary Management: Maintain strict financial oversight, ensuring all expenditures align with realistic limits and contribute to event quality without waste.

The Must-Haves
• Background: Managerial role with core domain knowledge in event logistics, venue and supplier coordination, and financial oversight.
• Experience: Demonstrated experience in coordinating complex event logistics, managing multiple stakeholders, and ensuring operational excellence.
• Skills:
• Creative Problem-Solving: Ability to quickly devise and implement effective workarounds for unexpected challenges such as venue layout issues or delayed deliveries.
• Exceptional Organizational Acumen: Natural proficiency in planning, managing checklists, timestamps, and logistics to ensure no detail is overlooked.
• Professional Communication & Negotiation: Skill in acting as the main point of contact for venues and suppliers, negotiating deals, and representing BLASE with a reliable and polished attitude.
• Composure Under Pressure: Proven ability to remain calm, think fast, and maintain focus, effectively guiding the team through hectic event-day situations.
• Financial Management: Demonstrated capability in monitoring budgets, ensuring wise expenditure of resources, and keeping projects on track financially.
• Bonus: Possession of a driver’s license for coordinating logistics and material transport across Leuven.