The Global Travel & Operations Manager plays a key role in the successful planning and delivery of international exhibitions, events, and trade shows. Suiting applicants with a travel organisational background, the role is responsible for coordinating workforce logistics, global travel, accommodation, freight and employee expenses, ensuring all operational requirements are delivered efficiently, accurately, and within budget. Working closely with project managers, site teams, suppliers, freight partners, and the finance department, the Manager will ensure staff and equipment are in the right place at the right time to support projects worldwide. Full-time, with flexibility to support international projects outside standard office hours when required. Role reports to managing directors.

Workforce & Resource Planning:

• Manage and maintain manpower schedules for multiple exhibition and event projects.
• Coordinate staff allocations based on project requirements and timelines.
• Liaise with project managers to ensure appropriate labour resources are available for each event.
• Update workforce records and communicate schedule changes promptly.

Global Travel Coordination:

• Arrange worldwide travel for installation and event teams, including:
• Flights
• Rail travel
• Ferry and boat crossings
• Vehicle hire
• Taxi and airport transfers
• Produce detailed travel itineraries for staff.
• Monitor travel costs while ensuring efficient routing and compliance with company travel policies.
• Manage travel amendments, cancellations, and emergency changes when required.

Accommodation Management:

• Research and source suitable hotels close to exhibition venues across the UK and internationally.
• Negotiate competitive rates where possible.
• Manage hotel bookings and rooming lists.
• Ensure accommodation meets operational requirements and project budgets.

Freight & Logistics:

• Coordinate domestic and international freight shipments for exhibitions and events.
• Arrange import and export logistics with freight forwarders and shipping agents.
• Book freight into ports, exhibition venues, and customs facilities.
• Monitor shipment progress and resolve logistical issues.
• Ensure documentation is completed accurately and on time.

Expenses & Financial Administration:

• Coordinate employee travel advances and expense requests.
• Liaise with the Accounts Department to arrange payment of travel expenses and allowances.
• Process invoices relating to travel, accommodation, freight, and logistics.
• Maintain accurate financial records and support budget tracking.

Operational Support:

• Communicate with suppliers, venues, freight companies, and international partners.
• Maintain accurate records of bookings and logistics documentation.
• Provide administrative support to project teams throughout the event lifecycle.
• Respond quickly to operational changes and resolve logistical challenges.