Venue & Event Operations Manager

Temporary Full-Time (ASAP Start – August 2027)

Do you thrive in fast-paced, high-profile venue and event environments?

Mackay Regional Council is seeking an experienced Venue & Event Operations Manager to lead the day-to-day and strategic operations of the Mackay Entertainment & Convention Centre (MECC) and associated venues during a temporary full-time contract.

This is a hands-on leadership role where no two days are the same — perfect for an experienced individual who can confidently lead teams, manage complex events, and build strong stakeholder relationships while maintaining exceptional service standards.

About the Role

Reporting to the Executive Manager MECC and Events, the Venue & Event Operations Manager will be responsible for overseeing safe, effective, and high-quality venue and event operations across MECC and associated facilities.

Depending on experience, the successful candidate may be appointed at Level 7 or Level 8, contributing at both operational and strategic levels.

Key responsibilities include:

• Leading and managing multidisciplinary teams across venue operations and event delivery
• Overseeing the planning and delivery of a diverse range of events and functions
• Managing operational budgets, resources, and service delivery outcomes
• Building strong relationships with clients, contractors, community stakeholders, and partners
• Ensuring compliance with legislative, licensing, WHS, and safety requirements
• Driving continuous improvement, service innovation, and high-performance culture
• Undertaking Duty Manager responsibilities as required

Some weekend and out-of-hours work will be required to support event operations.

About You

You are a confident people leader with proven experience in venue or event operations and the ability to balance operational delivery with stakeholder and team leadership responsibilities.

You will bring:

• 3–5 years’ experience in venue management, event operations, hospitality, or a related field
• Demonstrated experience leading teams in a dynamic, customer-focused environment
• Strong operational, financial, and organisational skills
• Well-developed communication and stakeholder engagement capabilities
• Sound knowledge of WHS, licensing, and compliance obligations within event and venue settings

Essential Requirements

• Tertiary qualification in Event Management, Venue Management, Business, or a related field or equivalent relevant experience
• QLD “C” Class Driver Licence (or transferable equivalent)
• Blue Card (Working with Children Check)
• Willingness to undertake a Criminal History Check
• Responsible Service of Alcohol (RSA)
• Responsible Management of Licensed Venues (RMLV)

Why Join MRC?

• Base hourly rate of $63.00 - $69.00 (This is a temporary banded 7 – 8 position. The level offered will be determined by qualifications and experience).
• Up to 18% superannuation (conditions apply).
• Choice of 4 or 5 weeks’ annual leave with 17.5% leave loading.
• May be eligible for salary sacrificing options.
• Membership to lifestyle benefits program including corporate discounts.
• Study and assistance programs for career development.
• Learningand career development opportunities.
• Employee Assistance Program.
• Employee health and wellbeing initiatives.
• Active Social Clubs.

Applications for this position may close earlier than expected.

Don’t delay - if you are ready to apply, please submit your cover letter and resume today.

Important information for applicants:

Applicants who progress beyond the interview stage will be required to undergo a pre-employment process, which includes comprehensive Pre-Employment Medical Assessments (inclusive of Drug and Alcohol testing)

We are an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer, where all applicants are treated fairly and respectfully and have equal access to all available opportunities. At Mackay Regional Council, diversity is about creating a respectful and inclusive workplace that recognises our employees' unique contributions and perspectives, working together to deliver extraordinary results.