Reporting to the CEO, the Head of Operations, Fashion Events will be responsible for overseeing the successful delivery and reinvention of Australia’s premier fashion event, Fashion Week. This role will involve strategic leadership, event management, stakeholder relations, and a strong focus on budget and contract management. The Head of Operations will deliver the AFC’s vision for the future of Fashion Week in Australia, shaping it as a world-class event while balancing the needs of a complex industry and many diverse stakeholders. The successful candidate will possess a strong blend of creative vision, project and commercial management expertise, and the ability to manage multiple, often conflicting, perspectives to ensure seamless event execution.
- Work closely with the CEO and Board to lead and execute the reinvention of Fashion Week in Australia, implementing AFC’s strategic goals and vision for the future of the event.
- Work closely and collaboratively with AFC’s external event partners on event planning, production, and execution.
- Oversee all aspects of event management, including logistics, programming, design, talent acquisition and brand coordination from an AFC perspective.
- Manage complex event timelines, ensuring all deadlines are met, event operations run smoothly and the budget is respective.
- Build and maintain strong relationships with key stakeholders, including designers, sponsors, government bodies, industry leaders, media partners, and venue operators.
- Manage stakeholder expectations while ensuring alignment with event objectives and budget constraints, addressing and mediating conflicting perspectives where necessary.
- Oversee the event budget, ensuring efficient use of resources and adherence to financial goals.
- Manage contracts with suppliers, venues, talent, and other external partners, ensuring favorable terms and conditions for AFC.
- Rigorously monitor and report on financial performance.
- Work closely with AFC’s marketing and communications local and international partners to develop and implement a strong brand narrative for Fashion Week that reflects the reinvention of the event, ensuring extensive coverage and engagement of the event.
- Assist in the development of strategic partnerships, sponsorships, and collaborations to elevate the event’s reach and profile.
- Identify and mitigate risks associated with large-scale event production, ensuring all necessary permits, insurance, and legal requirements are met.
KEY SKILLS
- Proven experience (8+ years) in managing large-scale events, ideally within the fashion or creative industries.
- Demonstrated success in delivering high-profile events, managing multiple stakeholders, and meeting financial objectives.
- Exceptional project management skills, with a keen eye for detail and the ability to manage complex logistics.
- Ability to manage competing stakeholder interests and find creative, diplomatic solutions.
- Advanced budgeting, financial management, and contract negotiation skills.
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to represent the Australian Fashion Council to high-profile individuals and organizations.
- Proven ability to innovate and think outside the box to transform and elevate established events.
- Strong problem-solving mindset, with the ability to navigate challenges and pivot when necessary.
- Excellent organisational and time-management skills, with the ability to prioritise effectively across multiple projects.
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