Site & Operations Manager

Queenscliff Music Festival seeks dynamic Site & Operations Manager to manage Festival infrastructure, production services and operational delivery.

Reports to: Festival DirectorTime Fraction: 6 days per fortnight (.6 FTE), averaged across contract periodLocation: Queenscliff, Victoria (QMF Office & Event Sites) – WFH arrangements by agreement

About Queenscliff Music Festival

Queenscliff Music Festival (QMF) is one of Victoria’s most respected regional festivals, renowned for its artistic excellence, community connection and strong commitment to sustainability and responsible event delivery.

We are seeking an experienced and highly capable Site & Operations Manager to lead the planning and delivery of all site, production and operational elements of the Festival and associated QMF events.

The Role

This role provides specialist expertise across infrastructure, emergency planning, safety and risk, sustainability, security, technical production and compliance — ensuring the safe, compliant and seamless delivery of the event across all Festival locations, including the main site, external venues, campground and transport hubs.

QMF invites Expressions of Interest — demonstrate your proven experience and show how you can deliver on some or all of the key responsibilities outlined, and help shape the success of QMF.

Key Responsibilities

Site, Production & Operations Planning & Delivery

• Develop and execute detailed Site Plans (CAD preferred), including layout, signage and infrastructure.
• Plan, procure and manage all site infrastructure and logistics including venues, tents, toilets, fencing, lighting, signage, site offices, stalls, furniture, décor and associated labour.
• Provide on-site operational oversight across bump-in, live event and bump-out phases.
• Develop and implement comprehensive Event Management Plans and event schedules, alongside associated documentation within required timeframes.
• Develop and execute Waste Management Plan and sustainability initiatives aligned with QMF’s objectives.
• Develop and manage Traffic & Transport Management Plan in collaboration with council and contractors.
• Develop and implement Noise Management Plan in consultation with EPA, production suppliers, artists and local residents.
• Develop and implement Security Management Plan and manage third-party contractors. Work with local authorities and stakeholders to ensure positive outcomes.
• Oversee all Production Infrastructure & Services including audio, lighting, staging, video and associated labour.
• Provide on-site production management and oversee artist technical advancing.
• Procure and manage emergency services including fire, police and medical providers.
• Act as key liaison with local council and authorities, ensuring all permits and approvals are secured (planning, occupancy, POPE, local laws, road closures etc.).
• Liaise with venues regarding logistics, contracting, technical requirements, audience capacities and accessibility.
• Conduct post-event debriefs with contractors and suppliers.

Risk & Compliance

• Review and implement risk management and OH&S policies.
• Maintain and update Risk Registers and conduct risk assessments.
• Oversee contractor safety, inductions and compliance inspections.
• Provide compliance assurance to the QMF Board throughout all event phases.

Financial Management

• Manage site, production and operations budgets in collaboration with the Festival Director.
• Obtain quotes, conduct market reviews and contract suppliers in line with procurement policies.
• Provide regular budget tracking and reporting.
• Manage POs, invoicing and payment tracking in consultation with the General Manager.

Staff & Crew Management

• Develop staffing structures and recruitment timelines.
• Recruit and manage all site & production staff, operators and crew.
• Develop rosters and oversee workforce management.
• Deliver inductions, briefings and training.
• Lead post-event debriefs with staff and contractors.

Communication & Administration

• Collaborate across the QMF team and attend relevant meetings.
• Maintain strong relationships with suppliers, contractors, authorities and stakeholders.
• Manage supplier contracts, insurances, licences and compliance documentation.
• Maintain accurate records in shared systems.
• Provide operational advice and expertise to the QMF team.

About You

You are an experienced event operations and production professional with:

• Demonstrated experience delivering large-scale festivals or complex outdoor events
• Strong technical production knowledge (audio, lighting, staging, video)
• Experience in site planning (CAD preferred)
• Strong understanding of risk, safety and compliance requirements
• Experience liaising with council and regulatory authorities
• Budget management and procurement experience
• Calm, solutions-focused leadership under pressure

You are highly organised, proactive and thrive in dynamic environments requiring both strategic oversight and hands-on delivery.

Why Join QMF?

This is an opportunity to play a role in delivering one of Australia’s most respected regional music festivals. You will contribute to an organisation deeply connected to its community and committed to responsible, sustainable event delivery.