MICE Operations Manager

About the Role

We are looking for a seasoned Senior MICE Operations professional to lead our operations function for corporate travel, incentive, conference, and exhibition projects. This role goes beyond individual project execution — the ideal candidate will drive operational strategy, mentor a team of operations executives, and be accountable for the overall performance, profitability, and client satisfaction across a portfolio of projects.

What You’ll Do

Strategic Project Ownership

Own end-to-end operational delivery across multiple concurrent, high-value MICE projects, ensuring alignment with company objectives and profitability targets
Set operational strategy, standards, and best practices for the team, driving continuous improvement in project execution
Review and approve critical path timelines, operational plans, and contingency plans prepared by the team for complex or high-risk projects
Take direct ownership of the organisation's largest, most complex, or highest-visibility accounts

 

Team Leadership & Development

Lead, mentor, and manage a team of Operations Managers/Executives, providing guidance, training, and performance feedback
Allocate projects and resources across the team based on complexity, workload, and individual strengths
Conduct regular reviews, set KPIs, and drive accountability across the operations team
Build a strong bench of talent through coaching, upskilling, and succession planning

Supplier & Partner Strategy

Lead strategic negotiations with key global partners, hotel chains, DMCs, and airlines to secure preferred rates and long-term partnership agreements
Establish and maintain relationships with senior stakeholders at Tourism Boards, embassies, and key destination partners
Set vendor evaluation frameworks and standards, ensuring consistent quality across the supplier network
Identify and onboard new strategic partners to expand the company's global sourcing capabilities

 

Financial Ownership & Reporting 

Own the P&L for the operations vertical, ensuring cost control, margin protection, and revenue targets are consistently met
Review project-level budgets, financial reconciliations, and profitability reports prepared by the team
Present operational performance, financial insights, and strategic recommendations to senior leadership
Identify cost-saving opportunities and process efficiencies across the project lifecycle

 

Client Relationship Management

Act as the senior escalation point for key clients, building long-term relationships with senior stakeholders
Lead client review meetings, presenting performance insights, and identifying opportunities for account growth
Support the sales team in pitching for large or complex accounts, bringing operational expertise to proposals

 

On-Site Leadership & Crisis Management

Provide senior oversight for on-site execution of flagship projects, stepping in to manage escalations or high-stakes situations
Serve as the final point of decision-making for on-ground crisis management, ensuring swift, effective resolution

 

Process & Systems Improvement

Drive the adoption of technology, tools, and systems (e.g., HRMS/project management platforms) to improve operational efficiency
Standardise SOPs, checklists, and reporting formats across the team to ensure consistency and scalability

What We’re Looking For

Bachelor's degree in Travel & Tourism, Hospitality Management, Business Administration, or related field (MBA/PGDM preferred)
Minimum 7+ years of experience in MICE operations or corporate travel, including at least 2 years in a team leadership/managerial capacity
Demonstrated track record of managing large, complex, multi-destination MICE projects with full P&L accountability
Strong network of global suppliers, DMCs, and Tourism Board contacts
Proven experience mentoring and developing high-performing teams