Operations Manager; Stokes Croft Block Party

Lakota is seeking an experienced Operations Manager to oversee delivery of the Stokes Croft Block Party — one of Bristol’s biggest multi-venue street events. This freelance role is focused on ensuring seamless operations across multiple venues and stakeholders on the day of the show, with additional responsibilities in the lead-up to the event and during post-event debrief.

The Block Party Operations Manager is the central coordinator across venues, suppliers, and teams. You’ll oversee live event operations, site management, and communication between contractors, security, medical, and venue staff. This role is ideal for someone who thrives in high-pressure environments, has strong organisational skills, and experience managing large-scale events.

Proven experience in event operations, festival/site management, or venue management

Strong organisational and leadership skills

Ability to manage multiple venues and teams simultaneously

Excellent communication skills and ability to work with diverse stakeholders (venues, contractors, authorities)

Good knowledge of health & safety, crowd management, and licensing requirements

Availability in the weeks leading up to the event, on the event day, and for post-event debrief

Coordinate all venues, contractors, and suppliers on the day of the Block Party

Lead communication between security, medical, production, and venue management teams

Oversee site build and de-rig, ensuring compliance with licensing and health & safety plans

Manage operations staff and volunteers across multiple locations

Troubleshoot issues quickly to maintain smooth event delivery

Contribute to pre-event planning meetings and schedules

Support post-event reporting and debrief with the Lakota team and stakeholders

Freelance contract for the duration of the event cycle

Work on one of Bristol’s largest community-led events

Opportunity to collaborate with multiple venues and stakeholders in the city

Behind-the-scenes experience with Lakota’s festivals and large-scale productions

Build long-term relationships for future roles across Lakota projects

Lakota is one of the UK’s best-known nightlife and events brands with a long-standing presence in Bristol’s cultural landscape. We are committed to inclusivity, diversity, and community engagement. The Stokes Croft Block Party is a flagship event in our calendar, bringing together multiple venues, artists, and thousands of guests.

Send your CV to with the subject line Block Party Operations Manager Application.