Division Manager

Our client, a leading international company in the technical planning and execution of events, trade fairs, congresses, and meetings, is looking for driven Division Manager to join them in Barcelona.

The Division Manager leads and develops the Exhibition Division in Barcelona, overseeing four functional teams:

• Office / Rigging Consultants
• Construction & Operations Management
• AV
• Logistics

The role is responsible for achieving the division's operational and financial objectives while ensuring efficient collaboration across teams. As the main point of contact for Fira Barcelona, exhibition organizers, and key clients, the Division Manager drives business growth, strengthens customer relationships, and continuously improves operational performance. A key strategic focus is expanding the AV business within the exhibition environment and supporting the long-term partnership with Fira Barcelona.

Leadership & Operations
• Lead, coach and develop the four team leaders and their teams.
• Define priorities, allocate resources and ensure efficient collaboration across all functions.
• Oversee day-to-day operations and ensure smooth execution of exhibition, rigging and AV projects.
• Plan workforce capacity and business activities, particularly during seasonal peak periods.
• Conduct regular operational reviews, coordinate cross-functional activities and drive continuous process improvements.
• Ensure compliance with global company standards while adapting operations to local legal, health & safety and market requirements.
• Support recruitment, succession planning, employee development and organizational growth.
• Foster a collaborative, high-performance culture and effectively manage internal and external conflicts.

Business & Financial Management
• Own the division's budget and financial performance.
• Monitor project profitability and resource utilization while implementing optimization measures.
• Develop pricing strategies and identify opportunities for operational and commercial improvement.
• Drive the growth of the AV business and strengthen customer retention.
• Develop long-term staffing and business strategies to support future growth.
• Contribute to the preparation and negotiation of future agreements with Fira Barcelona, including the planned contract renewal.

Customer & Stakeholder Management
• Serve as the primary contact for Fira Barcelona, exhibition organizers and key customers.
• Build and maintain long-term customer relationships and identify new business opportunities.
• Ensure contractual obligations and service level agreements are fulfilled.
• Represent the division professionally and strengthen its visibility and reputation within the exhibition venue.

Collaboration & Continuous Improvement
• Work closely with senior management and international support functions.
• Promote collaboration across departments and leverage organizational synergies.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives in quality, sustainability, health & safety and operational excellence.
• Contribute ideas and initiatives to further develop the Exhibition Division and support the company's strategic objectives.

• Solid professional experience in the event and/or audiovisual industry.
• Proven leadership experience with responsibility for multidisciplinary teams.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills with the ability to influence, engage and inspire people.
• Entrepreneurial mindset with strong commercial awareness and financial acumen.
• High level of commitment, resilience and flexibility regarding working hours.
• Experience with CAD software.
• Fluent in Spanish and English; German and Catalan are considered an advantage.

Our client is a leading international company in the technical planning and execution of events, trade fairs, congresses, and meetings.