Vancouver Christmas Market 2026
If you have lived in Vancouver for a while, chances are high that you've been to the Vancouver Christmas Market. Now in our 16th season, our authentic outdoor German Christmas Market features unique holiday shopping, seasonal entertainment, and delicious traditional food and drinks. Located in the downtown core of Vancouver, at Jack Poole Plaza, the Christmas Market will be open to the public daily from November 16 to December 24.
Employment Opportunity – Event Operations and Logistics Manager
We are looking for an energetic and highly organized Event Operations Manager to help bring the festive magic of the Christmas Market to life! This role ensures that daily programming, special events, and guest experiences run smoothly and seamlessly. You’ll work closely with entertainment, vendors, and front-of-house teams to make sure every event feels special, runs on time, and creates memorable moments for guests.
If you love events, are detail-oriented, and thrive in a fast-paced environment, this is the perfect holiday role for you!
Roles and Responsibilities:
- Oversee and manage the logistics of event load-in and load-out processes, ensuring all activities adhere to timelines, safety regulations, and efficiency standards.
- Develop and implement detailed production schedules and operational plans for event.
- Schedule, plan, and oversee large scale transportation logistics of Vancouver Christmas Market assets from storage to event site and back. This might require a very occasional overnight.
- Supervise on-site teams, including contractors, third party suppliers, and production staff, to ensure seamless event execution.
- Centralize Governmental and city relations (Licensing & permitting for Liquor License, City Event Permits, Health Department etc.)
Event Security Management:
- Manage contract with large scale security company.
- Collaborate with event security teams to develop and enforce security protocols and procedures during event.
- Ensure crowd management, access control, and emergency response plans are in place and executed effectively.
- Act as the main point of contact for security personnel and address any security concerns during event.
- Manage contract with onsite event medical team and oversee during market run.
- Manage contract with local snow removal team in anticipation of inclement weather. Ensure deployment to maintain daily operations.
- Create all emergency plans for event in collaboration with venue, city, and intercompany personnel.
Asset Management & Inventory Control:
- Maintain a comprehensive inventory of company assets, including production equipment, event materials, and supplies.
- Implement systems for tracking, maintaining, and repairing assets throughout the year.
- Conduct regular audits of inventory and manage procurement of additional resources as needed.
- Managing & receiving deliveries in collaboration with intercompany personnel at warehouse facility.
- Manage the entire border crossing activities of VCM including moving assets to and from the event site, coordinating the import of new assets, any other required shipping, and orders.
Event Planning & Coordination:
- Collaborate with internal teams to conceptualize and plan event logistics, ensuring alignment with project objectives and budgets.
- Take a lead role in collaboration with internal departments on overall event layout.
- Provide input on venue details, supplier requirements, and operational feasibility during the planning phase.
- Acquire all necessary permits for event to operate, working with necessary City of Vancouver departments.
- Prepare and manage budgets for event operations, identifying cost-saving opportunities where possible.
Supplier Management:
- Negotiate contracts with third-party suppliers, including equipment rental companies, security providers, and other service vendors.
- Coordinate VCM’s insurance needs and coordinate full process from establishing needs, to quote collection and comparison to contract review and signing.
- Monitor supplier performance, ensuring services are delivered according to contract terms and quality standards.
- Build and maintain strong relationships with suppliers to ensure reliable partnerships.
Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree in Event Management, Operations, Business Administration, or a related field (or equivalent experience).
- Minimum of 5+ years of experience in event production, operations, or a similar role within the events industry.
- Strong knowledge of event logistics, security protocols, and production requirements.
- Proven experience managing large teams, including contractors and third-party vendors.
- Exceptional organizational and time-management skills, with the ability to handle multiple projects simultaneously.
- Proficiency in inventory management systems, project management tools, and Microsoft Office Suite.
- Excellent negotiation, communication, and problem-solving skills.
- Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays as required by event schedules.
- Valid Driver's license
- Owns or has access to a vehicle as needed
- Ability to lift up to 50 pounds and work in an outside environment for long periods of time.
- Diplomatic approach while working within policies, rules, and procedures.
- Demonstrative, self-critical, determined approach to completing assignments.
- Must have a valid passport and be willing to travel to the US.
Preferred Skills:
- Certifications in event planning or production management (e.g., CMP, CSEP, or similar).
- Familiarity with safety regulations and compliance standards in the event industry.
- Experience with large-scale, high-profile events.
What We Offer:
- Competitive salary: $75,000 - $85,000
- Employee Appreciation Program
- Free Market Passes and Other Perks
- Extended Health Care from first day of employment
- Hybrid work Environment (February – August)
- Opportunities for professional growth and career development.
- A collaborative and dynamic work environment with a focus on creativity and innovation.
- The chance to work on exciting and high-impact events
Application Process Please submit both your RESUME and COVER LETTER. Applications submitted without a cover letter will not be considered.
Job Types: Full-time, Seasonal
Pay: $75,000.00-$85,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- Casual dress
- Company events
- Dental care
- Employee assistance program
- Extended health care
Application question(s):
- How many years of international logistics experience do you have?
- Did you read this job posting all the way through to understand how to properly apply for this position?
- Do you have a valid Class 5 Driver's License and Valid Canadian Passport?
- How many years have you worked in large scale events? Does this include outdoor events? Please briefly Explain.
Work Location: In person
