The Ops Nest Launches Third Annual State of Ops Research
The Ops Nest has launched its annual call for input into the only dedicated research into the operations role within the events industry. The State of Ops research gives operations professionals a voice, surfaces key challenges and trends in the industry, and provides benchmarks that support the development and professionalisation of the ops function.
Lou Kiwanuka, Founder of The Ops Nest, said: “Three years of data is a real turning point. It gives us the ability to spot genuine patterns across the sector in pay, in challenges, and in the skills ops professionals need most. This research isn’t about collecting data for the sake of it. It’s about driving change. It allows us to direct our training, shape our member content, and support the professional growth of the ops role in the wider industry.”
The 2024 State of Ops report revealed several key findings, including:
- Technology, budgeting, and technical understanding were the top knowledge gaps
- Cost increases and budget pressures remained the most pressing challenges
- 52.6% of respondents felt their salary was not in line with others in the industry
- 35% of respondents reported having job titles that didn’t match common industry standards
- Only 2.6% said they stayed in ops for the salary, with most citing “the people” and “being onsite” as the heart of their role
These findings informed The Ops Nest’s learning initiatives, sparked debate amongst senior ops leaders, and helped define areas of focus for training and support for ops professionals across the industry.
Participants in the 2025 survey will receive immediate access to the 2024 report and exclusive early access to the 2025 results before the report is released publicly. The Ops Nest invites all professionals working in event operations across organisers and freelancers to share their experience and voice to help build the most complete picture yet of the evolving ops landscape.
The survey, which is 100% anonymous and independently managed by HowNow Consulting, is now open and will run until 30th May 2025.
