Pavilion Project Manager // Osaka Expo 2025

About BLR WORLD

BLR WORLD is an award-winning, energetic, passionate and creative Human Capital Solutions company that is on a mission to bring experiences to life in the most engaging and enthusiastic ways. Dedicated to supporting and empowering the cultural and creative industries, our cutting-edge solutions, including human resources consultancy, recruitment, training and operational management remain unrivaled. Headquartered in the UK, BLR WORLD has offices in Dubai, Doha, Riyadh, Tokyo, Melbourne and Milan, and an associate network that spans the world.

About the role

The Pavilion Project Manager (the Project Manager) will be responsible for overseeing the planning, execution, and operational phases of the Pavilion (the Pavilion) at Osaka Kansai Expo 2025 (Expo 2025).
This role requires a highly skilled professional capable of managing a complex project within an international context. The Project Manager will ensure that all aspects of the pavilion's construction and operations are delivered to the highest standards, on time, and within budget. The role involves close collaboration with various stakeholders, including clients, contractors, suppliers, and government entities, as well as the BLR WORLD team in Japan and internationally, The position demands fluency in both English
and Japanese.

Key Responsibilities

Pre-Event Phase:

- Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs): Develop and document comprehensive SOPs for all pavilion operations, ensuring alignment with project objectives and compliance with local regulations.
- Reporting: Produce detailed, timely reports for stakeholders, summarizing project progress, risks, and mitigation strategies.
- Client/Contractor Relationship: Act confidently as the Project Manager (PM) within a client/contractor framework, ensuring clear communication, adherence to contracts, and smooth project delivery.
- Contract Negotiation: Lead negotiations with suppliers and contractors to secure favorable terms that meet budgetary and operational requirements.
- Financial Management: Oversee the projects financial aspects, including budgeting, forecasting, and cost control, ensuring the project stays within financial limits.

During Event Phase:

- Team Management: Lead and manage teams in accordance with the BLR WORLD approach, ensuring alignment with project goals and high performance.
- Client Support: Provide ongoing support to the client team, addressing their needs and ensuring their satisfaction with the projects progress and outcomes.
- Supplier Management: Ensure that all suppliers deliver services to a high standard, meeting the quality expectations of the Pavilion.
- Daily Reporting: Manage daily reporting and reconciliation processes with the Japan office, ensuring transparency and accuracy in financial and operational records.
- Reporting to Stakeholders: Deliver regular reports to both the client and contractor, ensuring all parties are informed and any issues are promptly addressed.
- Problem-Solving and Crisis Management: Identify and resolve issues as they arise, implementing effective crisis management strategies to minimize disruption to pavilion operations.

Technical Skills and Tools

- Google Suite: Proficient in using Google Workspace tools (Docs, Sheets, Slides, etc.) for documentation, reporting, and communication.
- Project Management Systems (PMS): Familiarity with industry-standard PMS tools for project tracking, resource allocation, and time management.
- Financial Reporting: Competent in financial reporting, including budget monitoring, cost analysis, and financial reconciliation.

Education Requirements

- Bachelors Degree in Project Management, Business Administration, or a related field.
- Masters Degree or Certifications (e.g., PMP, PRINCE2) are highly desirable.

Hard Skills

- Project Management: Expertise in managing large-scale projects.
- Financial Management: Strong budget and financial reporting skills.
- Contract Negotiation: Experience with supplier and contractor agreements.
- Technology: Proficiency with Google Suite, PMS, and financial reporting tools.

Location & Commitments

- Full-time, contracted.
- Flexibility in working hours during the live project phase will be required.
- Site based in Osaka during the event period (April to October 2025), with some flexibility prior.