Overview
Event and Tradeshow Coordinator Jobs in Johannesburg, Gauteng, South Africa at SMD Technologies
Title: Event and Tradeshow Coordinator
Company: SMD Technologies
Location: Johannesburg, Gauteng, South Africa
Job Title: Event & Tradeshow Coordinator
Location: 2 Lascelles Road, Meadowbrook, Edenvale
Hours: 08:00 – 17:00 weekdays
Reporting to: Head of Marketing
About The Company
We are a fast-growing retail and wholesale distribution business operating in a high-performance warehouse and operational environment. Our people are at the heart of what we do, and we are looking for a hands-on Event & Tradeshow Coordinator to support our warehouse and operational teams.
Job Purpose
We are seeking a proactive and detail-oriented Event & Tradeshow Coordinator to take ownership of all brand-facing events, including tradeshows, retail activations, and client events.
The ideal candidate is highly organised, commercially aware, and confident managing end-to-end event execution. This role combines planning, coordination, and hands-on delivery to ensure all events are impactful, well-executed, and aligned to business objectives.
Key Responsibilities:
Tradeshow & Activation Management
- Plan and execute end-to-end tradeshow participation.
- Manage client events, product launches, and brand activations.
- Ensure all events deliver against clear commercial objectives.
Event Planning & Strategy
- Translate business goals into clear event and activation plans.
- Define target audience, messaging, and product focus for each event.
- Ensure all activations align with brand strategy and positioning.
- Collaborate with internal teams to ensure consistency and impact.
Vendor & Supplier Management
- Source and manage suppliers, including stand builders, AV teams, and logistics providers.
- Ensure all vendors deliver according to brief, budget, and timelines.
- Manage supplier communication and performance.
Stand & Experience Execution
- Work with design teams to develop high-impact exhibition stands and layouts.
- Ensure effective product display, customer flow, and engagement.
- Oversee on-site setup, execution, and breakdown.
Event Operations & Logistics
- Manage all event logistics, including:
- Equipment, furniture, and branding
- Stock and product requirements
- Staffing and on-site coordination
- Identify risks and implement contingency plans.
- Ensure smooth and professional execution at all times.
Budget & ROI Management
- Manage event budgets and track spend.
- Ensure cost control while maintaining quality execution.
Track and report on:
Leads generated
Engagement levels
Sales impact
Return on investment (ROI)
Cross-Functional Collaboration
- Work closely with marketing, sales, product, and digital teams.
- Ensure events are aligned with broader campaigns and initiatives.
- Support integrated brand and product strategies.
Reporting & Continuous Improvement
- Compile post-event reports including performance metrics and insights.
- Provide recommendations to improve future events.
- Continuously optimise execution and outcomes.
Qualifications & Experience:
- 3–5 years’ experience in events, activations, or tradeshow coordination.
- Proven experience managing large-scale events or exhibitions.
- Experience in retail, consumer electronics, or FMCG is advantageous.
- Strong project management and organizational skills.
- Ability to manage multiple events simultaneously.
Additional Requirements:
- Based in Johannesburg (travel required)
- Weekend work may be required depending on event schedules