Event Operations Director

Job Summary

We are seeking an experienced and results-driven Event Operations Director to lead and oversee the planning, execution, and operational management of events across the UAE. The successful candidate will be responsible for developing operational strategies, managing budgets, leading cross-functional teams, ensuring seamless event delivery, and maintaining strong relationships with clients, suppliers, venues, and government authorities.

The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in event management and operations, with a proven track record of delivering large-scale corporate events, exhibitions, conferences, entertainment events, and other high-profile projects within the UAE.

Key Responsibilities

• Strategic Planning & Leadership
• Develop and implement event operations strategies aligned with the company's business objectives.
• Lead the end-to-end operational planning and execution of multiple events and projects.
• Establish operational standards, procedures, and best practices to ensure consistent service delivery.
• Identify new business opportunities and contribute to the company's growth in the UAE events industry.
• Event Planning & Execution
• Oversee event planning, production, logistics, staging, audiovisual requirements, and on-site operations.
• Ensure all events are delivered on time, within budget, and in accordance with client expectations.
• Manage venue selection, supplier coordination, event setup, dismantling, and post-event evaluations.
• Supervise the execution of corporate events, exhibitions, conferences, product launches, and large-scale public events.
• Budgeting & Financial Management
• Prepare and manage event budgets, operational forecasts, and resource allocation.
• Monitor project costs, profitability, and operational efficiency.
• Negotiate contracts and commercial terms with vendors, suppliers, and service providers.
• Identify cost-saving opportunities without compromising quality or client satisfaction.
• Team Management & Development
• Lead, manage, and develop event operations managers, project managers, production teams, and on-site staff.
• Establish clear performance objectives, responsibilities, and accountability across the team.
• Manage workforce planning, recruitment, training, and resource allocation according to project requirements.
• Foster a collaborative, performance-driven, and customer-focused working environment.
• Client & Stakeholder Management
• Build and maintain strong relationships with clients, event organisers, venue operators, suppliers, and strategic partners.
• Work closely with sales and business development teams to assess client requirements and develop operational proposals.
• Participate in client meetings, presentations, and negotiations where required.
• Ensure high levels of client satisfaction and encourage repeat business.
• UAE Regulatory Compliance & Risk Management
• Ensure compliance with applicable UAE laws, health and safety requirements, and event-related regulations.
• Coordinate with relevant government authorities and venue management to secure necessary event permits and approvals.
• Develop contingency plans and risk assessments for operational, technical, logistical, and safety-related challenges.
• Ensure compliance with venue requirements, emergency procedures, crowd management standards, and applicable insurance requirements.
• Operational Performance & Reporting
• Establish key performance indicators (KPIs) to measure event delivery, profitability, quality, and customer satisfaction.
• Monitor project progress and resolve operational challenges proactively.
• Prepare management reports covering budgets, project performance, resource utilisation, and operational risks.
• Conduct post-event reviews to identify lessons learned and implement continuous improvements.
  
  

• Bachelor's degree in Event Management, Hospitality Management, Business Administration, Operations Management, or a related field.
• Minimum 8–12 years of relevant experience in event management and operations, including at least 3–5 years in a senior leadership or director-level role.
• Proven experience managing large-scale events, complex projects, and multidisciplinary teams.
• Strong knowledge of the UAE events industry, including venue operations, supplier networks, and event permitting procedures.
• Demonstrated expertise in budgeting, financial management, project planning, contract negotiation, and operational risk management.
• Experience working with corporate clients, government entities, international brands, or major event organisers is an advantage.
  
  

• Strategic leadership and decision-making.
• Strong commercial awareness and financial acumen.
• Excellent project management and organisational skills.
• Exceptional negotiation, communication, and stakeholder management abilities.
• Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to perform under pressure.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and relevant event management or project management tools.
• Flexibility to work extended hours, weekends, and public holidays when required by event schedules.
• Excellent English communication skills; Arabic is an advantage.