*** Exhibition experience is a must***
Position: Head of Operations - Exhibitions
Location: Dubai, UAE
Sector: International Exhibitions & Large-Scale Events
Scope: Global Talent Welcome
Role Summary:
We’re seeking a seasoned operations leader to take full command of the end-to-end delivery of a major international exhibition, recognized for its complexity, scale, and impact. This role demands a high-performing individual with a strategic mindset and hands-on approach, capable of leading cross-functional teams, managing complex builds, and ensuring flawless execution from concept to close.
Key Responsibilities:
* Lead the planning and execution of the organization’s flagship global event, ensuring all operational components are delivered on time, within budget, and to the highest standards.
* Manage and coordinate the construction of temporary event infrastructure including multi-story builds, exterior pavilions, and feature installations.
* Liaise with venue stakeholders and ensure seamless coordination across logistics, build, safety, and compliance.
* Drive optimization and adherence to internal operational protocols and documentation standards.
* Serve as the operational liaison to executive leadership, offering insight, updates, and risk mitigation strategies throughout the event lifecycle.
* Foster a culture of collaboration, accountability, and continuous improvement across all delivery teams.
Required Experience & Competencies:
* Extensive background in high-volume event operations, ideally with exhibitions or trade shows hosting 30,000+ attendees.
* Proven success in overseeing complex structural builds and managing contractor performance across general contracting, rigging, freight, and temporary staffing.
* Solid track record in budget oversight of multi-million-dirham projects with an emphasis on fiscal discipline and operational excellence.
* Skilled in matrix team leadership, managing both direct reports and wider functional contributors (typically 12–14 staff).
* Experience in procurement, tender processes, supplier evaluation, and SLA compliance.
* Strong cross-departmental coordination skills—especially with sales, marketing, and production teams—to ensure operational alignment.
Leadership Style:
* Pragmatic and proactive—comfortable being on-site, solving challenges, and setting a strong example.
* Collaborative and approachable—thrives in flat, non-bureaucratic environments.
* Politically savvy and emotionally intelligent—able to manage upward and navigate executive-level pressures with poise.
* Confident in pushing back constructively and enforcing standards without compromising team morale or timelines.
Scope of Oversight:
* Manage selected team members while influencing broader operational contributors across the event ecosystem.
* Participate in ongoing supplier reviews, renegotiation cycles, and performance assessments.
* Ensure full compliance with venue guidelines, safety protocols, and civil authority regulations, particularly during construction and live show periods.
* Lead post-event analysis and future planning to embed learnings and enhance operational delivery for future editions.
Ideal Candidate Profile:
* Takes full ownership of outcomes and is driven by high personal and professional standards.
* Agile, composed, and solutions-driven—especially when navigating last-minute curveballs or shifting stakeholder demands.
* Builds credibility quickly with both leadership and delivery teams.
* Not daunted by scale, speed, or pressure—brings clarity and confidence to every phase of delivery.
*** ONLY shortlisted candidates will be contacted ***