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