Head of Events & Operations - UAEN

Role Summary

Strategic Planning & Execution

• Develop, manage, and execute the event and activations calendar in alignment with AD Airports' strategic objectives and goals.
• Work with the VP of Marketing, Brand and Communications and senior stakeholders to deliver end-to-end event management needs for the business.
• Create and implement comprehensive event plans, from conception through to execution, ensuring alignment with business objectives.
• Coordinate all internal and external parties, ensuring a cohesive and consistent approach to delivering AD Airports' brand at events and corporate functions.

Event Execution & Coordination

• Manage end-to-end delivery of all corporate events, conferences, exhibitions, product launches, and brand activations.
• Develop and manage the execution of trade delegations, roadshows, and international events in coordination with embassies, business agencies, and consultants.
• Work closely with the marketing, brand and communications team to ensure all events are aligned with the company’s branding and messaging.

Stakeholder Management & Collaboration

• Serve as the primary liaison with internal and external senior stakeholders to align with their event requirements and deliver events on time and within budget.
• Collaborate with various department heads to develop and implement event strategies that align with AD Airports' business goals.
• Brainstorm, research, plan, and execute events and conferences for the business, ensuring alignment with AD Airports’ strategic objectives.
• Build strong relationships with embassies, local and global agencies, industry partners, to support international event participation.

Agency & Budget Management

• Lead procurement and management of third-party suppliers and agencies, ensuring cost control, quality standards, and timely delivery.
• Monitor and direct the timely delivery of all activities and events related to AD Airports, ensuring optimal brand exposure and impact.
• Manage event budgets, ensuring cost efficiency and timely utilisation of funds while balancing impact and brand exposure.

Department Operations

• Oversee governance and operational support for the Marketing, Brand and Communications team, including:
• Policy and procedure development and compliance.
• Addressing departmental audits and risk management gaps.
• Asset management (digital and physical), inventory controls, and documentation.
• Budget planning, tracking, and reporting in coordination with Finance and Procurement.
• Standardize and streamline workflows, documentation, and reporting across all team functions.

Monitoring, Reporting, & Continuous Improvement

• Monitor trends and market dynamics, competitor activities, and emerging tools to ensure brand relevance at all events and activations.
• Create post-event reports, evaluate the effectiveness of events, and provide insights to senior
• management for continuous improvement.
• Track and report on event metrics, ensuring projects are completed on time, on budget, and to the highest standards.

Project Management & Leadership

• Take full project management responsibility for the overall delivery of event programmes, ensuring all components are managed efficiently.
• Track the overall progress of event programmes, identifying and addressing any challenges or delays.
• Ensure a joined-up approach across both internal and external teams, coordinating a range of resources to execute events effectively.

Qualifications/ Education And Experience

• Top competencies required:
• Strong project management and organisational skills, with the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• **Demonstrates flexibility to work on weekdays, weekends, and public holidays in alignment with event requirements.**
• Experience managing budgets, vendor relationships, and event logistics.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills.
• Strong understanding of branding, event execution, and the ability to develop strategic
• event plans.
• Skilled in using event management tools and software.

Education and Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Event Management, Marketing, or a related field

Experience

• 10 years of experience in event planning, with at least 5 years in a leadership role.