Senior Manager Operational Readiness

Overview

Operational Readiness Planning

• Implement the Operational Readiness Framework for the tournament.
• Execute readiness methodologies, governance structures, milestones, and reporting mechanisms.
• Maintain the Operational Readiness Master Plan aligned with tournament milestones.
• Oversee readiness activities across 2 competition cities and associated non-competition sites.
• Ensure consistent readiness standards are applied across Jeddah and Khobar.
• Coordinate venue operational integration and transition activities.
• Monitor venue-specific readiness plans and ensure timely closure of actions and risks.
• Lead cross-functional operational integration
• Facilitate readiness training programme and operational planning sessions:
• + Tabletop exercises
• + Functional exercises
• + Venue operational tests
• + Simulation exercises
• + Test events
• Identify interdependencies and operational risks between functions.
• Ensure lessons learned are documented and corrective actions implemented.
• Conduct readiness reviews and audits across venues and functions.
• Track readiness progression through defined assessments and reporting frameworks.
• Prepare executive reports and readiness status updates for senior leadership.
• Monitor critical operational risks and mitigation plans.
• Drive stakeholder alignment on readiness objectives and timelines.
• Provide leadership support during tournament-time operations and issue resolution.
• Coordinate city and venue responsibilities across the team.
• Foster a collaborative, delivery-focused culture.

Qualifications & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in business administration, Event Management, Operations Management, Project Management, or related discipline.
• Minimum 8-10 years of experience in major events, sports events, venue operations, operational readiness, Governance and programme management, or large-scale infrastructure projects.
• Experience delivering operational readiness programmes for major international sporting events (e.g. FIFA World Cup, AFC tournaments, Olympic Games, Expo, Formula 1, or comparable mega-events) airports, transportation hubs, or large public venues.
• Demonstrated experience managing multi-stakeholder environments.
• Proven leadership experience managing teams and complex projects.
• Experience in
• Knowledge of venue operations and tournament delivery models.
• Project Management certification (PMP, PRINCE2, MSP or equivalent).
• Experience working in the Middle East region.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills
• High attention to detail
• Ability to operate in a fast-paced, complex environment