Head of Events & Operations - UAE National

Head of Events & Operations

ROLE SUMMARY

The Head of Events & Operations will lead the strategic planning, execution, and operational management of all events, corporate functions, and activations for AD Airports. In addition to delivering impactful events that elevate the brand and support strategic goals, the role also oversees operational functions within the Marketing, Brand and Communications department, including audits, policy and procedures governance, budget management, and marketing asset oversight. This is a cross-functional leadership position requiring a dynamic individual with proven expertise in event management, project management, operational excellence, stakeholder engagement, and team leadership. The role involves managing relationships with external agencies, vendors, and stakeholders, ensuring a cohesive and impactful event experience.

MAJOR AREAS OF RESPONSIBILITY

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.

Other Duties:

• Perform any other duties as requested by the reporting manager.

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.

SKILLS

• Strong project management and organisational skills, with the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• 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.