Freelance Operations & Production Manager - Events & Exhibition

Job Title: Operations Manager – Events & Exhibitions

• Location: Dubai, United Arab Emirates (On-site with regional travel)
• Employment Type: Freelance
• Department: Operations & Event Production
• Reporting To: Head of Events & Exhibition

We are looking for an experienced and detail-oriented Operations Manager to lead the planning, logistics, and on-site execution of corporate events, trade shows, brand activations, and large-scale exhibitions. You will oversee end-to-end operational readiness, manage vendor and contractor relationships, ensure strict health, safety, and compliance (H&S) standards, and deliver seamless live experiences on time and within budget. Key Responsibilities

• Operational Planning & Execution: Lead the end-to-end operational planning, site setup, live running, and post-event dismantling for all exhibitions and corporate events.
• Budget Management: Develop, monitor, and manage project budgets to maintain cost efficiency, track expenses, and prevent overruns.
• Logistics & Floorplans: Coordinate venue logistics, booth allocations, technical requirements, shipping, and floorplan layouts (including compliance with venue and municipal regulations).
• Supplier & Contractor Management: Source, negotiate, and supervise external suppliers, stand builders, AV/production crews, and service providers.
• Health, Safety & Compliance (H&S): Ensure all site operations comply with local venue regulations, safety codes, and risk assessment protocols.
• Team Leadership: Recruit, brief, and supervise on-site event staff, crew members, and operational coordinators.
• Client & Stakeholder Communication: Work closely with internal account teams and external clients to translate requirements into actionable operational plans and resolve on-site challenges in real time.

Qualifications, Experience & Skills

• Experience: Minimum of 5 years of proven experience in event operations, exhibition management, or live production agencies.
• Technical Skills:
• Familiarity with project management and floorplan/design tools (e.g., AutoCAD, MS Project, Smartsheet, Monday.com, or Adobe Suite).
• Strong grasp of venue rules, staging, lighting, sound, and bespoke joinery/exhibition build.
• Soft Skills:
• Exceptional problem-solving skills under high-pressure, fast-paced live environments.
• Strong leadership, negotiation, and time-management capabilities.
• Flexibility to work variable hours, weekends, and travel across the GCC/MENA region when required.
• Must be available to join immediately.
• Must have own valid UAE residence visa, valid Emirates ID (EID), valid UAE driving licence, and personal car.

Pay: AED15,000.00 - AED20,000.00 per month

Work Location: In person