Head of Operations - Large scale exhibitions

SALT; United Arab Emirates; On-site; AED 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

A global leader in exhibitions is seeking a Head of Operations for a major energy event in Dubai. This role involves overseeing the operational delivery of large-scale exhibitions, managing complex builds, budgets, and ensuring compliance with health and safety regulations. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in event operations and a strong leadership background.

Qualifications

• 6+ years in operations for major exhibitions.
• Proven leadership across complex, high-pressure builds.

Responsibilities

• Lead full operational delivery of a large-scale international exhibition.
• Manage supplier tendering, procurement, and multi-million-dirham budgets.
• Collaborate with internal teams across content, sales, marketing, and production.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Stakeholder Management

Health & Safety Compliance

Job description

Head of Operations Global Energy Exhibition

Dubai, UAE (Open to relocators what is key is extensive experience in large-scale event operations (preferably exhibitions with 30,000+ attendees).

Our client, a global leader in exhibitions, is hiring a Head of Operations to lead the full delivery of one of the world's largest and most complex energy events, held annually in the UAE.

This high-impact role suits a hands-on operations leader with a strong grasp of complex builds, budget control, and cross-functional coordination. You'll take charge of planning, execution, and continuous improvementensuring every detail runs on time, on budget, and at the highest standard.

Responsibilities:

• Lead full operational delivery of a large-scale international exhibition.
• Oversee temporary structures and venue logistics, including outdoor and double-story builds.
• Manage supplier tendering, procurement, and multi-million-dirham budgets.
• Ensure HSE compliance and adherence to venue and regulatory requirements.
• Drive continuous improvement post-show to enhance efficiency and customer experience.
• Collaborate with internal teams across content, sales, marketing, and production.
• Build, manage, and mentor a high-performing operations team.

Requirements:

• 6+ years in operations for major exhibitions (30,000+ attendees).
• Proven leadership across complex, high-pressure builds and event cycles.
• Strong commercial and contract management skills.
• Deep understanding of health & safety and event compliance.
• Excellent communicator and stakeholder manager.
• Resilient, adaptable, and calm under pressure