Head of Audio

Groupe NOVELTY; Dubai; On-site; AED 360,000 - 600,000; Full time

Job summary

Novelty Middle East seeks a dynamic Head of Audio to lead our audio operations for high-profile live events and audiovisual projects in Dubai. You will drive strategy, oversee technical resources, and ensure exceptional delivery while inspiring teams of engineers and technicians.

In this senior role you will manage equipment, vendors, safety standards, and budgets, delivering innovative solutions that meet client expectations and industry best practices.

Qualifications

• Degree in Audio Engineering or related field.
• Minimum 5 years in senior audio leadership roles.
• Experience with live events, entertainment, or broadcast environments.
• Strong knowledge of professional audio systems and safety standards.

Responsibilities

• Define and implement the audio department strategy aligned with company goals.
• Lead and mentor audio engineers, technicians, and contractors.
• Oversee design, deployment, and testing of large-scale audio systems.
• Plan resources, budgets, and equipment for events and projects.
• Ensure compliance with health, safety and industry regulations.
• Build strong client and partner relationships and drive innovation.

Skills

Leadership

Team management

Audio systems

Live sound

Education

Degree in Audio Engineering

Tools

Dante

AES67

AVB

Job description

Novelty Middle East is seeking an experienced and dynamic Head of Audio to join our team starting in September In this key leadership role you will oversee the management of audio operations technical resources equipment and personnel ensuring the successful delivery of high-quality live event and audiovisual projects while driving innovation operational excellence and client satisfaction

ROLES amp RESPONSIBILITIES

Audio Strategy amp Technical Leadership

Define and implement the audio department strategy in line with company objectives Establish technical standards best practices and operational procedures Provide expert guidance on audio system design and deployment Drive innovation and evaluate new audio technologies equipment and workflows Act as the senior technical authority for all audio-related matters

Project Planning amp Event Delivery

Analyze client requirements and translate them into effective audio solutions Review technical specifications riders and event requirements Ensure the successful preparation installation operation and dismantling of audio systems Validate technical feasibility resource allocation and project execution plans Support complex or high-profile events requiring advanced audio expertise

Team Management amp Development

Lead mentor and develop audio engineers technicians and freelance staff Coordinate workforce planning and resource allocation Conduct performance reviews and identify training needs Promote a collaborative safety-focused and customer-oriented culture Support recruitment and onboarding of audio personnel

Equipment amp Asset Management

Oversee the maintenance calibration testing and storage of audio equipment Ensure inventory accuracy and equipment availability Develop investment recommendations and equipment renewal plans Monitor equipment performance and lifecycle management Ensure compliance with manufacturer recommendations and company standards

Operational Excellence amp Compliance

Ensure all audio operations comply with health safety and industry regulations Identify and mitigate operational and technical risks Develop and implement quality control procedures Monitor departmental KPIs and operational performance Lead continuous improvement initiatives across audio operations

Budget amp Resource Management

Manage departmental budgets and operational expenditures Optimize the utilization of human and technical resources Support project costing and technical quotations Monitor financial performance and identify cost-efficiency opportunities

Client amp Stakeholder Relations

Serve as the primary escalation point for audio-related matters Build strong relationships with clients suppliers manufacturers and technical partners Ensure client satisfaction through high-quality service delivery Participate in technical meetings site visits and post-event reviews Contribute to business development by promoting innovative audio solutions

Reporting amp Continuous Improvement

Produce technical reports and post-project evaluations Analyze project outcomes and identify improvement opportunities Share best practices and lessons learned across the organization Maintain awareness of emerging trends and industry developments

You hold a degree in Audio Engineering, Sound Technology, Acoustics, Audiovisual Production, or a related field, and can demonstrate significant experience in a similar role within the live events, entertainment, broadcast, touring, or audiovisual industry. You have a strong technical background in professional audio systems and proven experience leading teams, managing resources, and delivering high-quality audio solutions in demanding operational environments. A minimum of 5 years of experience in a senior audio engineering, audio management, or technical leadership role is required. Equivalent combinations of education and professional experience will also be considered.

Hard Skills

Advanced knowledge of professional audio systems, live sound reinforcement, signal processing, and audio networking. Expertise in the deployment, operation, optimization, and troubleshooting of large-scale audio systems. Proficiency with digital mixing consoles, audio processing platforms, and audio network protocols (Dante, AES67, AVB or equivalent). Ability to coordinate technical, logistical, equipment, and human resources while meeting project deadlines and operational objectives. Strong understanding of equipment lifecycle management, maintenance planning, inventory control, and health & safety regulations. Technical English proficiency.

Soft Skills

Strong leadership and team management abilities, with the capacity to motivate and develop high-performing teams. Excellent customer service and stakeholder management skills, ensuring strong relationships with clients, suppliers, and technical partners. Ability to work independently, make informed decisions, and resolve complex technical and operational challenges. Excellent organizational skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities in fast-paced environments. Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to interact professionally with clients, management teams, and technical personnel. Proactive, solution-oriented mindset with a commitment to quality, continuous improvement, and operational excellence.