Head of Programming and Events UAE Expo

YOSH; Abu Dhabi; On-site; AED 200,000 - 300,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading cultural organization in the UAE is seeking an experienced Head of Programming to design and deliver impactful event programming for Expos. The role blends strategic vision with operational excellence, requiring strong stakeholder management and cultural fluency. The successful candidate will curate programs that showcase the UAE's story, while leading a team to ensure high-quality execution of all events. This exciting leadership position promises to make a lasting impact on global cultural engagements.

Qualifications

• 7 to 10 years of experience in managing international cultural programs or large-scale exhibitions.
• Experience in multi-stakeholder programs ideally in government or global settings.
• Prior experience working in or with the UAE is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Develop and maintain the UAE Expo Office's master programming strategy.
• Oversee the design and delivery of programming calendars and cultural activations.
• Lead all aspects of programming operations from concept to delivery.

Skills

Strategic thinking

Stakeholder management

Fluency in English

Fluency in Arabic

Content design

Education

Bachelor's degree in Cultural Management

Higher education in Events or International Relations

Job description

Overview

We are seeking an experienced and visionary Head of Programming to lead the design planning and delivery of all event programming across its multi-Expo portfolio. This senior leadership role will shape and execute a comprehensive programming strategy that brings the UAEs participation to life across World Expos and international platforms.

The successful candidate will develop tailored programs for each Expo curating impactful cultural thematic diplomatic and strategic engagements that showcase the UAEs story strengthen global partnerships and create meaningful experiences for diverse audiences. From National Day celebrations and institutional events to thought leadership forums and cultural activations the Head of Programming will ensure every touchpoint reflects the UAEs values ambitions and global presence.

Blending creative vision with operational excellence this role requires strong cultural fluency international event expertise and the ability to translate strategy into memorable high-impact experiences. The Head of Programming will transform the UAE Pavilion into a dynamic platform for connection collaboration and storytelling - aligning closely with host Expo goals while advancing national priorities and strategic partnerships.

This is an exciting opportunity for a strategic leader who thrives in complex global environments and is passionate about delivering world-class programs that leave a lasting legacy.

Key Responsibilities

Strategy & Planning

• Develop and maintain the UAE Expo Offices master programming strategy in alignment with office-wide goals and long-term participation strategy.
• Lead the development of Expo-specific programming frameworks that reflect the UAEs thematic positioning engagement priorities and soft power objectives.
• Ensure programming is strategically linked to the pavilions purpose and contributes to uncovering new value narratives and partnerships for the UAE.

Program Design & Development

• Oversee the design and delivery of robust programming calendars including National Day celebrations talks performances thematic weeks institutional engagements and cultural activations.
• Translate Expo-wide opportunities into meaningful UAE-led programs that reinforce the UAEs leadership in innovation diplomacy and global collaboration.
• Collaborate with operations communications and guest experience teams to ensure seamless integration across pavilion workstreams.

Partnerships & Stakeholder Engagement

• Identify and cultivate strategic partnerships with UAE institutions international organizations knowledge entities and cultural stakeholders.
• Serve as the principal programming liaison to UAE government bodies Expo organizers and external partners.
• Ensure that the pavilion becomes a trusted platform for high-level engagement with the host nation and priority audiences.
• Facilitate the meaningful integration of private sector and institutional partners into the programming offer.

Delivery & Operations

• Lead all aspects of programming operations from concept to delivery including timeline planning creative briefs and content curation.
• Ensure programs meet global standards for accessibility inclusion and cultural relevance.
• Provide on-site leadership and quality assurance during major events and VIP engagements.

Measurement & Legacy

• Define and track KPIs to measure programming reach quality and strategic impact.
• Embed knowledge-sharing and legacy-building into the design and documentation of programming.
• Produce post-Expo reviews and impact reports to capture lessons learned and inform future participations.

Leadership & Budget

• Lead the procurement contracting and oversight of agencies and partners delivering programming content.
• Manage the programming budget and ensure efficient high-impact delivery.
• Supervise and mentor cross-functional teams working on content and programming.

Key Skills & Qualifications

Education and Experience

• Bachelors degree or higher in Cultural Management Events International Relations or a related field.
• 7 to 10 years of experience in curating or managing international cultural programs public events or large-scale exhibitions.
• Experience delivering multi-stakeholder programs ideally in government or global event settings.
• Fluency in English and Arabic UAE National candidates are preferred.
• Prior experience working in or with the UAE is preferred.

Skills and Abilities

• Strategic thinker with the ability to connect programming to broader national objectives and Expo-wide goals.
• Demonstrated ability to design content that speaks to local and global audiences alike.
• Excellent stakeholder management skills including experience in high-level institutional and diplomatic settings.
• Ability to manage multiple programs simultaneously under tight timelines and shifting priorities.
• Strong written verbal and presentation skills; confident representing the UAE in diverse settings.
• Familiarity with hybrid and digital programming formats is a plus.

Other

• Familiarity with Expo formats international events or pavilion operations is a plus.
• Willingness to relocate or travel internationally for extended periods.