Project Manager - Events & Exhibitions

Viola Communications; Abu Dhabi Emirate; On-site; AED 180,000 - 280,000; Full time

Job summary

Viola Communications in Abu Dhabi is seeking an experienced Project Manager to lead events and exhibition projects from concept to handover. You will oversee planning, budgeting, supplier coordination, client communication and on-site delivery to ensure on-time, within-budget delivery that meets quality standards.

The role requires 7-9 years of experience in managing medium to large events, strong knowledge of AV/graphics production, and the ability to manage multiple projects with diverse teams

Qualifications

• Engineering background with 7-9 years’ experience in managing events.
• Awareness of event permits, venue approvals, fire and life safety requirements, and municipality requirements.
• Ability to source materials, fabrication, AV, printing, transport, manpower, and equipment quickly.
• Ability to work with multicultural teams and clients from different backgrounds.
• Ability to manage night shifts, restricted installation windows, strict handover deadlines, and simultaneous projects.

Responsibilities

• Manage the full project lifecycle, from planning and production to installation, event execution and dismantling.
• Develop project plans, timelines and schedules, ensuring milestones are met and risks are managed proactively.
• Coordinate with design, creative, production and site teams to ensure smooth project delivery.
• Prepare accurate Bills of Quantities (BOQs), develop budgets and monitor project costs, variations and profit margins.
• Act as the main point of contact for clients, providing updates, managing expectations and handling feedback, changes and approvals.
• Build strong client relationships to drive satisfaction and repeat business.

Skills

Event management

Permits & safety awareness

Sourcing & procurement

Multicultural teamwork

Night shifts & deadlines

Job description

At Viola, we are looking for an experienced Project Manager to lead events and exhibition projects from concept to handover. The role covers planning, budgeting, supplier coordination, client communication and on-site delivery. The successful candidate will have strong technical knowledge of graphics and audio-visual production and will ensure every project is delivered on time, within budget and to the client's quality standards.

Key Responsibilities:

• Manage the full project lifecycle, from planning and production to installation, event execution and dismantling.
• Develop project plans, timelines and schedules, ensuring milestones are met and risks are managed proactively.
• Coordinate with design, creative, production and site teams to ensure smooth project delivery.
• Prepare accurate Bills of Quantities (BOQs), develop budgets and monitor project costs, variations and profit margins.
• Act as the main point of contact for clients, providing updates, managing expectations and handling feedback, changes and approvals.
• Build strong client relationships to drive satisfaction and repeat business.

Qualifications & Skills:

• Engineering Background with 7-9 years’ experience in managing both medium and large events.
• Awareness of applicable event permits, venue approvals, fire and life safety requirements, and municipality requirements, depending on the project and location.
• Ability to source materials, fabrication, AV, printing, transport, manpower, and equipment quickly.
• Ability to work with multicultural teams and clients from different backgrounds.
• Ability to manage night shifts, restricted installation windows, strict handover deadlines, and simultaneous projects.

At Viola Communications, we pride ourselves on serving clients from diverse backgrounds and with a vast range of experiences. We are dedicated to fostering a team of exceptional individuals who bring unique perspectives created by their different life paths. With representation from over 20 nationalities across our business units, we are an Equal Opportunity Employer that values and cultivates cultural diversity among our employees. We recognize and appreciate the exceptional strengths and experiences that each person brings, and we believe that by embracing differences, we can inspire and generate remarkable ideas collectively. Our commitment to diversity and inclusion not only aligns with our moral compass but also reinforces Viola's strength as a whole.

We appreciate all applications received. Please note that only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.