Head of Operations

Foreground LLC; Riyadh; On-site; SAR 300,000 - 400,000; Full time

Job summary

A global events organization in Riyadh is seeking a Head of Operations to set up and manage operational infrastructures for large-scale projects across Saudi Arabia. The ideal candidate will have over 12 years of experience in events operations and project logistics, a proven track record in managing multi-supplier ecosystems, and strong knowledge of compliance protocols. Bilingual proficiency in English and Arabic is preferred.

Qualifications

• 12+ years in events operations, project logistics, or agency operations.
• Proven track record managing multi-supplier ecosystems.
• Strong knowledge of KSA regulations and compliance protocols.

Responsibilities

• Set up and manage the operational infrastructure in Saudi Arabia.
• Oversee procurement, logistics, and on-site coordination.
• Build internal processes for visibility and cost control.
• Manage relationships with legal counsel and government entities.
• Collaborate with project managers for event delivery.
• Lead crisis response planning and issue resolution.

Skills

Event logistics planning

Project management

Multi-supplier ecosystems

Regulatory compliance

Bilingual (English and Arabic)

Job description

Foreground is partnering with a global events company to recruit a logistics‑savvy, systems‑oriented, and execution‑obsessed Head of Operations , based in Riyadh. This is a mission‑critical role that ensures the operational foundation is set up to support large‑scale projects across Saudi Arabia, balancing agility with compliance, and creativity with structure.

Reporting to the Country Director and collaborating with Finance, Production, HR, and Legal, the Head of Operations will oversee resourcing, vendor contracts, local licensing, supply chain processes, and internal SOP development.

Key Responsibilities

• Set up and manage the operational infrastructure for the agency in Saudi Arabia, including staffing models, office logistics, vendor frameworks, and resourcing plans.
• Oversee procurement, logistics, warehousing, transport, and on‑site coordination across all live projects.
• Build internal processes, templates, and reporting tools that support visibility, cost control, and operational excellence.
• Manage relationships with legal counsel, PROs, and government entities to ensure permits, visas, and regulatory matters are in order.
• Collaborate closely with project managers and production teams to ensure seamless event delivery from brief to breakdown.
• Lead crisis response planning and real‑time issue resolution for operational challenges.

Ideal Profile

• 12+ years in events operations, project logistics, or agency operations in Saudi Arabia or the wider GCC.
• Proven track record in managing multi‑supplier ecosystems, event logistics planning, and high‑volume delivery environments.
• Strong knowledge of KSA regulations, event permitting, labor laws, and compliance protocols.
• Bilingual preferred, fluent in English and Arabic.