Head of Operations (EHO001)

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

Job summary

A global events company seeks a Head of Operations in Riyadh. This critical role involves building the operational foundation for large projects, managing logistics, procurement, and compliance in the dynamic events industry. Ideal candidates will possess over 12 years of experience and strong local regulatory knowledge, with an ability to manage complex stakeholder relationships.

Qualifications

• 12+ years in events operations or agency operations in Saudi Arabia or GCC.
• Proven track record in managing multi-supplier ecosystems.
• Strong knowledge of KSA regulations.

Responsibilities

• Set up and manage the operational infrastructure for the agency.
• Oversee procurement, logistics, and on-site coordination.
• Build internal processes for visibility and cost control.

Skills

Operational Excellence

Vendor Management

Procurement

Logistics Coordination

Crisis Management

Education

Bachelor's degree in relevant field

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