Head of Events - Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates - Abu Dhabi Airports

Description

The Head of Events & Operations is responsible for the strategic planning, execution, and operational oversight of all events, corporate functions, and brand activations for AD Airports. The role also leads key operational functions within the Marketing, Brand and Communications department, including governance, audits, policy and procedure management, budget oversight, and asset management.

This is a senior, cross-functional leadership role requiring strong expertise in event management, project management, operational excellence, stakeholder engagement, and team leadership. The position works closely with senior leadership, internal teams, external agencies, vendors, and international partners to deliver high-impact events aligned with AD Airports' strategic objectives and brand positioning.

Responsibilities

Strategic Planning & Execution

• Develop, manage, and deliver the annual events and activations calendar aligned with AD Airports' strategic objectives.
• Partner with the VP of Marketing, Brand and Communications and senior stakeholders to deliver end-to-end event management solutions.
• Create and implement comprehensive event strategies and plans from concept through execution.
• Ensure all events and corporate functions consistently reflect AD Airports' brand identity.

Event Execution & Coordination

• Lead the end-to-end delivery of corporate events, conferences, exhibitions, product launches, and brand activations.
• Plan and manage trade delegations, roadshows, and international events in collaboration with embassies, business agencies, and consultants.
• Work closely with marketing, brand, and communications teams to ensure consistent messaging and branding across all events.

Stakeholder Management & Collaboration

• Act as the primary liaison with internal and external senior stakeholders to align event objectives, timelines, and budgets.
• Collaborate with department heads to develop event strategies that support business goals.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with embassies, local and global agencies, and industry partners to support international participation.

Agency & Budget Management

• Lead procurement, appointment, and management of third-party agencies and suppliers.
• Ensure cost control, quality standards, and timely delivery across all events.
• Manage event budgets, ensuring cost efficiency, timely utilisation, and optimal brand impact.

Department Operations & Governance

• Oversee operational governance for the Marketing, Brand and Communications department, including:
  • Policy and procedure development and compliance
  • Addressing audit findings and risk management gaps
  • Digital and physical asset management, inventory control, and documentation
  • Budget planning, tracking, and reporting in coordination with Finance and Procurement
• Standardise and streamline workflows, documentation, and reporting across team functions.

Monitoring, Reporting & Continuous Improvement

• Monitor market trends, competitor activity, and emerging tools to maintain brand relevance.
• Prepare post-event reports, evaluate effectiveness, and provide insights to senior management.
• Track event KPIs, timelines, and budgets to ensure delivery to the highest standards.

Project Management & Leadership

• Assume full project management responsibility for event programmes.
• Track progress, proactively identify risks, and resolve issues or delays.
• Ensure a coordinated approach across internal teams and external partners.

Other Duties

• Perform additional tasks as assigned by the reporting manager.

Requirements & Skills

Education & Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Event Management, Marketing, or a related field.

Experience

• Minimum of 10 years' experience in event planning and delivery.
• At least 5 years in a leadership or senior management role.

Skills & Competencies

• Strong project management and organisational skills with the ability to manage multiple complex initiatives simultaneously.
• Proven experience managing budgets, vendors, agencies, and large-scale event logistics.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and stakeholder management skills.
• Strong understanding of branding, strategic event planning, and execution.
• Proficiency in event management tools and software.
• Demonstrated leadership capability with experience managing and coordinating cross-functional teams.