Dubai, United Arab Emirates
With over 28 years of experience in the Middle East, particularly in Dubai, I have built a career across events, media, hospitality, design, manufacturing, and large-scale project delivery. My experience spans live events, brand activations, concerts, theatre productions, weddings, private events, television launches, exhibitions, cultural projects, and large-scale builds. Over the years, I have worked with regional and international brands, high-profile stakeholders, celebrities, suppliers, and multidisciplinary teams, delivering projects that require creativity, structure, commercial awareness, and calm under pressure. My career has evolved from hospitality and event management into senior project leadership and operations, with key projects including Expo 2020 temporary structures and overlay accommodation, as well as the Shindagha Museum project in Dubai. These experiences have strengthened my expertise in project delivery, stakeholder management, technical coordination, supplier management, compliance, fit-out, and operational planning. I am a firm believer that great projects are built on clear communication, strong teams, and practical problem-solving. My leadership style is fair but firm, hands-on when needed, and always focused on accountability, collaboration, and delivering work that people remember. Adaptable, solutions-driven, and commercially minded, I combine creative insight and operational discipline to help bring complex ideas to life.
Key Responsibilities 1. Driving Business Strategy & Growth * Develop and execute a growth-focused business strategy, identifying new revenue streams and partnerships. * Lead the agency’s business development efforts, working with the team in securing clients and expanding our market reach. * Oversee financial performance, including budgeting, cost control, and P&L management. 2. Overseeing Event Execution & Operational Efficiency * Ensure seamless end-to-end event planning, production, and execution. * Manage vendor and supplier relationships to guarantee top-tier service delivery. * Oversee procurement, logistics, security, and compliance for all events. * Implement process improvements to enhance efficiency and ensure smooth project execution. 3. Leading Client & Stakeholder Engagement * Act as the primary point of contact for key clients, ensuring relationships are nurtured and strengthened. * Lead client pitches, proposals, and high-level presentations, ensuring The Hanging House remains the go-to agency for premium events. * Work closely with government authorities and regulatory bodies to secure permits and ensure compliance with local laws. 4. Building & Managing a High-Performance Team * Lead and mentor a multidisciplinary team of event professionals, ensuring top performance. * Oversee recruitment, training, and professional development initiatives. * Foster a collaborative, creative, and high-energy culture that drives innovation. 5. Innovating & Adapting to Industry Trends * Stay ahead of emerging trends, technologies, and experiential marketing innovations. * Integrate AR, VR, AI, and sustainable solutions into our event strategies. * Develop and implement sustainability-driven initiatives for eco-friendly event production.
Developing Strong Client Relationships: Building key relationships with client decision-makers to understand their business needs. Act as the primary contact for key accounts, providing exceptional customer service. Collaboration and Integration: Work with cross-functional teams to deliver tailored solutions that meet client expectations. Monitor key account metrics and take actions to exceed targets. Leadership and Management: Lead contract negotiations and renewals, fostering long-term partnerships. Provide leadership to a team of 11 account managers, setting goals and fostering excellence. Effective Communication and Leadership: Utilize strong communication and presentation skills to convey value to clients. Motivate and inspire the team to exceed client expectations. Project Management: Manage multiple projects, ensuring they stay within budgets and timelines. Define project scopes, goals, and deliverables in alignment with organizational objectives. Project Execution and Quality Assurance: Develop comprehensive project plans, monitor progress, and track risks. Implement quality assurance processes to meet or exceed stakeholder expectations. Financial Management: Manage project budgets and expenses for financial sustainability. Conduct regular project status meetings and provide updates to stakeholders. Client Satisfaction and Repeat Business: Maintain effective client communication and proactively manage relationships. Ensure client satisfaction to encourage repeat business.
Supplier Selection and Management: - Develop and implement a robust supplier selection process for reliable and high-quality partnerships. - Negotiate contracts, pricing, and terms with suppliers to secure optimal value. - Maintain strong supplier relationships, addressing issues and seeking improvement. - Continuously evaluate supplier performance and explore enhancement opportunities. Procurement and Purchase Order Approval: - Oversee procurement, ensuring adherence to company policies and procedures. - Review and approve purchase orders (LPOs) for accuracy and compliance. - Collaborate with finance to manage budgets, cost control, and analysis. - Optimize inventory levels and minimize costs through effective strategies. Supplier Payments and Cash Flow Management: - Manage timely and accurate supplier payments. - Maintain healthy cash flows on projects, optimizing resources. - Collaborate with finance for effective cash flow forecasting and management. - Implement measures to mitigate financial risks and nurture positive vendor relationships. Team Management: - Lead and manage production teams for efficient workflow and productivity. - Provide guidance, mentorship, and performance evaluations. - Oversee administrative teams for smooth operations and effective communication. - Foster a positive work environment, promoting collaboration and growth. Quality Control and Client Relations: - Understand client requirements and ensure satisfaction. Implement quality control measures for high standards. Conduct regular inspections and audits to monitor compliance. Address client concerns promptly, maintaining strong relationships. Strategic Planning and Execution: Develop and execute long-term business strategies aligned with goals. Identify market trends, opportunities, and risks for informed decision-making. Collaborate with the Board of Directors to set policies, budgets, and targets. Monitor industry developments and adapt strategies accordingly.