Overview

The Senior Operations Manager supports the Head of Operations in overseeing daily operations within the department, ensuring the smooth execution of both arena and client-based events. This role involves ensuring that large-scale (Premium) events meet established timelines, budgets, and quality standards. Responsibilities include managing suppliers, adhering to arena operating procedures, and regularly reporting progress to the Department Head.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist the Head of Operations with event deliveries and departmental KPIs.
• Oversee the daily operations of venue event management and housekeeping departments.
• Support corporate initiatives including departmental audits, BCM programs, supplier rate card negotiations, and long-term agreements.
• Aid in the planning and management of annual CAPEX and OPEX budgets.
• Collaborate with various departments to respond to event RFPs, covering operational requirements and contributing to strategic decisions, event layout design, and overlays.
• Work with the Project team on event planning and budgeting, obtaining competitive quotes, and brainstorming efficient delivery models.
• Manage operations for both arena and client-based events, including staging, housekeeping, technical, and production aspects.
• Maintain and manage venue technical equipment per O&M manuals and industry standards.
• Plan and execute arena events from build-up through live dates and dismantling phases, ensuring client requirements are met.
• Coordinate manpower needs with suppliers for each event, from planning through post-event reporting and budget reconciliation.
• Ensure all operations comply with UAE health and safety standards and arena best practices.
• Control and monitor the event operations budget, ensuring fair procurement processes in line with event budgets.
• Stay updated on supplier markets and industry innovations to utilize cutting-edge operational resources.
• Liaise with clients to establish relationships and ensure smooth communication of event-related operational information.
• Maintain and update departmental policies and procedures, implementing new ones as necessary.
• Contribute to the arena’s regional expansion strategy for sustainable growth.
• Perform other duties as assigned to support overall management responsibilities

Skills

Requirements

• Experience in an arena or entertainment industry, preferably in a technical department.
• Proficiency in AutoCAD, Sound Vision, and Vectorworks.
• Basic knowledge of AV networking.
• Strong teamwork and cross-departmental collaboration skills.
• Excellent project management skills with a deep understanding of event technical production and operations.
• Extensive experience with operation and production suppliers in Abu Dhabi and the region.
• Proven ability to manage third-party suppliers, consultants, and part-time staff.
• Knowledge of basic event health and safety regulations.
• Strong proofreading and review skills for contracts, technical riders, payment requests, etc.
• High personal motivation and a sense of urgency.
• Strong communication and relationship management skills.
• Exceptional organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Leadership and effective management abilities.
• Ability to multi-task in a fast-paced environment.
• Skilled in coordinating communication flow between staff, consultants, and senior management, with effective time management.

System Knowledge

• Luminex / Luminode
• Riedel Mediornet / Bolero
• L-Acoustics
• Bose
• Powersoft ArmoníaPlus
• Dante/AVB
• Novastar
• Blackmagic Design
• Barco Event Master
• BrightSign
• Crestron

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree
• 5+ years’ experience in event technical/production management
• Experience managing multiple projects simultaneously

Behaviors

• Proactive attitude
• Strong management and people skills
• Effective communication with a variety of internal and external stakeholders
• Commercial sensibility and general business acumen