Associate Director – Main Contracting

Location: Dubai, United Arab Emirates

WHO IS DXB LIVE

DXB LIVE is the Experiential Marketing and Event Services Agency of Dubai World Trade Centre a full-spectrum powerhouse for event management, production, and delivery. With creative vision, technical excellence, and operational precision, DXB LIVE brings to life a wide range of world-class events, from exhibitions and conferences to national celebrations, international festivals, immersive brand activations, and exclusive, high-end weddings.

Our in-house capabilities span design, build, technology, and logistics allowing us to execute at scale and deliver exceptional experiences across every format. As we expand our global footprint, we continue to forge strong alliances with leading international event organizations, positioning DXB LIVE among the world's premier event service providers.

EMPOWERING PEOPLE, INSPIRING TALENT: TOGETHER, WE MAKE AMAZING HAPPEN!

WHAT'S THE ROLE

Join DXB LIVE and play a pivotal role in shaping the future of the exhibition and events industry across the GCC. As Associate Director – Main Contracting, you will spearhead business growth by securing major exhibition contracts, developing strategic client partnerships and expanding DXB LIVE's regional market presence. Working at the intersection of commercial success and operational excellence, you will lead initiatives that position DXB LIVE as the preferred main contractor for world-class exhibitions and events.

This is an exciting opportunity for a commercially driven and relationship-focused leader to build and grow a strong portfolio of exhibition organizers, drive sustainable revenue growth and oversee the successful delivery of high-profile projects from inception to completion. You will collaborate with internal stakeholders and industry partners to create exceptional client experiences, strengthen the DXB LIVE brand and contribute to the continued growth and success of one of the region's leading service providers.

WHAT DOES THE ROLE INVOLVE

Tasks and Responsibilities

Identify, develop and secure new business opportunities with exhibition organisers across local, regional and international markets, driving the growth of DXB LIVE's Main Contracting portfolio.
Establish and maintain strong relationships with key decision-makers, industry stakeholders and strategic partners to enhance market presence and generate long-term business opportunities.
Achieve assigned revenue and profitability targets through effective business development, account management and commercial planning.
Lead high-value tenders, proposals, presentations and contract negotiations, ensuring commercially competitive and compelling client solutions.
Analyse market trends, competitor activity and emerging opportunities to support strategic growth and strengthen DXB LIVE's position within the GCC exhibitions sector.
Provide executive oversight for the successful delivery of contracted projects, ensuring all client commitments are fulfilled on time, within budget and to the highest standards of quality.
Collaborate closely with Production, Project Management and external partners to ensure seamless project execution and exceptional client experiences.
Act as a senior point of contact for key clients, proactively managing relationships and resolving issues to maximise customer satisfaction and retention.
Monitor commercial performance, project outcomes and operational delivery, implementing corrective actions where required to achieve business objectives.
Ensure compliance with all DXB LIVE, DWTC and relevant regulatory policies, procedures and governance requirements.
Oversee the accuracy of sales pipelines, contract records, forecasts and performance reports to support informed decision-making and business planning.
Develop and manage annual business plans, budgets and key performance indicators, providing regular updates and recommendations to senior leadership.
Lead, mentor and develop team members, fostering a culture of accountability, collaboration and high performance.
Champion continuous improvement initiatives that enhance operational efficiency, client service and commercial effectiveness.
Drive innovation and best practice throughout the Main Contracting function, ensuring DXB LIVE remains the partner of choice for exhibition organisers across the region.
Represent DXB LIVE at industry events, networking forums and client engagements, strengthening brand awareness and market influence.

WHAT DO WE OFFER

Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package.
Opportunities for professional development and career growth.
Collaborative work environment within a prestigious event company.

WHAT YOU NEED IS:

Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Marketing, Engineering, Project Management or a related discipline.
Professional certifications in Project Management, Commercial Management or Business Development would be highly advantageous.
Minimum of 8–12 years experience within the exhibitions, events or main contracting industry, including proven success in securing large-scale exhibitions and developing strategic organiser partnerships.
Demonstrated track record of delivering revenue growth and achieving ambitious commercial targets in a competitive market.
Strong commercial acumen with advanced negotiation, tender management and contract administration expertise.
In-depth knowledge of exhibition main contracting, event delivery methodologies and operational best practices.
A well-established network within the exhibitions and events industry across the UAE and GCC markets is highly advantageous.
Exceptional client relationship management skills with the ability to influence and engage senior-level stakeholders.
Strong analytical and strategic planning capabilities, with experience identifying market opportunities and driving business growth.
Excellent presentation, communication and interpersonal skills, with the confidence to represent the organisation at executive level.
Proven leadership capability, with experience managing, coaching and developing high-performing teams.
Strong financial awareness, including budgeting, forecasting and performance management.
Proficiency in CRM platforms, Microsoft Office applications and commercial reporting tools.
Proven ability to manage multiple priorities while maintaining accuracy and attention to detail.
Commercially driven, results-oriented and adaptable within a fast-paced, dynamic environment.
Knowledge of sustainability principles, industry regulations and emerging market trends is desirable.
Demonstrated professionalism, integrity and delivering exceptional client experiences.

Disclaimer

The duties and responsibilities outlined are not a exhaustive and may be amended from time to time. Additional responsibilities may be assigned within the scope of the role as required by business needs.

Associate Director Main Contracting