Job Description

Client: Communication Advisory Firm 

Job: Project Director

Job type: Freelance position, with a possibility of turning permanent 

Location: Dubai or Riyadh

Roles & Responsibilities:

Our client is a leading strategic communications firm specializing in delivering high-profile events and public platforms globally. With a deep presence in the MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) industry, they are at the forefront of creating transformative moments that shape the global agenda.

The Project Director will take full ownership of the planning, management, and execution of high-profile projects and events. This role requires a seasoned leader who can coordinate cross-functional teams, manage high-stakes client relationships, and ensure the seamless delivery of projects. The ideal candidate will have deep expertise in the MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) industry, exceptional leadership skills, and the ability to deliver under pressure in a fast-paced global environment.

• Lead the end-to-end management of complex, high-profile projects, including defining project scope, objectives, budgets, timelines, and deliverables.
• Develop and implement project strategies that align with the company’s broader goals and client expectations, ensuring strategic impact and high-level client satisfaction.
• Act as the project owner, taking full accountability for successful execution, delivery, and outcome.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for high-profile clients, ensuring clear and consistent communication throughout the project lifecycle.
• Build and maintain strong client relationships, understanding their needs, and delivering solutions that exceed expectations
• Work closely with internal and external stakeholders, including clients, sponsors, vendors, and partners, to ensure all parties are aligned with the project goals.
• Lead, mentor, and manage cross-functional project teams, including project managers, logistics coordinators, creative teams, and other internal departments.
• Ensure that all team members understand their roles and responsibilities and are working collaboratively to meet project milestones and deadlines.
• Foster a culture of collaboration, excellence, and accountability within the project team.
• Identify potential risks and challenges that could impact project delivery and develop mitigation strategies to address them.
• Conduct post-project evaluations to assess project performance, client satisfaction, and key learnings.

Requirements & Qualifications: 

• Bachelor’s degree in Project Management, Event Management, Communications, Business, or a related field.
• Minimum of 10 years of experience in project management, event planning, or a related field, with at least 5 years in a senior leadership role.
• Extensive experience in managing large-scale, complex projects in the MICE industry, including high-profile conferences, forums, summits, or public events.
• Proven track record of managing client relationships at the highest levels and delivering projects that meet or exceed client expectations.Fluency in English is required; knowledge of French or other languages is an asset.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, PowerPoint, Word) and project management tools
• Familiarity with audiovisual production, stage management, and broadcast technologies is a plus.
• Willingness to travel frequently for event site visits, client meetings, and project execution, both domestically and internationally.
• Innovative thinker: Ability to bring fresh ideas to the table, particularly in developing new revenue streams and market opportunities.
• Client-focused: Skilled at building and maintaining strong relationships with key clients and stakeholders.
• Resilient and adaptable: Capable of managing multiple priorities in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.
• Travel: 50-60%