Description:
ME-IN is a startup entering its growth phase. We have already delivered senior, invitation only events across Riyadh, Dubai and Abu Dhabi, and our audience expects every detail to be right. But getting the details right is only the start. We want our events to look and feel different from anything else on the regional circuit, and to stay with people long after they leave. Now we need someone to take ownership of how our events are delivered and build the operations to support a growing portfolio.
You will own event delivery from the first venue conversation to the final supplier invoice. The foundations are in place, but this is not a role where you simply follow a checklist. We want you to bring fresh ideas and creativity on how we run our events, and we will back them. You will have the freedom to work independently and make decisions, with the founders on hand for support, advice and guidance whenever you need it. The aim is to build the operations function together as we grow.
What you will do
Event delivery
- Own end to end logistics for each event, including venue, catering, staging, signage and production
- Build and manage the critical path, production schedule and run of show for every event
- Brief and manage AV and production partners, covering sound, lighting, screens, staging, presentations, live streaming and recording
- Work with our design partner to manage the preparation of holding slides and stage cues, walk on music.
- Design and Manage the ‘exhibition’ and ‘one-to-one meeting area.
On site
- Lead the build, rehearsals and technical checks, and sign off the room before doors open
- Run the event on the day, working with the AV team to manage stage changes, microphones, slides and any technical issues as they happen
- Manage registration desks, temporary staff, hosts and suppliers, and act as the main point of contact for the venue
- Manage and lead staffing and key deliverables for the on-site event team.
- Oversee the breakdown and make sure everything leaves the venue as agreed
Event experience and design
- Bring creative ideas to every event, from venue choice and room design to staging, lighting and the flow of the day
- Design moments that make our events memorable, whether that is a standout networking format, an unexpected venue or a small detail guests talk about afterwards
- Work with the content and marketing teams so every event has its own look, feel and identity
- Keep an eye on what the best events in the world are doing, and bring the best ideas back to the Gulf
Suppliers and budgets
- Source, negotiate and manage venues and suppliers across the GCC
- Own event budgets and keep delivery on cost without compromising the experience
- Handle post event wrap up, including supplier reconciliation, feedback and lessons learned
Speakers, delegates and VIPs
- Manage speaker and VIP logistics, covering travel, accommodation, briefings and hosting on the day
- Run delegate registration, badging and guest list management, working with the team to screen and approve attendees
- Make sure every guest, from first invitation to final session, has a seamless, high end experience
Sponsors and partners
- Deliver sponsor operational requirements, from branding and activations to hosted meetings and private sessions
- Work with the commercial team to make sure every sponsor commitment is delivered in full
Building the operations function
- Create the processes, templates and systems that let us run more events without dropping standards
- Build and maintain a trusted supplier network across Saudi Arabia and the UAE
What we are looking for
Ambition and confidence come first. We value drive above everything else, so if you have the hunger and the personality to own this role, we can help with the rest.
Beyond that, we are ideally looking for:
- A self starter who can work independently and remotely, and travel across the region for events
- At least 2 years of event operations or production experience, ideally with senior or invitation only conferences
- Experience delivering events in the GCC, with Saudi Arabia and the UAE particularly valued
- Excellent organisation and the ability to manage several events running in parallel
- Calm, professional and resourceful under pressure, especially on site
- A creative eye and a real interest in event design, with ideas on how to make a room feel special
- Hands on experience working with AV and production teams, and confidence running a live show from the side of the stage
- Strong supplier negotiation and budget management skills
- Polished communication with senior executives, speakers and sponsors
- Arabic is a plus, but not essential