inD is a regional leader in B2B exhibitions and events with a team of over 1,000 colleagues operating across the Middle East, South Asia, Africa - and beyond.  

As a partnership between Informa PLC, the world's leading B2B live events organisation, and DWTC, the region's foremost business enabler and global events powerhouse, inD brings together unparalleled expertise and regional leadership.  

A subsidiary of Informa PLC, a publicly listed company on the London Stock Exchange, inD combines international scale and industry-leading knowledge with a strong portfolio of large-scale B2B event intellectual property. 

inD (pronounced "indee") brings together over 40 major B2B event brands spanning high-growth sectors including Healthcare (WHX Dubai), Energy (Middle East Energy), Aviation (Dubai Airshow), Food & Beverage (Gulfood), Technology (GITEX GLOBAL), and Information Security (GISEC GLOBAL).  

This role is based in our Dubai Office - One Central Tower.

Role Overview
We are seeking an Operations Manager (Outdoor Operations) to join our Aerospace Portfolio team in Dubai. This is a specialist role requiring deep expertise in outdoor infrastructure, temporary structures, power distribution, aircraft operations, and contractor management—representing some of the most technically complex and highest-risk aspects of aerospace event delivery.

This role offers a unique opportunity to build expertise across two of the region's most prestigious aerospace events. Starting with MEBAA Show 2026—the hub of business aviation featuring the largest static aircraft display and generating up to USD 1 billion in deals—you will develop critical event-specific knowledge before scaling up to Dubai Airshow 2027, one of the world's largest aerospace exhibitions.

You will play a vital role in strengthening operational resilience, reducing risk, and ensuring the continued success of our Aerospace Portfolio as we deliver exceptional experiences for exhibitors, visitors, and stakeholders.

Key Responsibilities
Outdoor Infrastructure & Temporary Structures

• Oversee the design, installation, and management of outdoor event infrastructure, including temporary structures, pavilions, and exhibition spaces.
• Ensure all structures comply with safety regulations, engineering standards, and local authority requirements
• Coordinate with contractors and suppliers to deliver high-quality installations on time and within budget

Power Distribution & Utilities

• Manage complex power distribution systems across outdoor event sites
• Coordinate with utility providers and electrical contractors to ensure reliable power supply
• Implement contingency plans for power failures and emergency situations

Aircraft Operations Management

• Oversee static aircraft displays, including positioning, security, and safety protocols
• Coordinate with aircraft operators, owners, and aviation authorities
• Manage airside operations in compliance with aviation regulations and safety standards

Contractor & Vendor Management

• Lead relationships with multiple contractors, suppliers, and service providers
• Negotiate contracts, monitor performance, and ensure delivery against agreed specifications
• Conduct regular site inspections and quality assurance checks

Risk Management & Safety

• Identify and mitigate operational risks associated with outdoor aerospace events
• Develop and implement comprehensive safety plans and emergency response procedures
• Ensure compliance with health, safety, and environmental regulations

Event Delivery

• Work closely with cross-functional teams including Sales, Marketing, Event Content, and Customer Experience
• Manage operational timelines, budgets, and resource allocation
• Provide on-site leadership during event build-up, live show, and breakdown phases

Essential Requirements

Technical Expertise

• Proven experience managing outdoor event operations, preferably within aerospace, aviation, or large-scale B2B exhibitions
• Strong understanding of temporary structures, power distribution systems, and outdoor infrastructure
• Knowledge of aircraft handling, airside operations, and aviation safety protocols
• Familiarity with contractor management and procurement processes

Skills & Competencies

• Exceptional project management skills with ability to manage multiple workstreams simultaneously
• Strong problem-solving abilities and capacity to make decisions under pressure
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills
• Financial acumen with experience managing operational budgets
• Attention to detail with commitment to safety and quality standards

Experience

• Minimum 5-7 years' experience in event operations, with at least 3 years in outdoor or aerospace events
• Demonstrated experience managing complex, high-risk operational environments
• Track record of successful contractor and vendor management
• Experience working in the Middle East region is advantageous

Desirable Requirements

• Experience with MEBAA Show, Dubai Airshow, or similar aerospace exhibitions
• Knowledge of UAE regulations and local authority requirements
• Relevant certifications in project management, health & safety, or event management
• Multilingual capabilities (English essential; Arabic advantageous)

inD is a venture that represents the future of B2B events - combining local market leadership with international scale and expertise. inD offers the unique opportunity to work with world-class B2B event brands while being at the forefront of the region's rapid economic growth and Dubai's transformation into a global IP and knowledge hub. 

inD is not just participating in the industry's evolution, it's actively shaping it. With strong financial backing, ambitious growth targets and a portfolio of market-leading brands, inD represents an exceptional opportunity to build your career in one of the world's most dynamic business environments. 

Colleague experience is very important at inD. You will be joining a supportive, diverse and ambitious team that welcomes candidates from all backgrounds.