Exhibition Director

Mandatory: Proven experience managing large-scale B2B exhibitions and conferences.The Event Director will be responsible for ensuring the continued growth, stakeholder satisfaction, and seamless delivery of one of the organization’s most politically complex and commercially significant exhibitions and conferences.This position has been designed as part of a succession plan, with a phased handover of full responsibility over 12 months. The successful candidate will play a pivotal role in driving the event’s strategic direction, commercial success, and long-term sustainability.Key ResponsibilitiesStrategic & Commercial LeadershipDevelop and implement the long-term strategic plan for the exhibition and its associated conferences, driving sustained revenue growth and market leadership.Identify and capitalize on new business opportunities, partnerships, and sponsorships to strengthen commercial performance.Oversee full P&L management, budgeting, forecasting, and reporting, ensuring financial targets are consistently achieved.Align event objectives with broader portfolio and organizational strategies to maximize market impact.Stakeholder & Government RelationsCultivate and manage high-level relationships with government entities, associations, and key industry stakeholders.Act as the principal liaison for regulatory, strategic, and political partners, ensuring compliance and fostering collaboration.Navigate complex political landscapes with professionalism, diplomacy, and strategic acumen.Operational ExcellenceLead the end-to-end planning, delivery, and post-event review process, ensuring operational excellence across all areas.Collaborate with sales, marketing, operations, and content teams to ensure cohesive and high-quality event execution.Oversee risk management, contingency planning, and quality assurance to guarantee smooth event delivery.Leadership & Team DevelopmentProvide strategic direction and leadership to a multidisciplinary event team.Mentor, develop, and motivate staff to achieve both individual and collective goals.Ensure a structured and effective 12-month handover process, maintaining continuity and performance throughout the transition.Foster a collaborative, innovative, and high-performing team culture.Market Intelligence & GrowthMonitor market trends, competitor activities, and emerging technologies to ensure the event remains relevant and competitive.Identify new markets, themes, and formats to expand the event’s reach and influence.Utilize insights and data to inform strategic decision-making and enhance event value propositions.Qualifications & ExperienceMinimum 10 years’ experience in large-scale exhibition and conference management, preferably in an international environment.Proven track record of managing high-profile, politically sensitive, or government-backed events.Strong commercial and financial acumen, including experience managing multi-million-dollar budgets.Demonstrated success in stakeholder management, contract negotiation, and partnership development.Experience leading cross-functional teams within complex organizational structures.Excellent communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills.Key CompetenciesStrategic and Analytical ThinkingCommercial and Financial ManagementStakeholder and Government RelationsLeadership and People DevelopmentPolitical and Cultural AwarenessOperational Excellence and Attention to DetailAdaptability and ResilienceNote: Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.