Business Development Manager

Job description

We are looking for an experienced Business Development Manager – Events to drive new business opportunities, build strategic client relationships, and secure event projects across the UAE.

The ideal candidate must have a strong background in the events industry, preferably within an Events Agency or Event Management Company, with proven experience developing business and securing projects in Abu Dhabi and/or Dubai.

Experience working with UAE government entities and developing business related to government events is mandatory for this role.

Key responsibilities

Identify and develop new business opportunities within the UAE events market.

Build and maintain relationships with potential and existing clients.

Identify opportunities with government, semi-government, corporate, and institutional organizations.

Develop and manage a strong pipeline of event-related opportunities.

Generate leads through networking, market research, referrals, industry relationships, and direct outreach.

Arrange and lead client meetings, presentations, and business discussions.

Understand client requirements and coordinate with internal teams to develop suitable event proposals and solutions.

Prepare and present commercial proposals, quotations, and pitches.

Negotiate commercial terms and support the business through the closing stage.

Maintain strong relationships with key decision-makers and stakeholders.

Work closely with event operations, production, creative, and management teams to ensure successful project handover.

Develop long-term strategic partnerships and identify opportunities for account growth.

Requirements

5+ years of relevant experience in business development / sales within the events industry.

Previous experience working for an Events Agency, Event Management Company, Experiential Agency, or similar organization.

Mandatory experience securing or developing business related to UAE government events or government entities.

Proven business development experience in Abu Dhabi and/or Dubai.

Demonstrated experience dealing with UAE government entities, authorities, semi-government organizations, or institutional clients.

Strong understanding of the UAE events market and business development environment.

Proven track record of generating leads, developing opportunities, pitching, negotiating, and closing event projects.

Strong existing network within the UAE events, government, corporate, or institutional sectors is highly preferred.

Excellent communication, presentation, negotiation, and relationship-building skills.

Ability to independently develop opportunities and convert relationships into business.

Preferred candidate profile

We are particularly interested in candidates who can demonstrate:

Previous employment with a reputable Events Agency / Event Management Company.

Experience working on government events in Abu Dhabi, Dubai, or elsewhere in the UAE.

Established professional relationships within UAE government or semi-government entities.

Experience with official ceremonies, government conferences, forums, exhibitions, national events, corporate events, or large-scale public-sector projects.

A proven ability to generate and close new event business.