Director of Operations & Development (Abu Dhabi)

About the role

The Director of Operations & Development will design, implement and continuously improve the organisation's operational framework, turning strategic priorities into disciplined execution. Acting like a lean COO, the role is hands‑on at launch, establishing core workflows, project management disciplines, performance dashboards and budget controls.

Key responsibilities

• Establish and manage the overall operating model, governance rhythms and scalable processes.
• Lead the implementation of operational tools, project trackers, implementation plans and accountability mechanisms.
• Develop and maintain management dashboards, KPIs and regular performance review meetings.
• Coordinate annual operational planning, budgeting, expenditure monitoring and resource allocation.
• Oversee cross‑functional collaboration, ensure clear ownership of initiatives and drive timely delivery.
• Identify operational gaps, recommend improvements and introduce best‑practice tools and technology.

Required profile

• 15+ years of senior operational experience, including responsibility for PMO, programme management or organisational performance.
• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Management, Operations, Finance, Engineering or related field; MBA or Master’s advantageous.
• Proven track record of building operational processes, performance frameworks and managing multi‑project portfolios.
• Experience managing budgets, financial performance and multidisciplinary senior stakeholders.
• Ability to thrive in fast‑growing, evolving environments, preferably within government, semi‑government or media sectors.

Required skills

• Operational Leadership
• Portfolio & Programme Management
• Project Execution
• Performance Management & KPIs
• Organisational Build‑Out
• Budget & Financial Management
• Process Design & Improvement
• Team Leadership
• Stakeholder Management
• Executive Reporting & Governance