Gulf Multi Sport - General Manager
Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
Full timeOn-site
Job description
Role Purpose
The General Manager is responsible for leading Gulf Multi Sport’s overall strategy, operations, marketing and growth. This role oversees the planning and delivery of community and large-scale sporting events, ensuring they are executed to world-class standards while fostering strong relationships with stakeholders, sponsors, and the community. Reporting to the Group CEO, the General Manager drives business development, financial performance, and team leadership to ensure Gulf Multi Sport continues to play a central role in advancing the UAE’s sporting ecosystem.
Responsibilities
Strategic Vision & Business Growth
- Define and implement the annual event portfolio, balancing owned events with government and private enterprise initiatives.
- Identify and secure new business opportunities, partnerships, and sponsorships to drive sustainable growth.
- Develop long-term strategies that align with the Group’s vision and expand Gulf Multi Sport’s footprint in the region.
Event Operations & Delivery
- Oversee planning, logistics, and execution of multi-sport events, ensuring seamless operations across registration, venues, volunteers, timing services, safety, and risk management.
- Collaborate with marketing and communications to design and deliver campaigns that enhance awareness, drive participation, and maximise engagement.
- Ensure contingency and crisis management plans are in place and executed when required.
Marketing & Brand Development
- Partner with the Group Marketing Manager to plan and deliver marketing strategies and campaigns that strengthen brand awareness and drive participation across all Gulf Multi Sport events.
- Ensure marketing content and communications reflect the company’s brand standards and values across digital, social, and traditional platforms.
- Support the coordination of sponsor activations, event promotions, and media coverage to maximise engagement and visibility.
- Evaluate campaign effectiveness and collaborate on improvements that enhance overall event performance and community reach.
Financial & Commercial Management
- Develop and manage budgets, monitor revenues and expenses, and drive profitability while ensuring financial sustainability.
- Negotiate and secure sponsorships, funding, and supplier partnerships.
- Track and report on key performance indicators across events and the overall business.
Team Leadership & Development
- Lead, inspire, and develop a high-performing team, ensuring collaboration, inclusiveness, and accountability.
- Delegate effectively while maintaining oversight of deliverables and performance.
- Build a culture that reflects Gulf Multi Sport’s values and commitment to excellence in sport.
Community & Stakeholder Engagement
- Represent Gulf Multi Sport as a trusted partner to government entities, sponsors, sporting federations, and community organisations.
- Build strong networks across the sports industry and actively engage with local sporting communities without favour or bias.
- Champion inclusivity and accessibility in all event delivery.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in Sports Management, Business Administration, or Event Management preferred.
- Proven track record in sports event management, with experience leading large-scale events or government/private initiatives.
- Strong commercial and financial acumen with experience managing budgets and business growth.
- Demonstrated leadership skills with the ability to inspire, motivate, and manage diverse teams.
- Excellent interpersonal, negotiation, and stakeholder management skills.
- Ability to adapt quickly, solve problems effectively, and remain calm under pressure.
- Strong network within the sports, events, or government sectors in the UAE.
- Broad knowledge and experience in endurance and multi-sport events (running, cycling, triathlon).
- Passion for community engagement, inclusiveness, and active living.
- Valid UAE driver’s license.
Ideal Candidate
The ideal candidate is a visionary leader with a passion for sports and community. They combine strategic thinking with hands-on event knowledge, are commercially minded, and bring humility, adaptability, and strong networking ability. They thrive in dynamic environments and are motivated by delivering impactful events that inspire active lifestyles.