Job Description

Contract Duration:

12 months - renewable upon mutual agreement

Role Purpose

The Execution & Operations Manager is responsible for ensuring the seamless implementation of Dubai SME initiatives. This role bridges strategy and delivery by overseeing project execution, operational planning, and performance tracking. Through effective cross-functional coordination, timeline management, and reporting, the Manager ensures programs are delivered on time, within scope, and aligned with Dubai SME's strategic objectives.

Core Responsibilities

1. Program Execution Oversight

Manage timelines, activity trackers, and deliverables across SME programs and workstreams. Monitor day-to-day progress and promptly escalate risks or blockers. Coordinate with internal teams, external partners, and vendors to ensure smooth execution. Lead initiative-level reporting, documentation, and compliance processes.

2. Operational Planning & Control

Develop and maintain SOPs, workflows, and operational frameworks for programs. Support budgeting, procurement processes, and contract management in coordination with relevant units. Design and manage dashboards for real-time performance tracking and reporting.

3. Risk & Issue Management

Identify and mitigate delivery risks throughout project lifecycles. Troubleshoot and resolve operational bottlenecks during program rollout. Capture lessons learned and update institutional playbooks for continuous improvement.

4. Quality Assurance & Process Optimization

Conduct audits and health checks to ensure consistent program quality. Recommend and implement process improvements to enhance efficiency and reliability. Standardize operational processes for repeatable program cycles.

Qualifications

Education

Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Project Management, Engineering, or a related field (required). Professional certifications (e.g., PMP, Agile, Lean Six Sigma) preferred.

Experience

6-10 years in operations, program delivery, or project management (public or private sector). Prior experience in the UAE or GCC within the SME, entrepreneurship, or related ecosystem (mandatory). Demonstrated success managing multiple projects with cross-functional stakeholders. Proven track record implementing SOPs, reporting frameworks, and issue-resolution systems.

Technical Skills & Competencies

Strong expertise in operational planning, timeline management, and dashboard/reporting tools. Knowledge of procurement processes, budgeting workflows, and compliance protocols. High attention to detail with a problem-solving and delivery-focused mindset. Strong organizational and coordination skills across teams and partners. Resilience under pressure with ability to create clarity in complex delivery environments.
Job Type: Contract
Contract length: 12 months

Pay: AED20,000.00 - AED25,000.00 per month