About the Kings League
Created and organized by Kosmos, the Kings League is a sports-entertainment hybrid that has reinvented football for a new generation. With a disruptive 7-a-side format, digital-native approach, and teams led by content creators, it blends sport, gaming, and entertainment in a unique and innovative way. Following extraordinary success in Spain, the league is expanding into the MENA region — and we’re seeking an experienced Operations Director to lead all operational strategy and execution for Kings League MENA.
About the role
As Operations Director – Kings League MENA, you will be responsible for building and overseeing the entire operational framework for Kings League activities across the Middle East. Based in Riyadh, you will lead all aspects of live event production, logistics, venue management, staffing, regulatory compliance, and regional vendor partnerships. A key responsibility will include the setup and coordination of venues in collaboration with KL Global and all relevant departments, ensuring seamless execution and alignment across all stakeholders.
You will play a critical leadership role in establishing the Kings League as a leading entertainment property in the region, ensuring that all events and operations reflect the brand’s high standards, cultural relevance, and innovative spirit.
Key Responsibilities
- Regional Operations Leadership: Define and execute the operational strategy for Kings League MENA, aligning with global KPIs, timelines, and brand objectives.
- End-to-End Event Oversight: Lead planning and execution of all live and broadcast events, including venue sourcing, production logistics, vendor coordination, security, and on-site delivery.
- Team Management & Structure: Build and manage the local operations team, setting clear responsibilities, workflows, and performance expectations.
- Vendor & Partner Management: Identify, contract, and oversee suppliers, venues, and logistics partners. Ensure consistent delivery aligned with quality, cost, and timeline goals.
- Regulatory & Compliance: Ensure all events and operations comply with Saudi regulations, licensing, and health and safety requirements.
- Budget Ownership: Develop and control operating budgets. Track expenditures, forecast costs, and deliver efficiencies without compromising quality.
- Stakeholder Engagement: Serve as the operational point of contact for internal departments (content, marketing, commercial), sponsors, partners, and government authorities.
- Fan Experience: Oversee operational aspects of fan experience, collaborating with ticketing, hospitality, and access management departments, ensuring world-class execution.
- Continuous Improvement: Implement operational systems and reporting tools to streamline delivery and measure performance. Apply learnings from each event to optimize future operations.
Requirements
- 10+ years of experience in operations management, ideally within sports, entertainment, live events, or media in the MENA region.
- Deep understanding of regional regulations, vendor ecosystems, and cultural context in Saudi Arabia and the GCC.
- Proven track record managing large teams and high-profile events.
- Fluent in English; Arabic proficiency is highly preferred.
- Strong leadership, problem-solving, negotiation, and crisis-management skills.
- Passion for innovation in sports, entertainment, and live experiences.
- Willingness to travel internationally as needed
Diversity & Inclusion Commitment.
Kings League embraces diversity in all forms. We are committed to creating an inclusive, respectful, and dynamic work environment where people from all backgrounds can thrive. If you meet the role criteria and are excited to help shape the future of sport in the MENA region, we want to hear from you.