Job Summary

We are seeking an experienced and visionary Head of Programming to lead the design, planning, and delivery of all event programming across its multi-Expo portfolio. This senior leadership role will shape and execute a comprehensive programming strategy that brings the UAE’s participation to life across World Expos and international platforms.

The successful candidate will develop tailored programs for each Expo, curating impactful cultural, thematic, diplomatic, and strategic engagements that showcase the UAE’s story, strengthen global partnerships, and create meaningful experiences for diverse audiences. From National Day celebrations and institutional events to thought leadership forums and cultural activations, the Head of Programming will ensure every touchpoint reflects the UAE’s values, ambitions, and global presence.

Blending creative vision with operational excellence, this role requires strong cultural fluency, international event expertise, and the ability to translate strategy into memorable, high-impact experiences. The Head of Programming will transform the UAE Pavilion into a dynamic platform for connection, collaboration, and storytelling - aligning closely with host Expo goals while advancing national priorities and strategic partnerships.

This is an exciting opportunity for a strategic leader who thrives in complex, global environments and is passionate about delivering world-class programs that leave a lasting legacy.

Key Responsibilities

Strategy & Planning
• Develop and maintain the UAE Expo Office’s master programming strategy, in alignment with office-wide goals and long-term participation strategy.
• Lead the development of Expo-specific programming frameworks that reflect the UAE’s thematic positioning, engagement priorities, and soft power objectives.
• Ensure programming is strategically linked to the pavilion’s purpose and contributes to uncovering new value, narratives, and partnerships for the UAE.

Program Design & Development
• Oversee the design and delivery of robust programming calendars, including National Day celebrations, talks, performances, thematic weeks, institutional engagements, and cultural activations.
• Translate Expo-wide opportunities into meaningful UAE-led programs that reinforce the UAE’s leadership in innovation, diplomacy, and global collaboration.
• Collaborate with operations, communications, and guest experience teams to ensure seamless integration across pavilion workstreams.

Partnerships & Stakeholder Engagement
• Identify and cultivate strategic partnerships with UAE institutions, international organizations, knowledge entities, and cultural stakeholders.
• Serve as the principal programming liaison to UAE government bodies, Expo organizers, and external partners.
• Ensure that the pavilion becomes a trusted platform for high-level engagement with the host nation and priority audiences.
• Facilitate the meaningful integration of private sector and institutional partners into the programming offer.

Delivery & Operations
• Lead all aspects of programming operations from concept to delivery, including timeline planning, creative briefs, and content curation.
• Ensure programs meet global standards for accessibility, inclusion, and cultural relevance.
• Provide on-site leadership and quality assurance during major events and VIP engagements.

Measurement & Legacy
• Define and track KPIs to measure programming reach, quality, and strategic impact.
• Embed knowledge-sharing and legacy-building into the design and documentation of programming.
• Produce post-Expo reviews and impact reports to capture lessons learned and inform future participations.

Leadership & Budget
• Lead the procurement, contracting, and oversight of agencies and partners delivering programming content.
• Manage the programming budget and ensure efficient, high-impact delivery.
• Supervise and mentor cross-functional teams working on content and programming.

Key Skills & Qualifications

Education and Experience
• Bachelor’s degree or higher in Cultural Management, Events, International Relations, or a related field.
• 7 to 10 years of experience in curating or managing international cultural programs, public events, or large-scale exhibitions.
• Experience delivering multi-stakeholder programs, ideally in government or global event settings.
• Fluency in English and Arabic, UAE National candidates are preferred.
• Prior experience working in or with the UAE is preferred.

Skills and Abilities
• Strategic thinker with the ability to connect programming to broader national objectives and Expo-wide goals.
• Demonstrated ability to design content that speaks to local and global audiences alike.
• Excellent stakeholder management skills, including experience in high-level institutional and diplomatic settings.
• Ability to manage multiple programs simultaneously under tight timelines and shifting priorities.
• Strong written, verbal, and presentation skills; confident representing the UAE in diverse settings.
• Familiarity with hybrid and digital programming formats is a plus.

Other
• Familiarity with Expo formats, international events, or pavilion operations is a plus.
• Willingness to relocate or travel internationally for extended periods.