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Our people at JLL and JLL Technologies are shaping the future of real estate for a better world by combining world class services, advisory and technology for our clients. We are committed to hiring the best, most talented people  and empowering them to  thrive, grow meaningful careers and to find a place where they belong.  Whether you’ve got deep experience in commercial real estate, skilled trades or technology, or you’re looking to apply your relevant experience to a new industry, join our team as we help shape a brighter way forward.   

Head of Sports, Leisure, and Entertainment Consulting - MEA

Location: Dubai, UAE

Position Overview

JLL is seeking an experienced and visionary leader to head our Sports, Leisure, and Entertainment (SLE) Consulting practice across the Middle East and Africa region. This senior role will drive the development and delivery of specialized advisory services for sports facilities, entertainment venues, leisure developments, and mixed-use projects incorporating these elements. The successful candidate will build and lead a best-in-class team while establishing JLL as the premier advisor in this dynamic and growing sector across MEA.

Key Responsibilities

Business Development & Strategy

Develop and execute the regional SLE consulting strategy aligned with JLL's broader MEA growth objectivesIdentify and pursue new business opportunities across sports, leisure, entertainment, and hospitality sectorsBuild and maintain relationships with key clients including developers, investors, government entities, sports federations, and entertainment companiesLead major client presentations and proposal development for high-value consulting assignmentsMonitor market trends and emerging opportunities in the SLE sector across MEA markets

Team Leadership & Development

Recruit, develop, and manage a high-performing team of SLE consultants and specialistsProvide mentorship and career development guidance to team membersEstablish performance standards and manage team objectives and KPIsFoster a collaborative culture focused on excellence and innovationBuild cross-functional relationships with other JLL service lines and regional teams

Service Delivery & Client Management

Oversee delivery of complex SLE consulting assignments including feasibility studies, master planning, venue programming, and operational strategyEnsure quality standards and timely delivery of all client engagementsMaintain strong client relationships and drive repeat business opportunitiesDevelop specialized methodologies and tools for SLE consulting servicesStay current with industry best practices and emerging technologies in the SLE sector

Market Development

Establish JLL's thought leadership position in MEA SLE markets through speaking engagements, research publications, and industry participationRepresent JLL at key industry conferences, trade shows, and networking eventsDevelop strategic partnerships with architects, consultants, operators, and other industry stakeholdersContribute to JLL's research and insights publications on SLE market trends

Required Qualifications

Education & Experience

Bachelor's degree in Real Estate, Business, Sports Management, Architecture, or related field; Master's degree preferredMinimum 10-12 years of experience in sports, leisure, entertainment, or hospitality consulting/developmentMinimum 5-7 years in senior leadership or management rolesProven track record of business development and P&L managementExperience working across MEA markets strongly preferred

Technical Skills

Deep understanding of sports facility planning, entertainment venue development, and leisure project economicsKnowledge of various venue types including stadiums, arenas, theme parks, waterparks, family entertainment centers, and mixed-use developmentsUnderstanding of public-private partnerships and major event hosting requirementsFamiliarity with sustainability and ESG considerations in SLE developmentsProficiency in financial modeling and feasibility analysis

Leadership & Soft Skills

Exceptional leadership and team management capabilitiesOutstanding client relationship management and business development skillsStrong presentation and communication skills in English; Arabic language skills advantageousCultural sensitivity and ability to work effectively across diverse MEA marketsStrategic thinking with strong analytical and problem-solving abilitiesEntrepreneurial mindset with ability to build and scale a practice area

Preferred Qualifications

Previous experience with major sporting events (FIFA World Cup, Olympics, etc.)Knowledge of entertainment industry trends including gaming, esports, and immersive experiencesExperience with government and quasi-government clients in the MEA regionProfessional certifications in project management (PMP) or related fieldsExisting network of relationships within MEA SLE markets

What We Offer

Competitive base salary with performance-based incentivesComprehensive benefits package including health, dental, and retirement plansProfessional development opportunities and continuing education supportFlexible working arrangements and modern workplace environmentOpportunity to build and lead a practice area within a global real estate services leaderExposure to marquee projects and high-profile clients across the MEA region

About JLL

JLL (NYSE: JLL) is a leading professional services firm that specializes in real estate and investment management. JLL shapes the future of real estate for a better world by using the most advanced technology to create rewarding opportunities, amazing spaces and sustainable real estate solutions for our clients, our people and our communities.

JLL is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion in the workplace.

To Apply: Please submit your resume and cover letter detailing your relevant experience and vision for developing JLL's SLE consulting practice in the MEA region.

Location:

On-site –Dubai, ARE

If this job description resonates with you, we encourage you to apply even if you don’t meet all of the requirements.  We’re interested in getting to know you and what you bring to the table!

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Jones Lang LaSalle (“JLL”) is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities.  If you need a reasonable accommodation because of a disability for any part of the employment process – including the online application and/or overall selection process –  you may email us at accomodationrequest@am.jll.com. This email is only to request an accommodation. Please direct any other general recruiting inquiries to our Contact Us page > I want to work for JLL.