Operations Manager

Role Overview

This position is for an Operations/Administration Manager focused on real estate. The selected professional will take ownership of property operations from end to end, with responsibility across leasing, facilities upkeep, and procurement. The job calls for a solid understanding of UAE real estate rules, day-to-day operational excellence, and asset improvement methods. Success in the role means keeping operations efficient, controlling costs, supporting tenant satisfaction, and ensuring full compliance with Dubai regulatory bodies.

Leasing Operations

You will oversee leasing activity across residential, commercial, and retail assets. A key part of the role is to build and execute leasing plans that improve occupancy and strengthen rental returns. The job also includes tracking renewals, supporting tenant retention, and managing arrears. All lease work must follow RERA requirements and Dubai tenancy legislation. You will also coordinate with legal teams on documentation and dispute handling, while reviewing market movements and competitor pricing.

Facilities and Maintenance

The role covers supervision of preventive and corrective maintenance programs to keep buildings and assets in strong condition. You will ensure MEP systems, civil works, and core infrastructure are maintained to a high standard. Managing FM contractors and service providers will be part of your remit, along with lifecycle planning for assets and forecasting major capital spend. Compliance with Dubai Municipality, Civil Defense, and health and safety standards is essential, as is regular monitoring of service provider SLAs and KPIs.

Procurement and Vendor Management

You will shape procurement approaches in line with company policy and lead tendering, supplier selection, and contract negotiations. The role requires balancing quality and cost efficiency, maintaining an approved vendor pool, and reviewing vendor performance regularly. You will also manage contract administration and renewals.

Budgeting and Financial Control

This position involves preparing and tracking operating budgets, watching expenses closely, and applying cost-control measures where needed. You will carry out financial analysis linked to leasing income and operational spend, and support reporting related to asset valuation and overall performance.

Compliance and Risk

The role includes ensuring ongoing adherence to UAE real estate regulations and corporate governance standards. You will identify operational risks, introduce mitigation plans, and keep insurance compliance records and risk-related documentation up to date.

Team Leadership

You will lead and coach teams working in leasing, facilities management, and procurement. The position requires setting performance indicators, tracking results, and encouraging a workplace culture built on accountability, strong service delivery, and continuous improvement.

Required Competencies

Strong working knowledge of the UAE real estate market and RERA rules is mandatory. The ideal candidate should bring practical experience in leasing, facilities management, and procurement operations, along with strong financial and budgeting capability. The role also calls for negotiation skills, vendor management expertise, leadership ability, stakeholder coordination, clear communication, and solid reporting. Proficiency with ERP or property management software is expected.

Preferred Certifications

• RERA Certification, Dubai
• PMP (Project Management Professional)
• IFMA or facilities management certifications
• NEBOSH or another relevant health and safety certification

Key Performance Indicators

• Occupancy percentage and leasing turnaround time
• Tenant retention rate
• Maintenance response and closure time