Logistics manager - Novelty Middle East

Novelty Middle East is looking for a Logistics Manager to oversee warehouse operations, equipment preparation, transportation, and on-site logistics activities within a highly international environment. The successful candidate will lead logistics teams, coordinate with internal departments to ensure the efficient movement and availability of equipment, and manage regional and international freight flows, particularly across the GCC and between Europe and the Middle East, while ensuring compliance with customs regulations, import-export procedures, quality, safety, and customer service standards.

Roles & Responsibilities

• Welcome and support project staff (freelancers and permanent employees) throughout their time on site.
• Anticipate and prepare equipment requirements in collaboration with the warehouse team.
• Coordinate equipment preparation activities.
• Manage emergency equipment requests with the logistics team.
• Verify equipment preparations before dispatch.
• Coordinate vehicle movements and loading bay operations on site.
• Liaise with the Transport Logistics Manager regarding site deliveries and loading/unloading schedules.
• Define equipment staging and loading areas.
• Oversee vehicle loading and unloading operations in collaboration with warehouse staff.
• Manage the storage of empty flight cases and the preparation of equipment for projects.
• Coordinate the logistics of third-party equipment rentals on site.
• May oversee the opening and closing of company premises during weekdays.
• Ensure company vehicles are secured at the end of each working day.
• Monitor regulatory and technical developments relevant to logistics operations.

Profile

REQUIRED PROFILE

You have completed a two-year higher education qualification in Logistics, Supply Chain, or Transportation Management, or have at least five years of experience in the live events technical services industry. You have a strong understanding of logistics operations, warehouse management, audiovisual equipment, and international freight management. You are highly familiar with road freight between GCC countries, including customs regulations and import-export procedures specific to the region. Experience in air freight, particularly between Europe and the Middle East, is essential. A good working knowledge of international sea freight and related regulations would also be expected, although to a lesser extent. You are proficient in Microsoft Office, particularly Excel, and have a good knowledge of transport regulations, health and safety standards, and continuous improvement practices. Fluent English is required, while French would be an advantage. Proficiency in Urdu and/or Hindi would also be considered a significant asset.

Required Competencies

Hard Skills

• Strong knowledge of audiovisual equipment.
• Good understanding of the live events technical services industry.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, particularly Excel.
• Strong knowledge of regional and international logistics regulations, including road freight between GCC countries, customs regulations, regional import-export procedures, air freight between Europe and the Middle East, and international sea freight regulations.
• Familiarity with continuous improvement methodologies.
• Team management and leadership skills.
• Knowledge of health & safety regulations and risk prevention.
• Financial and operational management skills (budget monitoring, P&L awareness, financial analysis).
• Fluent in English.
• Proficiency in French is considered an asset.
• Proficiency in Urdu and/or Hindi would also be considered a significant asset.

Soft Skills

• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Autonomous and proactive.
• Analytical thinking and problem-solving abilities.
• Adaptability and flexibility.
• Responsive and able to anticipate operational needs.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
• Diplomacy.
• Ability to manage high-pressure and crisis situations.