Operations Manager

About the Role

As Arabian Wanderers expands across multiple countries, we are hiring a driven and experienced Operations Manager to oversee the full operational backbone of the company. This is a senior leadership role that combines strategic thinking with hands-on field presence, ensuring every trip we run — across the UAE and beyond — is executed to the highest standard.

Key Responsibilities

UAE Field Operations

• Hire, train, and allocate freelance guides, astronomers, and yoga instructors across B2C, school, and corporate trips
• Be present on the ground to lead large-scale events (school trips, corporate events, and weekends with high guest volumes)
• Manage and support the Operations Supervisor in overseeing all backend logistics including transport, 4x4s, helpers, tents, equipment, and food for UAE camping trips

Multi-Country Coordination

• Coordinate with in-country operations managers in Oman, Jordan, and Socotra regarding their responsibilities across all trips
• Ensure consistent standards of quality, safety, and guest experience across all destinations

Sales & Product Support

• Collaborate with the sales team by providing product training, preparing itineraries, conducting cost analysis, and presenting to corporate clients and schools

Quality, Safety & Guest Experience

• Establish and enforce procedures for quality, health, and safety across all operations
• Consistently gather guest feedback and implement meaningful improvements
• Ensure waivers are signed across all trips in every destination

Process & Cost Efficiency

• Develop and implement SOPs to streamline and automate company operations
• Maintain and manage contracts with all third-party suppliers
• Keep operational costs as lean and efficient as possible

Requirements

• Experience in a senior operations or leadership role
• Proven ability to manage and develop teams across multiple functions
• Experience in the travel, tourism, adventure, or events industry (preferred)
• Exposure to multi-country or regional operations (preferred)
• Strong organizational and problem-solving skills
• Comfortable working in the field and in outdoor environments
• Passion for and experience in the outdoors
• Confident communicator, able to engage with corporate clients, schools, and diverse teams
• Valid driving license
• Based in the UAE or willing to relocate
• A passport that allows travel to Oman, Jordan, Saudi Arabia and Yemen.

What We Offer

• Competitive salary based on experience
• Equity stake in a fast-growing adventure company
• Visa provided
• A high-impact role with real ownership and room to grow
• The opportunity to help shape the operational foundation of a company expanding across the region