Head of Sports, Leisure, and Entertainment Consulting

Job description / Role

JLL empowers you to shape a brighter way

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 objectives
• Identify and pursue new business opportunities across sports, leisure, entertainment, and hospitality sectors
• Build and maintain relationships with key clients including developers, investors, government entities, sports federations, and entertainment companies
• Lead major client presentations and proposal development for high-value consulting assignments
• Monitor 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 specialists
• Provide mentorship and career development guidance to team members
• Establish performance standards and manage team objectives and KPIs
• Foster a collaborative culture focused on excellence and innovation
• Build 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 strategy
• Ensure quality standards and timely delivery of all client engagements
• Maintain strong client relationships and drive repeat business opportunities
• Develop specialized methodologies and tools for SLE consulting services
• Stay 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 participation
• Represent JLL at key industry conferences, trade shows, and networking events
• Develop strategic partnerships with architects, consultants, operators, and other industry stakeholders
• Contribute 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 preferred
• Minimum 10-12 years of experience in sports, leisure, entertainment, or hospitality consulting or development
• Minimum 5-7 years in senior leadership or management roles
• Proven track record of business development and P&L management
• Experience working across MEA markets strongly preferred

Technical skills

• Deep understanding of sports facility planning, entertainment venue development, and leisure project economics
• Knowledge of various venue types including stadiums, arenas, theme parks, waterparks, family entertainment centers, and mixed-use developments
• Understanding of public-private partnerships and major event hosting requirements
• Familiarity with sustainability and ESG considerations in SLE developments
• Proficiency in financial modeling and feasibility analysis

Leadership & soft skills

• Exceptional leadership and team management capabilities
• Outstanding client relationship management and business development skills
• Strong presentation and communication skills in English; Arabic language skills advantageous
• Cultural sensitivity and ability to work effectively across diverse MEA markets
• Strategic thinking with strong analytical and problem-solving abilities
• Entrepreneurial 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 experiences
• Experience with government and quasi-government clients in the MEA region
• Professional certifications in project management (PMP) or related fields
• Existing network of relationships within MEA SLE markets

What we offer

• Competitive base salary with performance-based incentives
• Comprehensive benefits package including health, dental, and retirement plans
• Professional development opportunities and continuing education support
• Flexible working arrangements and modern workplace environment
• Opportunity to build and lead a practice area within a global real estate services leader
• Exposure to marquee projects and high-profile clients across the MEA region

About JLL

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.

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!

Location: On-site - Dubai, UAE

About the Company

In the Middle East and North Africa, Jones Lang LaSalle is a leading player in its real estate markets including the hospitality sector. The firm has worked in over 22 Middle Eastern and North African countries and over the last year has advised clients on more than $120 billion worth of real estate, hotel and hospitality development.

We continually create value for our clients and partners by challenging conventional thinking and employing innovative investment solutions. The rapid pace of change in the region creates significant opportunities, challenges and complex decisions for investors.

Jones Lang LaSalle is recognized as having leading real estate and hospitality expertise with a leadership team that has held senior positions with some of the largest real estate developers, hospitality companies and corporate groups in the Middle East and internationally.