Manager - Marina and Leisure Development
AD Ports GroupJobsCloseBy Editorial Insights
AD Ports Group is looking for a seasoned Manager for Marina and Leisure Development to drive international expansion, oversee the design and delivery of new marinas and waterfront destinations, and elevate operations, asset management, and customer experience across a global portfolio while aligning with Abu Dhabi’s tourism and maritime leisure strategies. The role requires at least 10 years in marina, port, or waterfront development with five in a senior leadership capacity, plus a track record in partnerships, joint ventures, acquisitions, master planning, and digital transformation. To apply, tailor your CV to quantify strategic impact, market-entry successes, budgeting and risk management, and stakeholder engagement, and highlight sustainability and technology integration.
Responsible for identifying and developing new marina business opportunities, implementing strategic plans, and fostering strong relationships with key stakeholders (internal and external).
Core Responsibilities:
• Develop and execute the integrated Marina Development and Expansion Strategy covering operations, investment, and international growth.
• Oversee the planning, design, and delivery of new marinas, yacht clubs, and waterfront destinations across the UAE and abroad, ensuring operational readiness and adherence to world-class standards.
• support financial planning, capital budgeting, and revenue optimization across all marina assets, ensuring sustainable growth and profitability.
• Conduct market intelligence and competitive benchmarking to identify new international markets, partners, and business opportunities for marina expansion.
• Ensure the seamless integration of marina operations, asset management, digital systems, and customer experience enhancements across the portfolio.
• Champion innovation, sustainability, and environmental stewardship in all marina design and operational practices.
• Monitor and report on the performance and effectiveness of development and business initiatives, recommending corrective actions where required.
Strategic Responsibilities:
• Lead AD Ports Group’s marina internationalization agenda, identifying and executing entry strategies into high-potential markets.
• Serve as the executive sponsor for flagship development projects, global partnerships, and digital transformation programs.
• Advise leadership and the Board on market trends, investment risks, and long-term growth opportunities across the marina sectors.
• Represent the marina cluster in policy development committees, investment planning sessions, and inter-governmental coordination forums.
• Ensure alignment of all marina initiatives with Abu Dhabi’s tourism, cruise, and maritime leisure strategies, strengthening the emirate’s global positioning.
• Oversee the integration of sustainability, smart technology, and innovation within marina design and operations to future-proof assets and enhance competitiveness.
Bachelor's degree in business administration, International Business, Economics or a related field; master's degree is a plus.
Professional certification or diploma in project management, supply chain management, or logistics are considered an asset.
Fluency in English; knowledge of additional languages is a plus.
Minimum 10 years of experience in marina, port, or waterfront development, with at least 5 years in a senior leadership role involving international business growth.
Experience: Marina master planning and experience in global partnerships, acquisitions, or joint ventures in the maritime or leisure sectors.
Problem-solving: the ability to identify and analyze problems, generate and evaluate potential solutions, and take action to address them.
Adaptability: the ability to be flexible and adaptable in the face of changing circumstances, and to adjust one's plans and strategies as needed.
Self-efficacy: the belief in one's ability to succeed and achieve goals, even in the face of challenges or setbacks.
Agile: the flexibility and the ability to adapt quickly to changing circumstances, requirements, and priorities.
Prioritization and multi-tasking: balance multiple priorities, projects, and tasks simultaneously.