Freelance F&B Manager – Events & Festivals

Position Overview

Vendor Sourcing & Selection

• Identify, approach, and secure food and beverage vendors that align with each event’s theme, audience profile, and commercial objectives.
• Recommend suitable vendors and concepts that will attract visitors and enhance the overall event experience.
• Manage the vendor application, screening, evaluation, and selection process.
• Build and maintain a strong pipeline of qualified F&B vendors.

Vendor Onboarding & Contract Management

• Manage the end-to-end vendor onboarding process.
• Prepare, negotiate, and administer vendor contracts and agreements.
• Ensure all required permits, licenses, insurance documents, and compliance requirements are submitted and approved.
• Maintain accurate records of vendor documentation and contractual obligations.

Stakeholder Management

• Serve as the primary point of contact between the client, agency, and F&B vendors.
• Coordinate requirements and communications among all stakeholders.
• Address operational issues and facilitate timely resolutions.

Revenue Reporting & Administration

• Collect and verify daily sales and revenue reports from vendors during event operations.
• Prepare revenue summaries and performance reports for management and clients.
• Support post-event reconciliation and reporting processes.

Event Operations

• Monitor vendor performance and compliance during event operations.
• Ensure vendors adhere to event guidelines, health and safety regulations, and operational standards.
• Work closely with event operations teams to ensure smooth execution of all F&B activities.

Requirements

• Minimum 3–5 years of relevant experience in F&B management, vendor management, event operations, or festival management.
• Demonstrated experience managing F&B vendors for festivals, public events, exhibitions, or large-scale entertainment events.
• Strong knowledge of the UAE events and hospitality market.
• Excellent negotiation, communication, and relationship management skills.
• Strong organizational and administrative capabilities.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple projects simultaneously.

Preferred Qualifications

• Bilingual in English and Arabic (required).
• Previous experience working in the UAE events and festivals industry.
• Established network of food and beverage vendors within the UAE.
• Experience working with event agencies, organizers, and government stakeholders.
• Available to work flexible hours, including weekends and event days, throughout the contract period.

Engagement Type

• Freelance Contract
• Duration: July 2026 – December 2026
• UAE-based candidates preferred
• Immediate availability or availability to commence in July 2026