Event Director

About the Role

As the Event Director at MMI Asia, you will oversee one or more trade fair brands comprehensively, driving strategic vision, commercial success, and customer-centric execution. Based primarily in Singapore but with flexible connectivity across Southeast Asia (including Thailand, Vietnam, Philippines, and Malaysia), you will lead a diverse team spanning sales, marketing, operations, buyer acquisition, and content development while regularly traveling within the region.

Key Responsibilities

• Establish a 3-5 year vision and annual strategies focused on growth through new sectors, geographies, and event formats including live, hybrid, and digital experiences.
• Identify and develop innovative opportunities such as feature zones, conferences, brand expansions, geo-clones, and new launches within ASEAN markets.
• Leverage customer insights, market analytics, and competitive intelligence to maintain event relevance and competitive advantage.
• Manage full P&L accountability including budgeting, forecasting, pricing, and margin enhancement year over year.
• Set sales targets across exhibition spaces, sponsorships, and partnerships, collaborating closely with sales and commercial leadership to meet goals.
• Provide timely and clear updates on performance, risks, and potential opportunities to senior management.
• Maintain robust relationships with key stakeholders such as exhibitors, sponsors, industry associations, and partners, ensuring an excellent experience for all participants.
• Represent events authoritatively at industry forums and in media, enhancing brand credibility.
• Lead, inspire, and develop a high-performing, cross-functional team with set objectives and constructive feedback conducive to professional growth.
• Oversee flawless execution of events covering planning to onsite delivery and post-event assessment, ensuring safety, quality, and operational excellence.
• Collaborate across global Messe München teams to share best practices in data management, marketing strategies, and commercial operations.

Candidate Profile

• Minimum of 10 years experience with strong commercial success and P&L responsibility, not necessarily within exhibitions or B2B events.
• At least 5 years leading multicultural, multinational, and cross-functional teams.
• Experience launching and nurturing events within ASEAN markets, skilled at working across diverse cultural and time zone environments.
• Strong analytical skills and ability to manage multiple priorities efficiently under pressure.
• Proficient in written and spoken English, with additional ASEAN language skills considered advantageous.
• Flexible to travel regionally and adapt work patterns around event timelines.

What we offer

• Competitive remuneration with entrepreneurial incentives aligned to performance.
• True ownership over your portfolio with autonomy to influence market-leading event platforms.
• Backed by Messe München’s global brand recognition, resources, and network.
• Opportunity to make a significant impact and advance industries within the ASEAN region.
• A dynamic, international team environment located centrally in Southeast Asia.

About MMI Asia

MMI Asia, headquartered in Singapore, is the regional subsidiary of Messe München, a globally prominent exhibition organizer. Known for iconic brands and events, the company is expanding actively in ASEAN through new ventures, partnerships, and acquisitions, offering professionals a growth-focused and supportive environment.