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- Tasks: Lead legal aspects in sports and entertainment, focusing on GCC and KSA regulations.
- Company: Dynamic legal recruitment agency with a strong presence in the sports sector.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, career advancement, and the chance to shape a growing department.
- Why this job: Join a pivotal role in sports law and make a significant impact in the industry.
- Qualifications: 10+ PQE in commercial sports law, with GCC and KSA experience preferred.
- Other info: Opportunity to build and lead a diverse team of legal experts.
The predicted salary is between 72000 - 108000 £ per year.
Exclusive and new for 2026 - having just placed a projects director, we are further mandated for this in house sports role in the UAE @ 10+ PQE. You will likely be an Aus / UK / US candidate. This will suit a general commercial sports and entertainment lawyer that is already in the ME or a lawyer keen to swap London. But you must have exposure to GCC sports work and more notably KSA sport work.
Responsibilities
- You will be responsible for all the legal aspects within the department including the sector's restructuring and regulatory framework across the GCC. The KSA region is fundamental and all experience here will be considered a plus.
- You will lead a team of Arabic and English speaking lawyers and build a team with that in mind.
- Your experience will include advice on all issues regarding sports, but also on entertainment law, including contracts, intellectual property, sponsorship, media rights, and regulatory compliance.
- This will include drafting, reviewing, and negotiating complex contracts and agreements.
- You will be exposed to the relationships with national football teams, FIFA, and the AFC.
- Fundamentally, you will build a team of experts focusing on the commercial legal aspects of sports and drive the business forward.
Location and Leadership
Based in the City of London, Dan qualified as a solicitor in 2003 and is the owner of one of the longest serving legal recruitment agencies in London and the South East of England, Ellis-Wake. He regularly advises his clients on the complexity of the legal market, on their strategic future and is a known 'connector' and 'influencer' in the recruitment market. Dan's experience stretches back to 2004 and he's seen many significant changes in Global and local legal and recruitment markets and has recruited successfully in all of them.
How to Express Interest
If this role is of interest please contact Dan Wake (Director) in confidence at dan.wake@elliswake.com or on (+44) 7894 085790. Ellis-Wake acts as an employment agency for permanent roles.
Dubai, Sports Director (10 PQE plus), In House / inhouse within Sports & Entertainment in City of London employer: Ellis-Wake
Contact Detail:
Ellis-Wake Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Dubai, Sports Director (10 PQE plus), In House / inhouse within Sports & Entertainment in City of London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the sports and entertainment sector, especially those with ties to the GCC. A friendly chat can lead to opportunities that aren’t even advertised yet.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your expertise! Prepare a portfolio of your past work related to sports law and regulatory compliance. This will help you stand out when discussing your experience during interviews.
✨Tip Number 3
Stay updated on industry trends! Follow news about sports and entertainment law, especially in the GCC region. Being knowledgeable about current events can give you an edge in conversations with potential employers.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We’ve got loads of exciting roles, including this one in Dubai. It’s a great way to ensure your application gets noticed by the right people.
We think you need these skills to ace Dubai, Sports Director (10 PQE plus), In House / inhouse within Sports & Entertainment in City of London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to highlight your experience in sports and entertainment law, especially any work you've done in the GCC or KSA. We want to see how your background aligns with the role, so don’t hold back on showcasing relevant projects!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about this role and how you can drive the department forward. We love seeing enthusiasm and a clear vision for the future, so let your personality come through.
Showcase Leadership Skills: Since this role involves leading a team, make sure to highlight any leadership experience you have. We’re looking for someone who can build and inspire a team of lawyers, so share examples of how you've successfully led projects or teams in the past.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother application process. It helps us keep track of your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates. Plus, it shows you’re keen to join our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Ellis-Wake
✨Know Your GCC Sports Landscape
Make sure you brush up on the latest developments in the GCC sports sector, especially in KSA. Familiarise yourself with key players, recent regulatory changes, and major events. This will show your genuine interest and understanding of the market.
✨Highlight Relevant Experience
Prepare to discuss your previous work in sports and entertainment law, particularly any experience with contracts, media rights, or sponsorship deals. Be ready to provide specific examples that demonstrate your expertise and how it aligns with the role's responsibilities.
✨Showcase Leadership Skills
Since this role involves leading a team, think about your leadership style and past experiences managing teams. Prepare anecdotes that illustrate your ability to build and motivate a diverse group of lawyers, especially in a bilingual environment.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the company's vision for the sports department and how they see the role evolving. This not only shows your enthusiasm but also helps you gauge if the company culture aligns with your values.
