Fair Trainee

About Downtown Design

Over the past decade of operating in the Middle East, Downtown Design has firmly established itself as the leading contemporary and quality design fair in the Middle East and a catalyst for growth in the region’s creative scene. Dedicated to original and contemporary, the fair showcases an edited selection of the latest collections, innovative products and design solutions by design brands and manufacturers from around the world, alongside limited-edition and bespoke design by studios, collectives and independent designers from the region and beyond. The fair is complemented by a collateral programme of pop-up concepts, creative and live talks, catering to each relevant audience; from international A&ID professionals or HNWIs to local homeowners and design-curious consumers, alike.

Role Overview

This role supports the overall planning and delivery of large-scale events by providing essential assistance across research, database management, digital content, and operational coordination. Working in close collaboration with the CRM, Marketing, and Operations teams, the position plays an integral role in verifying data, updating master trackers, maintaining exhibitor listings and website content, organizing digital assets on Dropbox, and preparing reports and collateral. It is ideally suited to a proactive, highly organized, and detail-oriented individual with strong communication skills and an adaptable approach, who thrives under pressure and is eager to contribute across various stages in the lead-up to and during the live event.

Responsibilities:

• Conduct thorough research to verify contact information (email addresses/phone numbers).
• Support in adding, updating, and maintaining contact details in database.
• Assist in creating and maintaining master sheets and trackers, ensuring that all information on trackers is up-to-date and accurate.
• Help with general website housekeeping.
• Assist in the uploading, updating, and maintenance of exhibitor listings.
• Liaise with the CRM and Marketing teams to ensure seamless communication.
• Assist in the preparation and compilation of reports and presentations.
• Support the coordination of event logistics and operations as needed.
• Assist in the preparation and distribution of print materials and collateral.
• Perform adhoc tasks and duties in the lead up and during the event.
• Assist in filing materials received from exhibitors on Dropbox, ensuring all documents are properly labeled and stored for easy access.

The ideal candidate should be able to do the following:

• Demonstrate flexibility to work beyond regular working hours (9am to 6pm) and outside of typical workdays (Monday-Friday) if and when required.
• Work and organise content proficiently using Microsoft Office (including Word, Excel and PowerPoint)
• Basic knowledge of digital platforms such as Google docs, sheets and slides
• Professional demeanour and diplomatic lead-approach
• Excellent communication, time-management and problem-solving skills
• Capacity for initiative, long-term planning and decision-making
• Ability to work in a team and under pressure, for long hours when necessary
• Ability to quickly integrate into a new environment and work within the given structure
• Accurate and reliable work
• Calm, well-mannered and always friendly
• Excellent command of English and proficiency in Arabic is preferred
• Copy writing skills preferred
• Relevant experience in assisting and working on large-scale events preferred
• The role requires a candidate who is dynamic, enthusiastic, flexible, hard-working and organized

This is a full-time, on-site traineeship running from 14 September to 13 November. Candidates must already be based in the UAE and hold a valid UAE residency visa.