Bait Al Gahwa Programme Development Unit Head DCT

BLR WORLD; Abu Dhabi; On-site; AED 200,000 - 300,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading cultural organization in the UAE seeks a Programme Development Unit Head to provide strategic leadership for the Bait Al Gahwa program. This role involves innovating and overseeing programming that promotes traditional Emirati practices related to coffee making and hospitality. Candidates should have at least 8 years of relevant experience, a strong understanding of Emirati culture, and be proficient in English and Arabic. Join a dynamic environment committed to cultural heritage preservation and creativity.

Qualifications

• At least 8 years of experience in project management and cultural engagement.
• Understanding of Emirati culture and traditions is a must.
• Ability to manage multiple initiatives in a fast-paced environment.

Responsibilities

• Provide strategic leadership for Bait Al Gahwa.
• Develop innovative programs and ensure cultural authenticity.
• Cultivate relationships with stakeholders and represent the program.

Skills

Full professional proficiency in English

Full professional proficiency in Arabic

Skilled in MS Office (PowerPoint, Word, Excel)

Leadership and managerial skills

Knowledge in tourism sector

Networking and relationship building

Visionary leadership

Education

Bachelor's or Master’s degree in Business Administration or Cultural Studies

Job description

Job Title

Bait Al Gahwa Programme Development Unit Head

Role Purpose

Provide strategic leadership and oversight to ensure the preservation, promotion, and innovative development of the Bait Al Gahwa program. Drive the overall vision development and of the initiative which aims to safeguard traditional Emirati practices related to Gahwa making. Lead the design and integration of creative cutting‑edge programming while ensuring that these programs adhere to UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage standards. Work closely with internal departments and external entities ensuring that programs align with the broader goals of DCT Abu Dhabi and the vision of Bait Al Gahwa. These cross‑departmental collaborations are essential for successfully executing programs reaching local and international audiences and ensuring seamless implementation.

Key Responsibilities

Leading on Programme Development

• Contribute in the strategic direction and vision of the Bait Al Gahwa ensuring alignment with DCT Abu Dhabi’s broader cultural heritage and preservation objectives.
• Drive the development of innovative programs that celebrate the traditional art of Arabic coffee‑making and Majlis hosting while incorporating creative methodologies and modern technologies.
• Ensure the Bait Al Gahwa programs uphold the highest standards of cultural authenticity, innovation and excellence aligned with UNESCO’s safeguarding practices for intangible cultural heritage.
• Collaborate with the Operations team to ensure the smooth implementation of all programming and content related to Bait Al Gahwa. This collaboration will involve coordinating logistics, managing schedules and overseeing the setup and delivery of events, training programs and other activities. By providing clear direction and support the Unit Head will ensure that all operational aspects are aligned with the program’s objectives and executed seamlessly.
• Lead the development of systems and platforms that facilitate the training and engagement of Emirati youth preparing them to become future heritage ambassadors while maintaining a balance between traditional heritage and modern creativity.

Creative Direction & Innovation

• Spearhead the integration of creativity and innovative content across the Bait Al Gahwa program ensuring a fusion of traditional cultural elements with modern digital and interactive experiences.
• Work with Marketing to create digital content that highlights the uniqueness of the program while ensuring it engages diverse local and international audiences.
• Explore new technologies such as AR/VR, digital storytelling and gamification to enhance participant engagement and expand the reach of Bait Al Gahwa to younger generations.

Stakeholder Management & External Relations

• Cultivate and manage relationships with key stakeholders including heritage experts, cultural organizations, educational institutions and government entities to amplify the impact and visibility of the Bait Al Gahwa.
• Advocate for and represent the Bait Al Gahwa program at local, regional and international cultural forums, festivals and conferences building strategic partnerships to further the program’s objectives.
• Foster collaboration with external partners and sponsors ensuring that innovation is integrated into the program while preserving cultural heritage.
• Lead engagement with Emirati youth ensuring their active participation through innovative hands‑on experiences facilitated by external and internal partnerships.

Cross‑Departmental Collaboration

• Oversee the day‑to‑day programme planning and implementation of Bait Al Gahwa ensuring that programs are executed smoothly across all departments involved.
• Provide clear guidance and the necessary resources to Operations and Marketing teams ensuring alignment in the planning and execution of events and marketing efforts.
• Collaborate with internal departments to ensure all elements of the Bait Al Gahwa program are coordinated including logistics, marketing and community outreach.
• Ensure all programs are aligned with the department’s objectives, are efficiently executed and meet the required deadlines and standards of excellence.

Monitoring & Reporting

• Establish and track programming‑related KPIs for the Bait Al Gahwa to measure the success and impact of the program with a focus on creative output, community engagement and audience expansion.
• Provide regular reports to senior management offering insights based on data‑driven metrics and identifying opportunities for improvements and strategic adjustments.
• Gather feedback from participants and stakeholders to inform future program developments and ensure continuous innovation in content.

Policies Compliance & Safety

• Ensure compliance with DCT Abu Dhabi’s policies, processes and procedures with an emphasis on heritage preservation and cultural programming.
• Uphold best practices for sustainability and environmental responsibility in all aspects of the program’s design and implementation.
  Adhere to Environment, Health and Safety (EHS) guidelines ensuring a safe and healthy environment for staff, participants and guests.

Cultural Heritage & Advocacy

• Promote and advocate for the preservation of Emirati cultural heritage particularly in the context of Arabic coffee‑making and Majlis hosting locally and internationally.
• Drive efforts to maintain the highest standards of cultural integrity while being open to incorporating innovative trends in the industry.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Business Administration, Cultural Studies or equivalent.

Experience

• At least 8 years of experience in project management, business development, relationship management and culture engagement. A deep understanding of Emirati culture and traditions, including the traditional practices related to Emirati hospitality, Majlis hosting and the art of Gahwa preparation. Preferably with strong understanding of the cultural landscape at local, regional and international levels.

Skills

• Language: Full professional proficiency in English and Arabic, both in speaking and writing.
• Skilled in MS Office (PowerPoint, Word and Excel).
• Excellent leadership and managerial skills: the ability to manage teams and multiple projects.
• Strong knowledge and track record of achievements in the tourism sector is preferable.
• In‑depth and thought leadership.
• Visionary, emotionally intelligent leader with a proven track record of achievements that contributed to improving the competitiveness of the tourism sector in a specific region or area with a similar context to Abu Dhabi.
• Proven track record in developing strong strategic partnerships which requires strong networking, relationship building and negotiating skills.
• Strategic and future‑focused mindset.
• Ability to lead teams in diverse multicultural organizations and to lead transformational change within the organization.
• Ability to manage multiple initiatives and programs, agility and ability to work in a very fast‑paced environment.