Director Abu Dhabi Office 69935

Alberta; Abu Dhabi; On-site; AED 409,000 - 521,000; Full time

Job summary

A provincial government is seeking a Director for its Abu Dhabi Office to promote international trade and strengthen economic relationships in the UAE and MENA region. This role requires a Canadian citizen with significant experience in international economic development and a strong educational background in Business or Economics. Responsibilities include leading engagement strategies, managing relationships, and supporting trade missions. The role offers a competitive salary within a temporary 4-year contract.

Qualifications

• Eight years of progressively responsible experience in relevant fields.
• Experience in international economic development and policy advocacy.
• Exceptional verbal, written, listening, and interpersonal communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead Alberta’s international engagement strategy in the UAE and MENA region.
• Build and manage strategic relationships with government and industry.
• Promote Alberta’s strengths as a place to live and do business.

Skills

International business development

Stakeholder relationship management

Diplomacy and negotiation skills

Strategic planning

Networking

Education

University graduation in Business or Economics

Focus in International Business or Economics

Job description

Job Information

Job Title: Director Abu Dhabi Office
Job Requisition ID: 69935
Ministry: Executive Council
Location: Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
Full or Part-Time: Full Time
Hours of Work: 36.25 hours per week
Permanent/Temporary: Temporary 4‑year contract
Scope: Open Competition (Must be a Citizen of Canada)
Closing Date: April 24 2025
Classification: Management Senior Manager Zone 2
Salary: $4274.26 to $5427.68 biweekly ($111,558 to $141,662/year)

About the Role

As Director of Alberta’s Abu Dhabi Office, you will be the Government of Alberta’s lead representative in the UAE and across MENA, advancing Alberta’s economic interests, strengthening trade relationships, and attracting investment and talent to the province. Based in Abu Dhabi and working closely with partners across Alberta and Canada, you will help Alberta companies grow internationally, uncover market opportunities and build strategic networks across key sectors such as energy, agriculture, clean technology, life sciences and transportation. This role is more than managing an office; it is about shaping Alberta’s global story and creating real economic results for Albertans.

What You’ll Be Doing

• Leading Alberta’s international engagement strategy in the UAE and MENA region.
• Building and managing strategic relationships with government, industry, investors and partners.
• Promoting Alberta’s strengths as a place to live, invest, study and do business.
• Identifying trade and investment opportunities and connecting Alberta companies to global markets.
• Providing leadership to a small dedicated team in Abu Dhabi.
• Managing operational planning, budgeting and performance of the Alberta Abu Dhabi Office.
• Collaborating with Alberta ministries, federal partners and investment agencies such as Invest Alberta Corporation.
• Supporting inbound and outbound trade missions, advocacy efforts and marketing initiatives.

APS Competencies

• Systems Thinking: Consider broader impacts and connections in a larger integrated environment.
• Creative Problem Solving: Assess options and implications in new ways to achieve outcomes.
• Agility: Adapt to changing priorities and maintain resilience in uncertain times.
• Drive for Results: Maximize outcomes aligned with goals and maintain accountability.
• Develop Self and Others: Commitment to lifelong learning and development.
• Build Collaborative Environments: Lead and contribute to productive, collaborative conditions.
• Developing Networks: Build trust and relationships with stakeholders.

Qualifications

University graduation in a field related to the position; preferred degree with a focus in Business or Economics supplemented by eight years progressively responsible experience. Related experience or education may be considered as an equivalency on a one‑for‑one basis. Preferred degree with a focus in International Business or Economics. Canadian Citizenship REQUIRED.

Assets

• A broad understanding of Alberta’s current economic drivers and priorities as well as political and social issues.
• Extensive experience in international economic development, policy advocacy and networking to drive outcomes.
• Understanding of Alberta’s industry and networks and the Alberta value proposition for international trade promotion and investment attraction.
• Capacity for building relationships with domestic and international businesses, intergovernmental partners and key stakeholders.
• Exceptional diplomacy skills in dealing with sensitive and controversial matters and representing the province at senior political, business and social levels.
• Knowledge of business management and international business development principles and practices.
• Proven success in managing complex issues and positively influencing outcomes.
• Exceptional verbal, written, listening and interpersonal communication skills.

Minimum Recruitment Standards

Minimum recruitment standards outline the minimum education and experience required for appointment to a job classification. The position is based outside of Alberta and Canada. Successful candidates must be Canadian citizens eligible to work internationally.

How To Apply

Applicants must provide information that clearly demonstrates how their qualifications meet the advertised requirements, including education, experience and relevant competency examples. Candidates must apply online through the designated recruitment portal. Please see the portal for detailed application instructions.