Director – Arts & Culture Sector, Doha

Hanson Search; Doha; On-site; QAR 200,000 - 400,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading cultural organization in Qatar is seeking a Director to lead the launch of Art Basel Qatar. This role involves strategic leadership, stakeholder engagement with local authorities, and managing complex budgets. Ideal candidates should have experience in major cultural events and strong skills in securing sponsorships. Fluency in English is required, Arabic is a plus. Be part of a significant cultural initiative!

Qualifications

• Experience in leadership roles within major cultural events.
• Proven track record in managing high-level sponsorships.
• Strong ability to manage complex budgets.

Responsibilities

• Drive the launch and execution of Art Basel Qatar.
• Lead all fair operations locally and internationally.
• Serve as the main liaison with Qatari government entities.

Skills

Leadership in art fairs

Sponsorship management

Budget management

Stakeholder engagement

Cross-functional team leadership

Cultural understanding of Middle East

Job description

Qatar Sports Investments is seeking a visionary and accomplished art world leader to spearhead their partnership with Art Basel, as they prepare to launch the first-ever Art Basel fair in Qatar in February 2026. This is a rare opportunity to shape the future of one of the world’s most prestigious cultural events in a new and dynamic setting.

As Director, you will serve as the lead representative for QSI in this high-profile international collaboration. You will work closely with Qatari stakeholders, including Qatar Museums, QC+, and Qatar Airways, ensuring alignment with Art Basel’s global standards while embracing Qatar’s distinctive cultural identity.

Key Responsibilities:

• Strategic Leadership: Drive the launch and execution of Art Basel Qatar, aligning with Art Basel’s global vision and local strategy.
• Operational Oversight: Lead all fair operations locally and internationally, representing QSI across committees.
• Stakeholder Engagement: Serve as the main liaison with Qatari government entities, cultural institutions, and private partners.
• Financial Management: Oversee multimillion-dollar budgets with a focus on efficiency and excellence.
• Sponsorship & Partnerships: Secure and manage high-value sponsorships and strategic partnerships.
• Team Leadership: Guide cross-functional teams across QSI and Art Basel to ensure seamless collaboration.
• Marketing Support: Contribute to marketing and media strategies with internal and external partners.
• Compliance & Risk: Uphold local regulations, royal protocol, and global ethical standards.

Key Requirements

• Experience in leadership roles within art fairs or major cultural events, ideally with experience launching internationally recognised exhibitions.
• Proven track record in securing and managing high-level sponsorships with corporations, luxury brands, and/or public sector bodies.
• Strong ability to manage complex budgets and reporting structures.
• Deep understanding of the Middle East cultural landscape and strong existing relationships within the global art community.
• Skilled in managing diverse, high-performing teams in fast-paced and high-profile environments.
• Outstanding presentation and stakeholder engagement skills; fluency in English required, Arabic highly desirable.

Ready to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of Art Basel in Qatar?

Apply now together with your CV and be part of a globally significant cultural moment with Qatar Sports Investments.

If you have the relevant experience and this opportunity sounds interesting to you, please get in touch with our team including a copy of your CV as soon as possible via the form below.

Hanson Search is a leading talent advisory and executive search consultancy with consultants based across the UAE, UK, USA, and Europe. We specialise in business-critical roles that drive revenue, reputation, and risk, with dedicated teams in Communications, Government Relations, Financial Communications, Public Affairs, Marketing, Digital Marketing, Sustainability, Investor Relations and C-Suite recruitment. Please click here to find out more about Hanson Search.

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