Protocols Senior Manager

久位; Saudi Arabia; On-site; SAR 60,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

An innovative firm in Saudi Arabia is seeking a Senior Manager for Government Protocols to lead strategic planning and execution of high-profile events. This pivotal role involves managing stakeholder relationships, ensuring adherence to protocol, and providing strategic support to the Government Affairs team. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in diplomatic relations and a deep understanding of Middle Eastern culture. Join a forward-thinking organization dedicated to shaping a new future and making a lasting impact in the region.

Qualifications

• 10+ years in protocol, diplomatic relations, or government affairs.
• Expertise in high-level event planning and execution.
• Strong communication skills in English and Arabic.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage complex high-level events and official functions.
• Develop and maintain government protocol procedures.
• Provide strategic support to senior management in government affairs.

Skills

Strategic Event Planning

Stakeholder Management

Government Protocols

Communication Skills

Cultural Awareness

Education

Bachelor’s Degree in Relevant Field

Job description

NEOM is an accelerator of human progress and a vision of what a new future might look like. A region in northwest Saudi Arabia on the Red Sea, NEOM is being built from the ground up to include hyperconnected, cognitive cities, ports, next-generation infrastructure and industries, enterprise zones, research centers, sports and entertainment venues and tourist destinations.

As a destination, it will be a home for people who dream big and want to be part of building a new model for exceptional livability, creating thriving businesses and reinventing environmental conservation.

As a workplace, it is a place for people who share our core values of care, curiosity, diversity, passion, respect, and becoming a catalyst for change.

Are you ready to help NEOM find solutions to the world’s most pressing challenges? Are you prepared to create a lasting legacy that benefits generations to come? Then we want to hear from you!

ROLE OVERVIEW

The Senior Manager, Government Protocols will establish, lead, and oversee the government protocol procedures and provide expert guidance and strategic support to the Executive Director and Managers within Government Affairs. This role focuses on the strategic planning, high-level execution, and seamless management of official engagements, complex events, and ensuring adherence to the highest standards of protocol and etiquette. This position involves comprehensive event strategy development, high-level stakeholder management, leading protocol operations, and providing senior administrative and strategic assistance to the Government Affairs team.

REQUIREMENTS SUMMARY

ROLE COMPETENCIES & ACTIVITIES

Strategic Event Planning & Execution

• Lead, plan, strategically manage, and execute complex high-level conferences, ministerial meetings, state visits, ceremonial events, and official functions in their entirety.
• Direct and oversee the operational planning and event operations of unique and high-profile events and experiences.
• Develop and champion the long-term events strategy and lead planning for future years, integrating protocol requirements.
• Manage all aspects of event planning from start to finish, including strategic vendor selection, contract negotiation, overseeing setup and tear down, and vendor demobilization.
• Lead the management of operational planning through the development and approval of comprehensive, specific event plans.
• Lead and coordinate operations with vendors, agencies, and event teams, specifying roles and responsibilities across operational teams (Security, Mobility, Logistics, Accommodations, Marketing, event staff, etc.) at a senior level.
• Oversee the writing of comprehensive post-event reports to inform on best practices and lessons learned at a strategic level.
• Lead and direct communication regarding events and future planning with other NEOM departments.

Senior Protocol & Stakeholder Management

• Develop, implement, and maintain the overall government protocol procedures and ensure the highest standards of etiquette for all official engagements.
• Provide expert counsel and definitive responses to complex enquiries raised by senior management.
• Lead the strategic management of high-level stakeholder relationships prior to, during, and after events and visits.
• Represent NEOM at official events and manage the appropriate arrangements for gifts for distinguished guests.
• Ensure exceptional and bespoke special amenities are provided for VIP visitors.
• Strategically plan and coordinate all high-level logistics, including secure transportation, security, and premium housing accommodations.
• Lead and direct communication regarding events and future planning with other NEOM departments.
• Play a senior, contributing role as part of the Government Affairs team by participating in all GA related areas at a strategic level.

Senior Administrative & Strategic Support

• Provide efficient, flexible, and proactive strategic support to the Executive Director and Managers.
• Provide senior assistance and strategic cover for other members of the Government Affairs Team when required.
• Prepare and deliver high-impact presentations for the department’s senior management and executive leadership.
• Initiate and drive improvements in internal department processes.
• Lead participation in strategic projects and initiatives beyond day-to-day operational tasks related to GA, representing the protocol function.
• Prepare strategic follow-on action recommendations.
• Strategically prioritize activities and ensure effective, high-level communication with relevant stakeholders.
• Provide the division manager with regular, insightful reports and statistics on project and partnership progress.

EXPERIENCE & QUALIFICATIONS

Knowledge, Skills and Experience

• 10+ years of progressive experience in a dedicated protocol, diplomatic relations, or high-level government affairs role, with a proven track record in a leadership or managerial capacity.
• Extensive and demonstrated experience operating effectively and strategically in both informal and the most highly official settings.
• Deep and broad experience in leading the planning, strategic management, and flawless execution of a wide variety of complex high-level events, including international conferences, ministerial visits, and state ceremonies.
• Expert knowledge of government stakeholder management, advanced engagement strategies, and cultivating relationships at the highest levels of government.
• Profound understanding of Saudi and Middle East culture and history, with the ability to navigate complex cultural and diplomatic situations with expertise.
• Superior oral and written communication skills in both English and Arabic.
• Significant experience in leading and coordinating complex operations with multiple vendors, government agencies, and internal senior-level teams.
• Demonstrated ability to prepare strategic reports, policy recommendations, and executive briefings.
• Extensive experience in managing high-stakes logistics such as security protocols, VIP transportation, and premium accommodation arrangements.
• Proven proficiency in preparing and delivering impactful presentations for senior management.
• Demonstrated ability to strategically prioritize activities, communicate effectively at a high level, and lead under pressure..

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in relevant field.