Executive Director, Major Sports & Events Strategy

Qiddiya | القدية; Riyadh; On-site; SAR 900,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Job summary

Qiddiya Investment Company seeks an inspirational Executive Director for the Sports Strategic Business Unit to lead the planning and coordination of major games and events in Qiddiya City, aligned with Vision 2030.

The role provides executive leadership, builds high-performing teams and oversees relationships with government entities and international federations to position Qiddiya as a premier global sports destination for events such as the Asian Games and FIFA World Cup.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Architecture, Engineering, Real Estate Development, Events.
• 15+ years of senior leadership experience in major sporting events or large-scale stakeholder management.
• Experience bidding, planning or delivering multi-sport or mega-events (e.g., Olympic Games, FIFA World Cup, Asian Games).
• Track record of developing and executing organisational strategy at executive level.
• Strong understanding of Vision 2030 and related sport, tourism and quality-of-life objectives.
• Experience building and scaling teams or new business units, including organisational design and talent development.
• Experience leading cross-functional programs and ensuring readiness for major venues/events.
• Established network and credibility with international sports bodies, governments and industry leaders.

Responsibilities

• Own the overarching strategy for the Sports SBU and Qiddiya's role in major games and events.
• Oversee engagement with international federations, organising committees and rights holders.
• Build and lead a high-performing team; ensure cross-functional alignment across Qiddiya.
• Represent Qiddiya to government entities and strategic partners at senior levels.
• Manage budgets, forecasts, and resource allocation for events readiness.
• Guide governance, planning and reporting for event readiness and interdependencies.
• Maintain stakeholder engagement plans and communication across internal and external parties.

Skills

Strategic leadership

Stakeholder management

Governance

Diplomacy

Executive presence

Cross-functional leadership

Budget oversight

Negotiation

Communication

Vision alignment

Education

Bachelor's degree in Architecture, Engineering, Real Estate Development, Events

Job description

Qiddiya Investment Company seeks an inspirational Executive Director for the Sports Strategic Business Unit to lead the planning and coordination of major games and events in Qiddiya City, aligned with Vision 2030.

The role provides executive leadership, builds high-performing teams and oversees relationships with government entities and international federations to position Qiddiya as a premier global sports destination for events such as the Asian Games and FIFA World Cup.