Director – International Relations & Cultural Diplomacy

JOB PURPOSE

Set the strategic direction and agenda for the Authority's international relations and cultural diplomacy, including targets, strategic initiatives, frameworks, programs and bilateral international agreements that promote cultural and creative exchange with regional and international partners.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

·         Lead development of strategic objectives, initiatives, programs, KPIs and targets for international relations and cultural diplomacy in line with the Authority's strategy.

·         Develop and update the department strategy and align it with government directions and Dubai's cultural vision.

·         Oversee policies, guidelines and operating procedures for international relations and diplomatic protocols.

·         Identify strategic international partners and strengthen relationships through cooperation agreements and memberships in international cultural organizations.

·         Oversee cultural-exchange programs and international participation with relevant organizational units.

·         Oversee drafting and review of international agreements and MoUs and ensure alignment with Authority priorities.

·         Ensure effective representation of the Authority at relevant international and regional events and conferences.

·         Direct studies and reports on international relations and cultural exports.

·         Evaluate the impact of international-relations and cultural-diplomacy programs and direct performance-based improvement plans.

·         Ensure compliance with official protocols and ceremonial requirements for international visitors and external representation.

·         Coordinate with government entities to align international initiatives with Dubai Government policies.

·         Maintain an international-relations database covering agreements and international partner organizations and monitor implementation of agreements and MoUs.

·         Lead risk management for international relations and proactive mitigation plans.

·         Manage department performance, budget, workforce planning, talent development and managers' objectives.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

·         Bachelor's degree in International Relations, Diplomatic Studies, Political Science, Business Administration or equivalent from an accredited university.

·         10+ years of relevant professional experience.

PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE & SKILLS

·         Ability to prepare policy, legislative and regulatory recommendations.

·         Experience managing high-impact programs and coordinating with multiple internal and external stakeholders.

·         Experience leading multidisciplinary teams and broad strategic initiatives.

·         Ability to apply sector knowledge and emerging trends to enabling strategies and policies.

COMPETENCIES

·         Leadership: Supporting and enabling change; leading and inspiring others; strategic thinking - Advanced.

·         Behavioral competencies - Advanced.

·         Technical: Strategic planning and performance management; sector knowledge and capability development - Advanced.