General Manager - Qiddiya Performing Arts Centre

Qiddiya Performing Arts Centre (QPAC) is set to become one of the most significant cultural destinations in the Middle East, forming a flagship component of Qiddiya City—Saudi Arabia’s landmark entertainment, sports and culture destination aligned to Vision 2030.

QPAC will be a world‑class venue for live performance, creativity and cultural exchange, delivering exceptional experiences for local, regional and international audiences. This is a rare opportunity to lead a landmark institution at its formative stage and shape a globally recognised World-Class performing arts destination from the ground up.

The Role

The General Managerwill have full responsibility for the strategic, operational and artistic leadership of QPAC. Reporting to senior stakeholders within Qiddiya Investment Company, the General Manager will define the long‑term vision for the venue, establish its operating model, and lead the organisation through opening and into steady‑state operations.

This role requires a balance of commercial acumen, cultural leadership and operational excellence, alongside the ability to build strong partnerships locally and internationally.

Strategic & Executive Leadership

• Define and deliver a compelling long‑term vision and strategy for QPAC, aligned with Saudi Arabia’s cultural ambitions and Vision 2030
• Position QPAC as a globally recognised performing arts destination
• Establish strong governance, leadership structures and organisational culture

Operational Excellence

• Lead all aspects of venue operations, including technical production, guest experience, commercial activities and facilities management
• Ensure world‑class service standards and a customer‑first culture
• Oversee compliance with all regulatory, licensing and governance requirements

Financial & Commercial Leadership

• Lead financial planning, budgeting and performance management
• Maximise commercial performance across ticketing, food & beverage, retail, international partnerships, sponsorships and venue hire
• Oversee contractual negotiations and management of key partners and franchise operators

Artistic Vision & Programming

• Lead the creative leadership to curate a diverse, high‑quality programme spanning local, regional and international content
• Champion innovation, inclusion and cultural authenticity while appealing to global audiences

 Stakeholder & External Engagement

• Act as the senior external representative for QPAC with government entities, cultural institutions, artists and partners
• Build long‑term international relationships that enhance QPAC’s reputation and impact
• Position QPAC as a hub for cultural participation, education and community engagement

People & Culture

• Build, lead and inspire a high‑performing executive and leadership team
• Attract, develop and retain world‑class talent
• Foster a culture of excellence, creativity, accountability and continuous improvement

Experience & Qualifications

• Significant senior leadership experience (typically 10–15+ years) within international performing arts, cultural institutions, major venues, entertainment, or comparable large‑scale organisations
• Proven track record in strategy development, operational leadership and stakeholder management
• Strong commercial and financial capability, with experience managing complex P&Ls
• Experience working in, or with, the Middle East and an understanding of Saudi Arabia’s cultural landscape is highly advantageous

Personal Attributes

• Visionary, culturally aware and inspirational leader
• Commercially astute with strong decision‑making capability
• Excellent communicator, able to engage diverse stakeholders at the highest level
• Resilient, adaptable and comfortable operating in a dynamic, high‑growth environment
• Passionate about the arts, culture and live performance