Protocols Lead

 COMPANY OVERVIEW                                                                                                             

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 Protocols Lead will establish government protocol procedures and provide efficient support to the Executive Director and Managers within Government Affairs, focusing on the planning and execution of official engagements, events, and ensuring proper etiquette. This role involves comprehensive event management, stakeholder coordination, and administrative assistance to the Government Affairs team.

REQUIREMENTS SUMMARY

• Proven ability to work effectively in both informal and highly official settings.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, both verbal and written in English and Arabic.
• Knowledgeable of Government stakeholder management practices.
• Understanding of Saudi and Middle East culture and history.
• Demonstrates a high standard of character and conduct.
• Ability to remain effective under pressure.
• Responsible, goal-oriented, highly organized with excellent time management skills.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to multitask.
• Capability to build and maintain effective communications with diverse project stakeholders.
• Demonstrates high flexibility, commitment, and accessibility.

ROLE COMPETENCIES & ACTIVITIES

Protocols Lead responsibilities will include, but not be limited to:

  Event Planning & Execution

• Plan, arrange and implement conferences, meetings, ceremonial events, and functions in their entirety.
• Support the operational planning and event operations of unique events and experiences.
• Assist with the development of a long-term events strategy and planning for future years.
• Manage all aspects of event planning from start to finish, including hiring vendors, assisting with vendor familiarization, managing set up and tear down, and vendor demobilization.
• Assist in the management of operational planning through the development of specific event plans.
• Coordinate operations with vendors, agencies, and event teams, specifying roles and responsibilities across operational teams (Security, Mobility, Logistics, Accommodations, Marketing, event staff, etc.).
•  Assist in writing post-event reports to inform on best practices and lessons learned.
•  Lead communication regarding events and future planning with other NEOM departments.

 Protocol & Stakeholder Management

• Build government protocol procedures and ensure proper etiquette for official engagements.
• Respond to enquiries raised by senior management appropriately.
•  Assist in the management of stakeholder relationships prior to, during, and after events.
•  Represent organization events and arrange gifts for distinguished guests.
•  Ensure special amenities are provided for visitors.
•  Arrange transportation, security, and housing accommodations.
•  Lead communication regarding events and future planning with other NEOM departments.
•  Be part of the Government affairs team by participating in all GA related areas.

  Administrative & Support

• Provide efficient, flexible, and proactive support to the Executive Director and Managers.
• Assist and provide cover for other members of the Government Affairs Team.
• Prepare presentations for the department’s management.
•  Suggest improvements in internal department processes.
•  Participate in projects and initiatives beyond day-to-day operational tasks related to GA.
•  Prepare follow-on action recommendations.
•  Prioritize activities and communicate with relevant stakeholders.
•  Provide the division manager with regular reports and statistics on project and partnership progress.

Culture and Values

• Embrace NEOM’s culture and Values https://www.neom.com/en-us/about
• Act with honesty and integrity by following best practices, and upholding the robust standards and expectations set out in NEOM’s Code of Conduct.
• Maintain fair, ethical and professional work practices in accordance with NEOM’s Values and Code of Conduct.

EXPERIENCE & QUALIFICATIONS

Knowledge, Skills and Experience

• 5+ years of experience in relevant field.
• Demonstrated experience working effectively in both informal and highly official settings.
• Extensive experience in planning, arranging, and implementing a variety of events, including conferences, meetings, and ceremonial functions.
• Proven knowledge of Government stakeholder management and engagement strategies.
• Strong understanding of Saudi and Middle East culture and history, with the ability to navigate diverse social situations.
•  Excellent oral and written communication skills in both English and Arabic.

•  Experience in coordinating with vendors, agencies, and internal teams for seamless event operations.
•  Ability to prepare detailed reports and recommendations.
•  Experience in managing logistics such as transportation, security, and accommodation.

•  Proficiency in preparing presentations for management.
•  Demonstrated ability to prioritize activities, communicate effectively, and work under pressure.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in relevant field.