Associate Director – Government Summits & Strategic Events

About This Role

Application Deadline: 30 June 2026

Department: Operations & Delivery

Location: Riyadh

Description We are seeking a hands-on and delivery-focused Associate Director to support the planning and execution of high-profile international government summits and conferences primarily in Saudi Arabia and the UAE.

This role is firmly operational, requiring someone who understands what it takes on the ground to deliver events involving global leaders, Ministers, and VIPs balancing protocol, logistics, and stakeholder expectations to ensure everything runs smoothly in real time.

Key Responsibilities

• Support the Director in planning and delivering complex government summits end-to-end, from early-stage planning through to on-site execution and post-event follow-up
• Take ownership of multiple live projects, ensuring day-to-day progress, coordination, and delivery milestones are met
• Work closely with internal teams, government entities, and partners to translate high-level objectives into practical event plans and actions
• Manage senior stakeholders, including Ministers, Heads of Government/State, and C-suite leaders, ensuring clear communication, responsiveness, and attention to detail
• Oversee on-site delivery, including managing run-of-show, troubleshooting issues, and ensuring a seamless VIP and delegate experience
• Support the development of partnerships and stakeholder relationships that contribute to successful event delivery
• Monitor budgets and resources closely, ensuring efficient use of funds and alignment with delivery requirements
• Contribute to team coordination and support junior team members to ensure consistent, high-quality execution

Skills, Knowledge And Expertise

• Proven experience delivering international government events on the ground, involving Ministers, Heads of Government/State, or equivalent senior officials
• Strong working knowledge of event operations, logistics, and protocol in high-level environments
• Experience managing multiple stakeholders and moving parts under tight timelines
• Confident handling live event environments, with the ability to problem-solve quickly and effectively
• Solid experience in budget tracking, supplier coordination, and operational planning
• Comfortable working in fast-paced, high-pressure settings with high visibility

Personal Attributes

• Practical, proactive, and comfortable being on the ground and close to delivery
• Highly organised with strong attention to detail
• Calm under pressure with a solutions-focused mindset
• Professional, discreet, and confident working with senior stakeholders
• Team-oriented, with a willingness to step in and support wherever needed

Desirable

• Experience working in or with the Middle East region
• Understanding of government processes, protocol, and stakeholder expectations
• Experience supporting partnerships or sponsors within a government or public-private setting
• Exposure to large-scale or hybrid international events