Protocols Management Manager

Role Overview

The Protocols Management Manager is responsible for overseeing, applying, and enhancing the protocols and etiquette standards governing Jeddah Central Development Company's official ceremonies, events, and interactions with stakeholders. This role ensures that all engagements uphold the utmost professionalism and cultural respect, complying with both local and international protocol guidelines to maintain and bolster the organization's reputation.

Primary Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and refine JCDC's protocol and etiquette policies, ensuring they align with local and global standards.
• Supervise the preparation and management of official ceremonies, VIP visits, state functions, and other prominent gatherings to guarantee compliance with protocol requisites.
• Arrange seating, define order of precedence, and coordinate official communications for dignitaries, VIPs, and high-ranking officials.
• Collaborate with governmental agencies, diplomatic missions, and other external parties to harmonize protocol expectations and stipulations.
• Offer expert counsel and briefings to senior executives and event planners concerning protocol, etiquette, and cultural nuances.
• Maintain an updated record of protocol-related contacts, titles, modes of address, and organizational hierarchies.
• Design and conduct training sessions to raise awareness of protocol and etiquette for relevant JCDC employees.
• Oversee the drafting and approval of official correspondence, invitations, and communications adhering to protocol standards.
• Lead department objectives through strong leadership by setting goals, evaluating performance, and nurturing team motivation and development.
• Manage talent growth initiatives within the department, collaborating with subject matter experts to ensure workforce readiness aligned with organizational needs.
• Administer budgeting processes, consolidating and advising on departmental budgets while monitoring financial performance to flag areas for improvement or cost savings.
• Establish and administer policies, systems, procedures, governance, and controls related to Protocol Management to secure compliance, operational efficiency, and quality in service provision.
• Champion change management efforts by continuously improving department operations with awareness of global standards and evolving business contexts.
• Ensure punctual and accurate completion of all required reports, fulfilling JCDC's quality and policy criteria.

Qualifications and Experience

• Bachelor's degree in Public Relations, Communications, Hospitality Management, or a comparable discipline from an accredited institution; a Master's degree is advantageous.
• A minimum of 8 years' relevant expertise in protocol management, public relations, or a related area, including at least 3 years in a managerial capacity.

Skills and Competencies

• Deep knowledge of protocol and etiquette, including practices specific to the UAE and international frameworks.
• Strong grasp of cultural nuances and diplomatic practices relevant to the Gulf region and global stakeholders.
• Fluency in English and Arabic, both spoken and written.
• Outstanding communication and presentation skills, enabling effective interaction with dignitaries, officials, and top leadership.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite—Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook.
• Quick adaptability and eagerness to learn new organizational technologies and software tools.
• Awareness of the UAE and GCC's cultural and professional settings.
• Comprehensive understanding of market practices, relevant regulations, and laws associated with protocol and stakeholder engagement.
• Advanced technical prowess in protocol management, event coordination, and official correspondence.
• Exhibit key soft skills in line with JCDC's Competency Framework suited to the seniority of the role.