Overview of the Position
The Community Engagement and Events Specialist will be a dynamic and organized individual responsible for fostering strong relationships between Dhahran Techno Valley (DTV) tenants and the broader innovation and entrepreneurship community, as well as planning and executing a range of impactful events. This role involves developing and implementing strategies to engage community members, build trust, and showcase the Innovation District's activities and achievements through well-organized and engaging events. The Specialist will work closely with various stakeholders, including residents, local businesses, community organizations, educational institutions, and internal teams, to create a vibrant and inclusive environment that benefits both the Innovation District and the surrounding community.
Duties and Responsibilities
- Community Outreach and Engagement Strategy:
- Develop and implement a comprehensive community engagement strategy aligned with the Innovation District's overall goals.
- Identify key community stakeholders and develop tailored engagement plans for each group.
- Organize and facilitate community meetings, workshops, and information sessions to provide updates, gather feedback, and build relationships.
- Relationship Building and Management:
- Serve as a primary point of contact for community members and organizations.
- Build and maintain strong, positive relationships with local residents, community leaders, and representatives from local businesses and organizations.
- Act as a liaison between the Innovation District and the community, ensuring effective communication and addressing any concerns.
- Event Planning and Execution:
- Plan, organize, and execute a variety of events, including community open houses, workshops, seminars, networking events, showcases of innovation, and celebrations of district achievements.
- Develop event budgets, timelines, and logistics plans, ensuring events are delivered effectively and within budget.
- Coordinate with internal teams, vendors, and external partners to ensure seamless event execution.
- Manage event registration, promotion, and on-site logistics.
- Program Development and Collaboration (including Events):
- Develop and implement community-focused programs and initiatives, including events, that align with the Innovation District's objectives and benefit the local community (e.g., educational outreach events, local business showcases within the district).
- Collaborate with local organizations and institutions to create joint events and initiatives.
- Explore opportunities for community members to participate in events and activities within the Innovation District.
- Communication and Promotion (for Community Engagement and Events):
- Develop and disseminate clear and accessible information about the Innovation District's activities and events to the local community through various channels (e.g., newsletters, website updates, social media, community bulletin boards).
- Create promotional materials for events to maximize community participation.
- Partnership Development (for Community Engagement and Events):
- Identify and cultivate partnerships with local businesses, community organizations, and educational institutions to support community engagement and event initiatives.
- Work with partners to sponsor / co-host events and leverage their networks and resources.
- Feedback and Evaluation (for Community Engagement and Events):
- Establish mechanisms for gathering community feedback on engagement activities and events.
- Evaluate the effectiveness of community engagement initiatives and events and make recommendations for improvement.
- Reporting and Documentation:
- Maintain records of community engagement activities, partnerships, and feedback, as well as event plans, budgets, and outcomes.
Prepare regular reports on community engagement and event efforts and outcomes for the Innovation District management team
Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in community development, public relations, communications, marketing, event management, or a related field.
- 8- 10 years of experience in community engagement, outreach, stakeholder management, and event planning/management, preferably within the Eastern Province or Saudi Arabia.
- Demonstrated ability to build and maintain strong relationships with diverse community stakeholders.
- Proven experience in planning and executing successful community-focused events.
- Excellent communication, interpersonal, presentation, and negotiation skills.
- Strong organizational, project management, and time management skills.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
- Familiarity with the local community in the Eastern Province, including its cultural nuances and key organizations.
- fluency in Arabic and English is highly preferred.
- Understanding of the principles of community development and social impact.
- Preferred Skills and Experience:
- Experience working with innovation districts, educational institutions, or economic development agencies.
- Knowledge of local government structures and community resources in the Eastern Province.
- Experience in developing and implementing community engagement and event strategies.
- Skills in using digital communication and event management tools.
- Experience in managing event budgets and vendors.
