Protocol Management Manager
To manage, implement, and continuously enhance protocol and etiquette standards that govern JCDC's official ceremonies, events, and stakeholder engagements by ensuring all interactions reflect the highest standards of professionalism and cultural sensitivity in alignment with local and international protocol guidelines to protect and strengthen the organization's image and reputation.
Key Accountabilities:
- Develop, implement, and continuously improve JCDC's protocol and etiquette guidelines to ensure alignment with local and international standards.
- Oversee the planning and execution of official ceremonies, VIP visits, state functions, and high-profile events, ensuring all protocol requirements are met.
- Coordinate seating arrangements, order of precedence, and official correspondence for dignitaries, VIPs, and senior officials.
- Liaise with government entities, diplomatic missions, and external stakeholders to align on protocol requirements and expectations.
- Provide expert advice and briefings to senior leadership and event organizers on protocol, etiquette, and cultural considerations.
- Maintain and update a database of protocol contacts, titles, forms of address, and organizational hierarchies.
- Develop and deliver training programs and awareness sessions on protocol and etiquette for relevant JCDC staff.
- Manage the preparation and review of official correspondence, invitations, and communications in accordance with protocol standards.
People Management
- Manage the effective achievement of departmental objectives through effective leadership, setting individual objectives, managing performance, and developing and motivating the team to maximize performance.
- Lead the talent development initiatives for the assigned department, collaborating with discipline experts and ensuring talent availability to fit business requirements.
Budgeting and Financial Performance
- Oversee the consolidation and recommend the department budget and monitor financial performance versus the budget so that the business is aware of anticipated costs/revenues, areas of unsatisfactory performance are identified, and potential areas of cost reduction or performance improvement opportunities are capitalized upon.
Policies, Systems, Processes & Procedures
- Develop and lead the implementation of Protocol Management policies, systems, processes, procedures, governance mechanisms, and controls to ensure compliance, operational efficiency, consistency, and quality of service delivery.
Change Management
- Lead the management of change through continuous improvement of department systems, processes, and practices considering global standards and changes in the business environment, which demand proactive action plans.
Reporting
- Ensure that all sectional reports are prepared timely and accurately and meet JCDC requirements, policies, and quality standards.
Qualification, Experience, & Skills:
Bachelor's degree in Public Relations, Communications, Hospitality Management, or a related field from a reputable university. Master's degree is preferred.
8 years of relevant experience in protocol management, public relations, or a related field — 3 years in a managerial role.
Job-Specific Skills (Generic / Technical):
- In-depth knowledge of protocol and etiquette standards, including local UAE and international practices.
- Strong understanding of cultural sensitivities and diplomatic norms relevant to the region and global stakeholder engagements.
- Excellent use of English (must) and Arabic language (must).
- Excellent verbal and written communication and presentation skills, with the ability to effectively engage dignitaries, officials, and senior leadership.
- Proficiency in using Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook).
- Ability to quickly learn and adapt to new technology tools and software used within the organization.
- Demonstrates understanding of the cultural and professional environment in the UAE and the GCC region.
- In-depth understanding of applicable market practices, regulations, and laws related to protocol and stakeholder engagement.
- Mastery of technical skills related to protocol management, event coordination, and official correspondence.
- Demonstrate proficiency in essential soft skills as per JCDC Competency Framework based on the role's level of responsibility.
