We are seeking a highly motivated and experienced Government Relations Manager to oversee and manage all government-related activities and compliance for our multinational engineering firm in Saudi Arabia. The ideal candidate will establish and maintain strong relationships with government entities to ensure seamless business operations and compliance with local regulations.
Key Responsibilities
Government Liaison:
Act as the primary point of contact between the company and government authorities.
Foster and maintain positive relationships with government agencies to facilitate approvals, permits, and licenses.
Regulatory Compliance:
Ensure the company's operations comply with local laws, regulations, and labor policies.
Monitor and interpret regulatory changes, advising management on their implications.
Documentation & Processes:
Handle all government documentation related to business registration, visas, and employee work permits.
Supervise the submission and renewal of licenses and permits (e.g., SAGIA, GOSI, ZATCA, MISA).
Problem Resolution:
Address and resolve disputes with government authorities swiftly and effectively.
Manage risks related to non-compliance and provide solutions to mitigate potential issues.
Stakeholder Engagement:
Collaborate with internal departments (HR, Legal, and Operations) to ensure government requirements are met.
Represent the company at government meetings and official events when necessary.
Qualifications & Requirements
Education: Bachelor’s degree in Public Administration, Law, Business Administration, or a related field.
Experience:
Minimum of 10 years of experience in government relations or regulatory compliance, preferably in an engineering or multinational company.
Proven track record of managing relationships with Saudi government authorities (e.g., MOL, GOSI, SAGIA, ZATCA, MISA).
Skills:
Deep understanding of Saudi Arabian labor laws and regulatory frameworks.
Exceptional communication and negotiation skills, with fluency in Arabic and English (both written and verbal).
Strong organizational and problem-solving abilities.
Proficient in using government portals and e-services (e.g., Muqeem, GOSI, Qiwa).