Head of Government Relations | Al Futtaim Automotive | Electric Mobility
- Riyadh, Saudi ArabiaPosted 1 month ago 1 open position Experience Needed: Not Specified Education Level: Not Specified Job Details
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Job Requisition ID: [[158573]]Established in the 1930s as a trading business, Al-Futtaim Group today is one of the most diversified and progressive, privately held regional businesses headquartered in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. Structured into five operating divisions; automotive, financial services, real estate, retail and healthcare; employing more than 35,000 employees across more than 20 countries in the Middle East, Asia and Africa, Al-Futtaim Group partners with over 200 of the world's most admired and innovative brands. Al-Futtaim Group’s entrepreneurship and relentless customer focus enables the organization to continue to grow and expand; responding to the changing needs of our customers within the societies in which we operate.By upholding our values of respect, excellence, collaboration and integrity; Al-Futtaim Group continues to enrich the lives and aspirations of our customers each and every dayOverview of the role:The Head of Government Relations is a strategic role in the Al-Futtaim Automotive – Electric Mobility, focused on building and maintaining strong relationships with government entities and stakeholders in the KSA. This position is crucial for facilitating the company's retail, after-sales services, including spare parts, service, and body and paint repair activities, by ensuring compliance with government regulations, influencing policy-making, and representing the company's interests at various levels of government.What you will do: Government Liaison:Act as the primary point of contact between the Al-Futtaim Automotive – Electric Mobility business units and various government bodies. Develop and maintain relationships with key government officials, departments, and agencies related to the automotive sector. Establish and maintain efficient communication channels to ensure that all interactions with government and semi-government bodies are conducted through well-managed, clear, and professional approach. This involves overseeing the entire communication process, from initial contact to follow-ups and final resolutions, which includes (but not limited to) contracts, tenders, and letters across all Al Futtaim Automotive KSA businesses.Policy Influence and Group Compliance:Monitor and analyse government policies and regulations affecting the automotive industry. Influence policy-making processes to favour the company’s interests and ensure compliance with local laws and regulations in all business activities.Business Development:Contribute to business development for all Al-Futtaim Automotive KSA businesses by ensuring their participation in KSA government & semi government tenders for relevant automotive products & services. Work with cross-functional teams of attorneys, business leaders, customers, and other government relations team members to develop creative solutions that incorporate government relations into business problem solving. Play a key role in supporting the businesses in evaluating the most advantageous locations to establish local presence in the KSA. Ensuring all pertinent Al-Futtaim Electric Mobility businesses are registered on all relevant government portals for purposes of tendering for new requirements.Strategic Advice:Support the department head with the provision of strategic advice to the leadership on government relations matters. Develop strategies to leverage government relationships for business advantage, particularly in automotive retail and after-sales servicesIssue Management:Identify and manage issues arising from government policies or regulations that could impact the company's operations. Mediate on disputes, permits, fines, and collection related challenges with government entities. Develop and implement strategies to address these issues effectively.Stakeholder Engagement:Engage with key stakeholders, including industry associations, chambers of commerce, and other relevant organizations, to build alliances and represent the company's interests.Internal Collaboration:Work closely with internal departments such as legal, compliance, marketing, and operations to ensure alignment of government relations strategies with overall business objectives.Reporting and Documentation:Maintain comprehensive records of all government interactions, policies monitored, and strategies implemented. Prepare regular reports for senior management on government relations activities and developmentsRequired skills to be successful:Proven experience in government relations, administration, public affairs or a similar roleIn-depth knowledge of the specific government services and processes in Saudi Arabia, political landscape, and governmental structures including not limited to GOSI, Qiwa, Muqeem, Iqama, Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) and othersStrong network of contacts within government agencies and relevant industry associations Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively with internal and external stakeholdersStrong Personal skills such as problem-solving skills and ability to navigate complex government-related processesAbout the Team:This role will be reporting directly to the Managing Director – KSA and collaborate closely with internal departments, including Sales, Legal, Marketing and other department to ensure alignment in messaging and compliance with government regulations.What equips you for the role:Bachelor's or master’s degree in political science, law, business administration, or related fields.Minimum Experience: 10 years with prior exposure to GR/Sustainability rolesJob-Specific Skills:Extensive experience in government relations, public affairs, or a related field, preferably in the automotive or related industries.In-depth understanding of the KSA’s political environment, government structure, and regulatory framework.Excellent networking, negotiation, and interpersonal skills.Strong analytical and strategic thinking abilities.Proficient in communication, both written and oral, in English and Arabic.Ability to work independently and manage multiple projects simultaneously.Behavioural Competencies:This is a relationship building career therefore a strong client / stakeholder focus and the ability to interact with senior leadership is important. Ideal candidates are self-starters, team players and have excellent written and oral communication skills.About Al-Futtaim Automotive:A major division of the UAE-based Al-Futtaim Group of companies, Al-Futtaim Automotive is an industry leader with presence in 10 countries across the Middle East, Asia and Africa. Our core business activities at Al-Futtaim Automotive include distribution, manufacturing, leasing and aftersales, and we are firmly established as the regional representative of some of the world’s most iconic automotive brands: Toyota, Lexus, Honda, Jeep, Chrysler, Dodge, Volvo and RAM as well as EV brands.We are driven by a customer-centric approach, constantly pushing the boundaries on innovation, quality standards, and value-added service across our vast universe of customers - right from motoring enthusiasts to fleet operators to contractors. Our mission is to become the leader in custom-made mobility solutions by delivering nothing less than world-class omni-channel experiences. We channel our local expertise and global trust to deliver one of the most comprehensive portfolios of mobility products and solutions, from passenger cars to SUVs, electric vehicles to high-performance motorbikes, commercial vehicles to industrial & construction equipment.What keeps the company moving forward is a 9000-member strong team, with inspiring possibilities for growth, throughout the career path. This
