Government Relations Lead

IMI is a privately-owned, global media group headquartered in Abu Dhabi, UAE, with operations across 19 countries. Our portfolio includes renowned media brands such as Sky News Arabia as part of a joint venture with Sky UK, The National, Al-Ain News, CNN Business Arabic, and a minority stake in Euronews.

Additionally, through Redbird IMI, our joint venture with Redbird Capital Partners, we invest in leading media, sports, and entertainment brands worldwide. We bring the world closer by sharing stories that open minds, connect people, and enrich lives, empowering audiences with news, knowledge, and factual entertainment.

Role Summary:

The Government Relations Lead is responsible for overseeing and directing all activities within the Government Relations Department. This role involves developing and implementing government relations strategies and policies, managing key relationships with government stakeholders, and ensuring the company's interests are effectively represented. The Government Relations Lead will provide strategic guidance to the team, collaborate across departments, and contribute to the seamless operation of government relations and logistics functions, ensuring alignment with the company's overall objectives.

Key Responsibilities:

Government Relations Strategy & Coordination

• Lead and direct all activities within the Government Relations team, fostering smooth communication and coordination between the company and government authorities.
• Develop and implement government relations strategies that align with the company's objectives, ensuring full compliance with local regulations.
• Serve as the primary interface between the company and government organizations, authorities, and consulates.
• Establish and maintain strong relationships with key government stakeholders, including immigration, labor, and other relevant agencies.
• Provide strategic guidance and support to senior management on government relations matters, ensuring alignment with overall corporate goals.

Employee & Dependent Affairs

• Oversee the processes for obtaining and renewing employee work permits, residency visas, and other government-required documentation.
• Ensure compliance with all regulations related to employee and dependent visa processing and renewals.
• Manage the cancellation and repatriation process for employees and their dependents, ensuring a smooth and compliant exit.
• Supervise and guide the Public Relations Officer in efficiently managing employee visa and documentation tasks, ensuring timely completion and adherence to deadlines.

Business Facilitation & Licensing

• Administer company licenses and permits, including renewals, submissions, and compliance with relevant authorities such as the Economic Department and Ministry of Finance.
• Liaise with foreign embassies and diplomatic missions to facilitate business visits and entry visas for international visitors.
• Oversee the coordination of business-related permits and documentation with the UAE Immigration Department and other local authorities.
• Monitor government policy and regulatory changes to ensure the company remains up to date and compliant with new rules.

Regulatory Compliance & Monitoring

• Stay informed about changes in regulations and legislation that could impact the business and its employees.
• Ensure all government-related tasks are executed in compliance with local laws, particularly those concerning labor, immigration, and business licensing.
• Supervise the preparation and submission of regulatory documents, reports, and updates to government authorities.

Team Leadership & Development

• Manage and provide guidance to the Government Relations team, including the Public Relations Officer and other government relations staff.
• Foster a collaborative and efficient environment within the team, supporting employees through training and development opportunities.
• Evaluate and monitor team performance, ensuring compliance with key processes and meeting deadlines.

General Administrative & Operational Support

• Provide strategic oversight for all government-related administrative functions and activities within the company.
• Assist in preparing reports, presentations, and communication for senior leadership, highlighting government relations activities and developments.
• Ensure efficient and timely execution of administrative tasks related to government relations, including managing documents, records, and correspondence.

Ad-hoc and Additional Responsibilities

• Take on special projects or assignments as directed by management that may not fall within the typical job description.
• Provide support to other departments or teams as needed, assisting with tasks that contribute to overall business success.
• Perform any other duties or responsibilities as assigned by senior leadership to meet organizational needs.

Job Requirements:

• Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Public Relations, or a related field (Master's degree preferred).
• 710 years of proven experience in a senior government relations or public affairs role, with a strong understanding of UAE laws, regulations, and government processes.
• In-depth knowledge of government processes related to labor, immigration, business licensing, and visa management.
• Proven leadership skills with the ability to effectively manage and motivate a team.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, both written and verbal, with fluency in Arabic and English.
• Strong organizational skills, with a keen attention to detail and the ability to prioritize and manage multiple tasks efficiently in a fast-paced environment.
• Ability to navigate complex government procedures and build effective relationships with stakeholders at various levels.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, particularly Excel, Word, and PowerPoint, with strong capability to create detailed reports and professional presentations.