Executive Director of External Relations

Georgetown University in Qatar (GU-Q) is dedicated to fulfilling Georgetown University’s mission of promoting intellectual, ethical and spiritual understanding through serious and sustained discourse among people of different faiths, cultures, and beliefs. Embodying this spirit of the University, Georgetown’s Qatar campus undertakes education, research, and service in order to advance knowledge and provide students and the community with a holistic educational experience that produces global citizens committed to the service of humankind. We demonstrate the values of Georgetown University; seek to build upon the world-class reputation of the Edmund A. Walsh School of Foreign Service; and work with our partner, Qatar Foundation, in its endeavors to achieve the Qatar National Vision 2030.

Requirements

Georgetown University in Qatar (GU-Q) is seeking an experienced leader to serve as Executive Director of External Relations. Reporting to the Dean, and as member of the senior leadership team, the Executive Director will be responsible for the development and execution of GU-Q’s external relations strategy.

Key Accountabilities:

Oversee the development and implementation of GU-Q’s external relations strategy.

In collaboration with the Dean and senior leadership, identify, establish, and cultivate relationships with external stakeholders in order to advance GU-Q’s vision, mission, and strategic priorities.

Lead a team of professionals responsible for managing areas of strategic importance, including alumni relations, outreach, special events, protocol, and joint partnerships.

Key Activities:

Proactively identify and pursue opportunities that elevate GU-Q’s visibility and reputation, both locally and globally.

Collaborate with internal and external stakeholders to develop new and enhance existing externally-focused programs and initiatives.

Contribute to the management and cultivation of relationships with stakeholders, including senior executives, government officials, community leaders, and other strategic partners.

Act as a senior advisor to senior leadership on all matters related to external relations and stakeholder engagement.

Work closely with Communications to develop and implement strategies that effectively promote university programs, initiatives, and strategic priorities.

Lead the planning and execution of high-profile events, ensuring events are executed at the highest level and in compliance with institutional policies and procedures.

Ensure all external relations events are strategically relevant, and regionally appropriate.

Monitor, analyze, and report on the effectiveness of external relations strategies, and make adjustments for improvement, as needed.

Serve as a spokesperson for the university, as needed.

Remain up-to-date on industry trends and best practices, and apply relevant insights to inform organizational strategy, execution, and decision making.

Manage and oversee the work of direct reports, including setting and reviewing performance objectives, and identifying training and development needs.

Manage budgets for a broad range of external relations initiatives (including events, outreach campaigns, etc.).

Other similar duties, as assigned.

Requirements:

Master’s degree, Ph.D. preferred.

8+ years of relevant work experience; at least 5 years’ experience managing a team(s) of professionals.

Managerial experience in external relations, preferably in the higher education sector.

Experience leading complex initiatives with diverse stakeholders.

Experience in communications, public relations, and/or external affairs preferred.

Experience with event planning, marketing, and promotion preferred.

Proven ability to interact and influence at the most senior levels of an organization and to work collaboratively across departments, levels, and functions toward shared objectives.

Proven ability to exercise high levels of discretion and sound judgment.

Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to work with diverse individuals across various cultural and institutional environments.

Strong problem-solving and analytical skills.

Outstanding communication skills, including editing, writing, and public speaking.

Excellent communication skills in English and Arabic (preferred).

Expatriate Benefits:

GU-Q’s expatriate benefits package is highly competitive and includes fully-furnished housing, a monthly transportation and home leave travel allowance, health insurance (worldwide coverage), generous private school tuition support for accompanying children, and other benefits.

Relocation Support:

Moving to a new country can be a significant endeavor and GU-Q is committed to providing comprehensive relocation support. From assistance with visa processing, housing arrangements, and transportation logistics, to campus orientation and settling-in support, GU-Q will aim to ensure a smooth transition for new employees and their families.

About Qatar:

Qatar has become a hub for regional and global networks in international diplomacy, energy, finance, economics, media, and sports. A modern, thriving country in the heart of the Middle East with an ambitious development vision, it offers a high standard of living, with excellent facilities, modern infrastructure, and a mix of local and cosmopolitan culture. Its central location also makes it the ideal location for exploring Asian, African, and European destinations. More information can be found here.

Current Georgetown Employees:

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Submission Guidelines:

Please note that in order to be considered an applicant for any position at Georgetown University in Qatar, you must submit a resume/CV for each position of interest. Documents are not kept on file for future positions.

Need Assistance:

Need some assistance with the application process? Contact us at .

EEO Statement:

Georgetown University is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer fully dedicated to achieving a diverse faculty and staff. All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply and will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, age, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity and expression, and sexual orientation), disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Benefits:

Georgetown University offers a wide variety of comprehensive and competitive benefits. Benefits packages include comprehensive health, dental and vision plans, disability and life insurance coverage, retirement savings programs, tuition assistance, voluntary insurance options (including group legal, accident, and critical illness), and much more. Whatever your need, the Office of Faculty and Staff Benefits will be standing by to support you. You can learn more about the benefits offered to eligible faculty and staff at or view the online interactive benefits guide for more information.

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