Government Relations & Public Affairs Specialist

Role Overview

The Government Relations & Public Affairs Specialist is tasked with overseeing all interactions between the company and government bodies, including regulatory compliance and licensing activities to support operational and strategic goals. This role acts as the main contact for government agencies, embassies, consulates, and other external parties to ensure timely handling of government transactions, licenses, permits, visas, and approvals.

Key Responsibilities

• Serve as the central liaison for government entities, regulatory bodies, embassies, consulates, and public organizations.
• Build and nurture effective relationships with government officials and stakeholders.
• Represent the company in official meetings, visits, conferences, and engagements with regulatory agencies.
• Manage communication and correspondence between the company and governmental organizations.
• Assist senior management with stakeholder engagement activities, presentations, speeches, and public affairs.
• Organize and coordinate visits by diplomatic delegations, government officials, and VIP guests at company sites.
• Attend external industry events and provide feedback and recommendations.
• Handle all processes related to licenses, permits, certifications, registrations, including application, renewal, amendments, and cancellations vital for business operations.
• Ensure punctual processing and renewal of commercial licenses, operating permits, event licenses, and regulatory certificates.
• Liaise with government authorities to obtain necessary approvals and regulatory clearances, escalating issues to avoid business disruption.
• Keep comprehensive records and track expiration dates for all permits and licenses to maintain compliance.
• Administer all employee-related government services such as work and visit visas, exit/re-entry visas, iqama issuance and renewal, passport renewals, sponsorship transfers, and employee registrations.
• Coordinate visa applications and renewals for employees, visitors, contractors, and guests, ensuring adherence to labor and immigration laws.
• Utilize government electronic platforms like GOSI, MOI, MOFA, MHRSD, Muqeem, Qiwa, Absher, and others to manage transactions and compliance.
• Monitor regulatory changes and advise management on implications impacting operations.
• Prepare and submit mandatory reports including Saudization and workforce data.
• Develop partnerships with strategic stakeholders and coordinate internally and externally to promote compliance and business continuity.
• Plan and manage corporate events, conferences, official visits, and stakeholder meetings, including logistics and protocol coordination.
• Maintain detailed and secure records of all government-related activities and communications.
• Provide regular updates and reports on government relations, licensing status, compliance, and stakeholder interactions.

Qualifications & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Public Administration, Political Science, Law, International Relations, Human Resources, or related fields.
• At least 7 years of relevant experience in government relations, public affairs, regulatory affairs, licensing, or PRO services.
• Demonstrated ability to manage relations with ministries, government bodies, embassies, consulates, and municipalities.
• Strong understanding of labor, immigration, residency regulations, licensing, and compliance requirements.
• Proficiency in handling government electronic portals and administrative processes.

Additional Information

The job location is onsite in Saudi Arabia. The deadline to apply is one month from the date of posting.