Partnerships Associate (Emiratisation)

About the Role

Chalhoub Group, a leading luxury retailer in the region, is seeking a proactive Emirati professional to join as a Partnerships Associate within their dedicated Partnerships team. This role entails building and nurturing vital relationships with government and semi-government entities to support business operations and ensure smooth collaboration across the UAE.

Reporting to the Managing Director of the UAE, the candidate will interface with diverse stakeholders, facilitate necessary approvals, and contribute to long-term business continuity. This dynamic, field-oriented position involves close coordination with senior leadership and cross-functional teams.

Key Responsibilities

• Establish and sustain trusted partnerships with government bodies, semi-government institutions, and strategic external organizations.
• Collaborate with municipalities, economic departments, tourism authorities, ministries, embassies, free zones, and regulatory agencies.
• Work in tandem with the Government Relations department to address business and operational demands.
• Manage permits, licenses, approvals, meetings, and official documentation as needed.
• Support business initiatives through coordination of internal and external stakeholders.
• Serve as a liaison bridging business leaders, brands, and external partners.
• Represent Chalhoub Group at meetings, networking opportunities, business forums, and stakeholder events.
• Drive partnership-strengthening initiatives that generate sustainable growth prospects.
• Ensure efficient follow-up and coordination pertaining to external stakeholder engagement in operational issues.
• Participate in projects aimed at enhancing cooperation with strategic partners throughout the UAE.

Working Relationships

• Internal: Group Leadership, Government Relations, Commercial Teams, Brand Teams, Retail Operations, Business Support Functions.
• External: Government and semi-governmental entities, Dubai and UAE Police Authorities, municipalities, economic development departments, tourism authorities, Ministry of Economy and Foreign Trade, embassies, JAFZA and port authorities, strategic business partners.

Required Qualifications and Skills

• UAE National (verified through Family Book).
• Bachelor’s degree in disciplines such as Business Administration, International Relations, Public Administration, Communications, Political Science, or related fields.
• Applicants may be fresh graduates or possess up to two years of relevant experience.
• Fluency in Arabic (speaking, reading, writing) and proficient English communication skills.
• Strong interpersonal abilities and adeptness in relationship-building.
• High level of professionalism, discretion, and emotional intelligence.
• Confident engagement with senior leaders and external parties.
• Well-organized with meticulous attention to detail and effective follow-through.
• Adaptability to manage varying priorities within a fast-paced setting.
• Interest or background in government relations, partnerships, public affairs, or stakeholder engagement is advantageous.
• Previous experience in customer-facing roles, retail, partnerships, or government relations is beneficial.
• Completion of UAE National Service is preferred for male candidates.

Work Environment and Style

• Primarily office-based with regular field travel across Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
• Engagement at government offices, shopping malls, business partner sites, and other meeting venues.
• Flexibility to operate in multiple locations depending on business needs.
• Willingness to start early when coordinating with government entities.
• Visibility and responsiveness throughout working hours are essential.

What This Opportunity Offers

• Close collaboration with senior executives across Chalhoub Group.
• Building extensive relationships with key government and strategic partners.
• Insight into operations behind one of the largest luxury retail groups in the region.
• Development of expertise in stakeholder management, business enablement, and public sector cooperation.
• Strong foundation for a career in partnerships, government relations, corporate affairs, or commercial leadership.

Success Indicators in the First Year

• Establish robust relationships with government and external stakeholders.
• Gain comprehensive understanding of Group-wide business functions’ needs.
• Manage permits, approvals, and stakeholder engagements independently.
• Become a reliable partner both internally and externally.
• Exemplify professionalism, dependability, and sound judgment consistently.
• Represent the Group with confidence and integrity at all times.