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.

• 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.

• 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).