Head of Government Affairs and Excellence

Overview

The Head of Government International Affairs & Excellence is responsible for leading and managing all Government Affairs activities, ensuring the implementation of strategies that facilitate smooth and effective collaboration with government entities. This includes monitoring and addressing regulatory developments affecting the business, fostering constructive relationships with key stakeholders, and aligning efforts with Etihad Airways' strategic objectives.

Responsibilities

• Shape and implement a global government affairs strategy that positions Etihad Airways as an industry leader and a trusted partner to government entities worldwide.
• Drive the development of long-term policy roadmaps in collaboration with international, regional, and national regulatory bodies, ensuring alignment with Etihad's commercial and strategic priorities.
• Anticipate geopolitical and regulatory trends, providing actionable recommendations to the executive team to influence global aviation policies and market conditions.
• Strategically integrate Government Affairs initiatives with Etihad Airways' long-term corporate objectives by developing and overseeing a multi-tiered engagement framework. This framework should foster seamless coordination across global, regional, and national government entities, ensuring alignment with organizational priorities while addressing nuanced regulatory, political, and economic challenges. Additionally, establish cross-functional communication protocols that optimize stakeholder collaboration and drive policy advocacy aligned with business growth strategies.
• Cultivate and sustain high-level relationships with government officials, policymakers, and international trade bodies to foster mutual cooperation and advance Etihad's interests.
• Lead Etihad's representation in critical negotiations, bilateral agreements, and strategic alliances to secure favorable outcomes for the organization.

Ideal Candidate Profile

• Master's degree in a relevant field such as public policy, political science, international relations, or business administration.
• Additional certifications in leadership, government relations, policy analysis, or related disciplines are highly desirable.
• In-depth knowledge of UAE government frameworks, global regulatory policies, and diplomatic protocols is essential for effectively navigating complex compliance and governance challenges.
• Minimum of 12 years of progressive experience in government affairs, corporate affairs, public policy, or a similar field, with at least 5 years in a senior leadership role managing high-level stakeholders and complex projects.
• Demonstrated expertise in building and maintaining relationships with government entities, regulatory bodies, and international stakeholders at a strategic level.

About Etihad Airways

Etihad Airways, the national airline of the UAE, was formed in 2003 and quickly went on to become one of the world's leading airlines. From its home in Abu Dhabi, Etihad flies to passenger and cargo destinations in the Middle East, Africa, Europe, Asia, Australia, and North America. Together with Etihad's codeshare partners, Etihad's network offers access to hundreds of international destinations. In recent years, Etihad has received numerous awards for its superior service and products, cargo offering, loyalty programme, and more. All this ties into Etihad's ambitious Journey 2030 strategy. The airline plans to double its fleet size and triple the number of customers over the next six years as it sets out to be the airline everyone wants to fly!

Recruitment Fraud Alert

Beware of fraudulent job offers from individuals or organizations claiming to represent the Etihad group. We will never ask for personal information, bank details, or payment during the recruitment process. Interviews are conducted face-to-face or via video/telephone before any formal offer. If you are asked for money, please treat it as fraudulent.