Government Relations Manager

The individual will be a highly motivated and experienced Emirati national responsible for overseeing all interactions between our organization and UAE government entities. This is a hands-on leadership role requiring in-depth knowledge of UAE regulations particularly labor law and licensing requirements. The manager will be a key resource for the organization ensuring full compliance and proactive engagement with government stakeholders. The individual will drive a shift from transactional to proactive service delivery including digitizing and optimizing processes.Key ResponsibilitiesStrategic Government EngagementDevelop and execute a comprehensive government relations strategy aligned with company objectives.Proactively identify and build relationships with key government stakeholders and regulatory bodies at both federal and local levels including all relevant ministries departments and free zone authorities.Represent the organization in all official government meetings committees and forums.Monitor and analyze new legislative and regulatory developments providing strategic recommendations to senior management.Maintain a strong network of contacts within various government departments.Labor Law & ComplianceServe as the internal subject matter expert on UAE Labour Law and Immigration procedures.Ensure full organizational compliance with all labor regulations policies and decrees.Oversee all labor and immigration-related documentation and processes including visa applications labor contracts work permits and residency permits for new and existing employees.Provide guidance to HR and management on employee relations disciplinary actions and termination procedures in accordance with UAE Labour Law.Manage and resolve any labor disputes with government authorities.Licensing & Regulatory AffairsOversee all company licensing renewals amendments and approvals from various government bodies.Manage the end-to-end process for obtaining and maintaining all necessary permits and certifications for business operations.Ensure timely submission of all required documentation to avoid penalties.Maintain a complete and current repository of all licenses and regulatory documents.Systems & Operations ManagementDirectly manage and utilize all relevant government online portals and systems including but not limited to ICP Tasheel Amer Dubai Now and various Free Zone portals.Implement efficient internal processes for managing government relations tasks and document flow.Evaluate and recommend new software or tools to improve department efficiency.Team LeadershipLead mentor and develop the government relations team.Foster a proactive and collaborative team environment.Delegate tasks effectively and provide constructive feedback.Reporting & CommunicationProvide regular reports to senior management on all government relations activities successes and challenges.Communicate effectively and coordinate with internal departments (HR Legal Finance) on all government-related matters.Draft and review official correspondence and applications for government submission.QualificationsBachelors degree in business administration Law Public Relations Political Science or a related field.DesirableAdditional certification in HR or Labour LawAdditional Information7 years experience with at least 2 years as a manager in a GR department.Remote WorkNoEmployment TypeFull-time#J-18808-Ljbffr