Executive Director - Development (Del 1)

Position Overview

Qiddiya Investment Company is at the forefront of redefining entertainment and leisure experiences in the Middle East, and we are seeking a dynamic and visionary Executive Director - Development to lead our ambitious theme park initiatives. This pivotal leadership role will be instrumental in transforming our strategic vision into world-class, immersive theme park destinations that captivate global audiences. As the Executive Director of Development, you will spearhead the end-to-end lifecycle of these transformative projects, from initial concept and meticulous design to rigorous construction and seamless launch phases. Your expertise will be critical in ensuring that each development not only meets but exceeds the highest standards of innovation, quality, safety, and guest satisfaction.

Key Responsibilities

In this high-impact role, you will be responsible for driving the strategic direction and execution of Qiddiya’s theme park developments. Your core responsibilities will include:

• Strategic Leadership: Develop and implement comprehensive, forward-thinking strategies that align with Qiddiya’s long-term vision and operational goals, ensuring the successful delivery of each theme park project.
• Project Execution: Lead multidisciplinary teams, including planners, designers, engineers, and construction professionals, through every phase of the project lifecycle—from conceptualization and design to construction, commissioning, and launch.
• Financial and Operational Oversight: Manage project budgets, timelines, and resources with precision, ensuring that all developments are delivered on schedule and within allocated financial parameters without compromising on quality or innovation.
• Creative Collaboration: Partner with master planners, architects, engineers, and creative teams to conceptualize and refine innovative, immersive, and unforgettable theme park experiences that resonate with diverse audiences.
• Compliance and Safety: Uphold the highest standards of safety, regulatory compliance, and industry best practices throughout all stages of development, ensuring a secure environment for both guests and employees.
• Stakeholder Engagement: Foster strong relationships with key stakeholders, including government entities, strategic partners, and community representatives, to build collaborative partnerships that support the successful realization of each project.
• Continuous Improvement: Champion a culture of innovation by driving continuous improvement in project delivery methodologies, sustainability initiatives, and guest experience standards, ensuring Qiddiya remains a leader in the industry.
• Leadership and Mentorship: Provide strategic guidance and mentorship to high-performing teams, cultivating an environment of excellence, accountability, and creativity that empowers professionals to achieve their full potential.
• Reporting and Risk Management: Deliver regular, transparent updates to senior leadership on project progress, potential risks, and proactive mitigation strategies, ensuring informed decision-making at all levels.

Qualifications and Experience

To excel in this role, you will bring a wealth of experience and a track record of success in large-scale theme park or entertainment development projects. The ideal candidate will possess the following qualifications:

• Education: A Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Architecture, Project Management, or a related field is required. A Master’s degree or advanced certification in a relevant discipline is highly desirable.
• Professional Experience: Minimum of 15 years of progressive experience in the planning, design, construction, and delivery of complex theme park or entertainment developments, with a proven ability to lead projects from inception to completion.
• IP Management: A deep understanding of intellectual property (IP) management and its strategic integration within theme park environments, ensuring that experiences are both innovative and commercially viable.
• Leadership Skills: Exceptional leadership and team management capabilities, with a demonstrated ability to inspire, motivate, and align multidisciplinary teams toward achieving ambitious project goals.
• Financial Acumen: Strong financial management skills, including experience in overseeing large project budgets, cost control, and resource allocation to ensure fiscal responsibility and project viability.
• Industry Knowledge: Comprehensive knowledge of theme park design principles, construction methodologies, safety regulations, and emerging trends in the entertainment industry.
• Communication and Collaboration: Outstanding verbal and written communication skills, coupled with the ability to engage effectively with stakeholders at all levels, from executive leadership to external partners and regulatory bodies.
• Cultural Adaptability: The ability to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic, and multicultural work environment, demonstrating adaptability and resilience in the face of evolving challenges.
• Language Proficiency: Fluency in English is essential. Proficiency in Arabic is considered a valuable asset and will enhance your ability to engage with local stakeholders and communities.

Why Join Qiddiya Investment Company?

As an Executive Director - Development at Qiddiya, you will have the unique opportunity to shape the future of entertainment in the region by contributing to the creation of iconic, world-class theme parks. In return, we offer a competitive compensation package designed to reward your expertise and dedication, along with the chance to work on groundbreaking projects that will leave a lasting legacy. If you are a forward-thinking leader with a passion for innovation and a commitment to excellence, we invite you to apply and become a part of our visionary team.