Government Relations Officer

Overview

About the Job: This role manages government relations and ensures compliance with labour and immigration regulations in Saudi Arabia. It involves coordinating with government authorities on visas, trade licenses, and official documentation, overseeing end-to-end visa processes for employees, and addressing staff inquiries related to labour and immigration matters. The role also monitors regulatory changes, liaises with external counsel and third parties, protects company interests, conducts required government visits, and provides regular reports to HR and senior management.

Responsibilities

• Develop and maintain relationships with key government departments, including the municipality, economic department, and other relevant entities, to handle trade licenses, immigration, and other regulatory matters;
• Stay updated with the latest labour and immigration laws and communicate changes to HR staff to ensure compliance;
• Address staff inquiries regarding visa, labour, and passport matters, providing accurate and timely information;
• Manage visa documentation for new hires, leavers, transfers, and renewals, ensuring all processes are completed efficiently;
• Oversee the implementation of immigration and labour responsibilities in Saudi Arabia, ensuring adherence to regulations;
• Establish and maintain standards and procedures for administrative processes, identifying opportunities for improvement and resolving discrepancies;
• Protect the company's interests in accordance with governmental authorities, laws, and regulations;
• Coordinate with outside counsel and third-party vendors regarding immigration issues;
• Communicate with various government agencies for document certification and coordinate with third parties on documentation needs;
• Handle legislative reporting and documentation, tracking legislative activities and preparing reports for internal stakeholders and senior management;
• Act as an office facilitator as needed and address potential issues or crises arising from government actions, policies, or regulatory changes;
• Visit all government ministries & semi-government entities if needed;
• Send weekly reports to the HR department & higher management.

Requirements

• Qualifications: Bachelor's degree in a relevant field.
• Experience: 4 years of experience in government relations, preferably in a similar industry; Proven track record of liaising with immigration, labour departments, and other government entities
• Knowledge: Deep understanding of the property market; Excellent knowledge of labour registration procedures; Proficiency in HR management software such as applicant tracking systems and payroll systems
• Skills: Excellent problem-solving skills; Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written; Proficiency in computer skills, including Microsoft Office suite; Crisis management and issue resolution capabilities; Proactive and responsible; Cooperative team player; High-performing and fast-paced work environment