Manager - Operational Readiness at Qiddiya Investment Company

Qiddiya Investment Company is actively recruiting for a pivotal leadership position: Manager - Operational Readiness, based at its headquarters in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. This role presents an extraordinary career opportunity to contribute to one of the world's most ambitious giga-projects, Qiddiya, destined to become a leading global destination for entertainment, sports, and the arts.

Job Description & Key Responsibilities

The Manager - Operational Readiness will hold a critical role in ensuring all operational aspects of the project are primed for a seamless launch and sustained operation. You will be responsible for leading and coordinating efforts across multiple disciplines to transition constructed infrastructure into a fully functional entity. Core responsibilities include:

• Readiness Strategy Leadership: Develop and execute a comprehensive framework for testing the operational readiness of all project facilities and zones prior to opening.
• Planning & Coordination: Act as the central liaison between Development/Construction teams and future operational teams (Operations, Security, Safety, Hospitality, Maintenance) to ensure all plans are aligned.
• Program Management: Establish detailed master schedules for operational readiness phases, monitor progress, identify potential risks and bottlenecks, and develop robust mitigation plans.
• Systems & Operations Testing: Oversee the execution of comprehensive operational testing scenarios (Soft Opening Simulations) for operating systems, logistics, emergency protocols, and guest services.
• Quality & Compliance Assurance: Ensure all processes and systems meet the highest standards of quality, safety, and compliance with local and international regulations before going live.
• Team Readiness & Training: Collaborate with department heads to ensure operational staff are fully trained on new policies, procedures, and systems.
• Reporting: Provide clear, regular reports to senior management on operational readiness status, milestone achievements, risk registers, and action plans.

Qualifications & Requirements

To be a successful candidate for this senior role, you must meet the following criteria:

• Educational Background: A Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Engineering, Project Management, or a related field. A Master’s degree or advanced professional certifications (e.g., PMP, PRINCE2) is a significant advantage.
• Professional Experience: Minimum of 8 to 10 years of proven leadership experience in specialized roles focusing on Operational Readiness, Major Facility Commissioning, or Project Transition from Construction to Operations. Experience within mega-project sectors such as integrated resorts, smart cities, or large-scale tourism destinations is highly preferred.
• Leadership Skills: Demonstrated ability to lead cross-functional teams in a complex, fast-paced environment. Excellent communication, persuasion, and facilitation skills.
• Analytical Abilities: Superior capability to analyze complex processes, identify gaps, and develop practical plans for remediation.
• Technical Knowledge: Strong understanding of Facility Management systems (CAFM), Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP), and supply chain/logistics principles for large-scale projects.
• Language Proficiency: Fluency in written and spoken English is essential. Proficiency in Arabic is a valuable asset.

Why Work at Qiddiya?

Joining Qiddiya Investment Company means contributing directly to Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 by working on a project that will redefine entertainment in the region. We offer a dynamic work environment, unparalleled challenges, and exceptional opportunities for professional growth.

How to Apply

Applications for this position are accepted exclusively through official channels such as Naukrigulf or the Qiddiya Investment Company official career portal. Please prepare an updated English CV that clearly demonstrates your experience and achievements in operational readiness and major project management, along with a compelling Cover Letter stating your motivation for joining this historic project.

Location: Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Job Type: Full-time.