Manager - Anchor Cultural Program

About Qiddiya

Qiddiya is a premier entertainment, sports, and cultural destination in Saudi Arabia, integral to Vision 2030. Covering over 360 square kilometers near Riyadh, it hosts world-class attractions such as a Formula 1-standard racetrack, theme parks, large sports facilities, and performance venues. Beyond a destination, Qiddiya acts as an economic and social catalyst, driving diversification, job growth, and innovative lifestyles. The rapidly advancing project offers meaningful roles from planning through operations for professionals eager to contribute to a groundbreaking development.

Role Purpose

This position leads the strategy and execution of flagship cultural programs and signature experiences, serving as key draws within the Cultural and Heritage initiatives.

Primary Responsibilities

• Design and manage marquee cultural programs that serve as cornerstone attractions.
• Create and refine program ideas, themes, and formats to ensure high impact.
• Support selection and management of external partners for program development and execution.
• Supervise the staging of major events and performances, ensuring coordination across departments.
• Align program delivery with operational, technical, and asset management requirements.
• Oversee relationships with prominent performers, partners, and contributors, managing contracts and schedules.
• Monitor program performance including attendance and engagement to optimize visibility and impact.
• Integrate anchor programs seamlessly into the wider programming schedule, maximizing visitor interaction.

Success Indicators

• High attendance at anchor events.
• Strong visitor engagement and satisfaction.
• Positive contributions to overall program performance and financial objectives.

Qualifications and Experience

• 7 to 10+ years in managing large-scale, high-profile cultural or entertainment programs.
• Proven track record in delivering flagship events or experiences, particularly at festivals or cultural venues.
• Experience managing complex programs with significant audiences and visibility.
• Comprehensive understanding of audience-targeted program design and positioning.
• History of effectively working with notable performers, artists, and strategic partners.
• Strong contract negotiation and relationship management skills with senior stakeholders.
• Experience directing large-scale productions, including technical, operational, and scheduling coordination.
• Skillful at uniting multiple teams (Operations, Technical, Commercial, Marketing) to ensure smooth program delivery.
• Ability to thrive under demanding timelines and high-pressure environments.
• Demonstrated capability to enhance attendance, engagement, and commercial value of programs.
• Insight into the role of anchor programs in boosting visitor attraction, dwell time, and sponsorship potential.
• Involvement in national or international major events and cultural festivals preferred.
• Background in launching flagship programs or pre-opening events is an asset.