Head of MEA Programming - Custom Events

Who we are

We are an organisation that exists to drive progress. That's the “red thread” that connects everyone at The Economist Group (TEG). Our businesses share a devotion to innovation, independence and rigour in their fields of expertise. We empower people to understand and tackle the critical challenges and changes facing the world. Our analytical rigour, global expertise and evidence-based insights enable individuals and organisations to make sense of these shifts and chart a course through them.

We deliver analysis and insights in many formats to subscribers and clients in 170 countries through our four businesses, The Economist, Economist Impact, Economist Intelligence and Economist Education, which uphold our global reputation for excellence and integrity. 

We are seeking a head of Middle East programming for the Economist Impact Custom Events business in the region to lead the development and delivery of bespoke events. The role will work closely with commercial teams to drive the growth of the regional portfolio, manage a team of programme editors and executives to develop original programme ideas, and ensure the high-quality delivery of client-focused content. 

Accountabilities

• Work closely with the global head of content & programmes to develop the custom events' content strategy in MEA
• Lead content development and execution of the custom business' MEA portfolio of events
• Work with sales, programming and marketing to find workable solutions to meet the requirements of both our clients and delegates for events in the region
• Serve as a central point of contact on regional proposals and contracts
• Oversee one or more strategic portfolios 
• Contribute to account growth and work closely with the commercial team to develop new ideas for content and formats
• Develop effective relationships with key regional internal stakeholders, both editorially and commercially, to raise the profile and support the growth of custom events   

Experience, skills and professional attributes

• Direct experience creating editorially independent MEA-focused event programmes to deadline and delivering to milestones and budget
• Previous work experience within a commercial events business generating new event products and format ideas
• Demonstrable ability to develop effective relationships with senior industry professionals
• Strong commercial acumen and client management skills - demonstrated ability to manage challenging client relationships
• Keen understanding of The Economist’s position in the market, editorial approach and knowledge of the range of topics it covers
• Exceptional writing and editing skills and the ability to understand and distil information quickly
• Ability to multi-task with solid organisation and time-management skills and ability to mentor, nurture and develop young talent  
• Track record working with editorial partners to deliver rigorously researched programmes that fulfil editorial and client objectives
• Team player who collaborates and inspires and experience managing a team of programme editors (or conference producers)

#LI-Hybrid

What we offer

Benefits
We offer excellent benefits including an incentive programme, generous annual and parental leave policies, volunteering days and well-being support throughout the year, as well as free access to all Economist content. Country specific benefits are also offered.

Our Values
Our values are a collective set of beliefs and behaviours that strengthen The Economist Group's purpose and demonstrate where we want to be as an organisation. They reflect on our mission to pursue progress for individuals, organisations and the world.

Independence
We are not bound to any party or interest and encourage exploration and free-thinking. We champion freedom, both within our organisation and around the world.

Integrity
We are bold in our efforts to uncover the truth and stand up for what we believe in. We inspire trust through our rigour, fact-checking and transparency.

Excellence
We aspire to the highest standards in all we do. We are ambitious and inquisitive in our pursuit of continuous progress and innovation.

Inclusivity
We value diversity in thought and background and encourage healthy debate with a breadth of perspectives. We treat our colleagues and customers fairly and respectfully.

Openness
We foster a collaborative and empathetic culture conducive to the interests, wit and initiative of our colleagues. New ideas are our lifeblood.

The Economist Group values diversity. We are committed to equal opportunities and creating an inclusive environment for all our colleagues and potential colleagues regardless of ethnic origin, national origin, gender, gender identity, race, colour, religious beliefs, disability, sexual orientation, age, marital status or any other status.