American International University (AIU), Kuwait is seeking a proactive and experienced Government Relations Manager to lead a team responsible for managing all government-related processes and ensuring compliance with local regulations. This key role involves overseeing documentation for the university and its employees, including licensing, permits, visas, and residencies. The successful candidate will be a strong communicator and a capable leader who can effectively coordinate between the university’s management, HR, and various government entities.
Responsibilities
Team Leadership & Management
- Lead and manage a dedicated team responsible for processing all types of visas, including employment, residency, and visit visas.
- Ensure timely tracking and management of visa extensions, cancellations, or transfers as necessary.
Licensing & Permits
- Supervise the renewal and processing of the university’s permits, licenses, and Authorized Signatory documents.
- Oversee the issuance and cancellation of work permits, medical tests, fingerprint registration, and health insurance, ensuring smooth processes for university staff.
Legal Compliance & Procedures
- Ensure all government paperwork is completed in a timely and accurate manner, including coordination of Civil ID issuance and cancellations for employees.
- Maintain an up-to-date understanding of changes in laws and regulations affecting labor, immigration, and governmental processes, and ensure the team is briefed on updates.
- Collaborate with HR to register or deregister Kuwaiti employees with Social Security.
PUC Approvals & Renewals
- Oversee the processing and follow-up of Public University Corporation (PUC) approvals and renewals for university staff, ensuring all deadlines are met.
- Coordinate with various stakeholders, including HR leadership and management, to ensure government-related tasks are aligned with institutional needs.
Sponsorship & Labor Office Coordination
- Obtain quarterly sponsorship reports from the immigration and labor offices, ensure reconciliation, and submit these reports with the required documents to the relevant authorities.
- Facilitate departure and exit formalities for employees leaving the university after visa cancellations, ensuring compliance with government regulations.
Communication & Reporting
- Maintain open lines of communication with university management and HR, providing regular updates on government-related matters and ensuring effective collaboration.
- Serve as the point of contact for resolving any government-related issues or challenges faced by the university or its employees.
Qualifications
- Education: Diploma or equivalent required.
- Experience: Minimum of 5 years of experience in a similar role, with a proven track record in managing government relations.
- Languages: Strong proficiency in both written and spoken English and Arabic is essential.
- Leadership Skills: Demonstrated experience in leading a team, with the ability to guide and mentor staff effectively.
- Communication Skills: Impeccable communication skills for effective engagement with government entities, management, and HR leadership.
- Government Knowledge: In-depth understanding of Labor Office, Jawazat, and Governmental Regulations.
- Attention to Detail: Ability to manage multiple tasks with high attention to detail, and adapt to changing priorities.
- Time Management: Strong organizational skills with proficiency in time management and meeting deadlines.
- Problem-Solving: Analytical mindset with excellent problem-solving abilities.
- Confidentiality: High level of confidentiality in handling sensitive employee and company information.
Benefits
- Competitive salary based on experience and qualifications.
- Comprehensive health insurance and additional benefits in accordance with university policies.
- Opportunities for career development and professional growth within the institution.
- A collaborative and dynamic work environment in a prestigious educational institution.
- Additional perks and benefits to be discussed during the interview.
Application Instructions
Interested candidates are invited to apply by submitting their updated resume and a cover letter highlighting relevant experience and qualifications. Please ensure all documents are in English and clearly demonstrate your suitability for the role. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for an interview.