Sr. Government Relations Officer

Job description

Company Description Since launching in Kuwait in 2004, talabat, the leading on-demand food and Q-commerce app for everyday deliveries, has been offering convenience and reliability to its customers. talabat’s local roots run deep, offering a real understanding of the needs of the communities we serve in eight countries across the region. We harness innovative technology and knowledge to simplify everyday life for our customers, optimize operations for our restaurants and local shops, and provide our riders with reliable earning opportunities daily. Here at talabat, we are building a high performance culture through engaged workforce and growing talent density. We're all about keeping it real and making a difference. Our 6,000+ strong talabaty are on an awesome mission to spread positive vibes. We are proud to be a multi great place to work award winner. Job Description Government relations at talabat isn't paperwork in a back office — it's a strategic function that keeps one of the UAE's largest delivery platforms operating smoothly. You'll be the person who ensures our licences are current, our compliance is airtight, and our relationships with key government authorities are strong. When a regulatory issue hits, you're the one who resolves it. When we expand to new locations, you're the one who clears the path. What you'll do : Government Liaison and Relationship Management - Serve as talabat's primary point of contact with UAE government authorities including DED, Municipality, Ministry of Commerce, MOH, Ministry of Interior, and Consumer Protection Authority - Build and maintain direct relationships with key officials across these bodies - Represent talabat at government meetings and hearings, including Ministry of Interior matters related to driver operations Licensing, Compliance and Regulatory - Own the end-to-end licensing process for new branches and activities — from commercial registry updates through municipal and civil defense clearances - Manage the renewal cycle for all trade licences, chamber of commerce registrations, health certificates, and other official documents - Track and resolve violations from traffic, municipality, and food safety authorities before they escalate - Keep the legal team informed of procedural and regulatory changes that affect operations Cross-functional Support - Coordinate with marketing on campaign licensing requirements and with procurement on customs clearance - Process contract attestations with the Ministry of Justice and embassies - Handle CSR initiative approvals and trademark registration/renewal - Manage correspondence with authorities regarding driver and customer information inquiries What success looks like: First 90 days: You've mapped every active licence, renewal deadline, and pending government matter. You own the full compliance calendar and nothing is at risk of lapsing. You've introduced yourself to key contacts at our primary government authorities. 6 months: You've built direct relationships that mean you can pick up the phone and resolve issues faster. You've identified at least 2–3 process improvements — whether that's better use of UAE digital government platforms, earlier escalation patterns, or more efficient coordination with internal teams. 12 months: You're a trusted strategic partner to the business. Legal, operations, and leadership come to you proactively on regulatory matters. Compliance incidents have decreased. Licensing for new locations is faster and smoother. Qualifications - Deep UAE government relations experience — you know how DED, Municipality, MOH, and Ministry of Commerce work from the inside. You have existing relationships with government officials and understand how to navigate bureaucratic processes efficiently - Fluent Arabic and English — spoken and written. You'll be drafting correspondence, attending hearings, and building relationships in both languages - 5+ years in government relations, public affairs, or regulatory compliance in the UAE — this is not a role for someone learning the landscape - Track record of managing multi-authority compliance — you've juggled licensing, renewals, and regulatory matters across several government bodies simultaneously - Experience resolving government violations or disputes — you've handled escalations and know how to get outcomes Bonus if you have - Experience in government relations for a technology, logistics, or delivery company - Familiarity with UAE e-government platforms and digital services - Experience setting up new branch licences in multiple Emirates - Bachelor's degree in law, public administration, political science, or related field - Knowledge of trademark registration processes in the UAE You'll thrive here if you... - Enjoy building long-term relationships and navigating complex stakeholder environments - Are energised by working in a fast-paced company where things move quickly and priorities shift - Take ownership — you don't wait to be told when a licence is expiring - Are comfortable operating independently while keeping the right people informed This might not be for you if... - You prefer a slow, predictable work environment with one task at a time - You need detailed instructions for every situation — this role requires judgment and initiative - You're uncomfortable representing a company in formal government settings Additional Information As part of the talabat team: - Competitive compensation and benefits package - Sponsored healthcare and gym membership - Monthly talabat app credits - Parental leave - The opportunity to shape government relations at one of the region's most recognised tech brands - A diverse, cross-cultural team environment - Clear path to grow into a Head of Government Relations or regional GR role