Sr. Manager Hajj Planning

About the Role

Kidana is seeking a Sr. Manager Hajj Planning to join their team in Makkah, Saudi Arabia. This full-time role is responsible for managing and overseeing the execution of operational planning activities, ensuring alignment with the organization's strategic objectives. The Senior Manager will work closely with cross-functional teams to optimize resource allocation and project execution, reporting to the Technical Director of Operations Planning.

Role Purpose and Context

The primary purpose of this position is to contribute to improving processes, enhancing efficiency, and ensuring operational success across the organization, particularly in the context of Hajj operations. The role involves leading the day-to-day management of operational activities within the Hajj Planning Management department, focusing on detailed execution across transportation, crowd management, accommodations, and logistics.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist in the development of comprehensive operational plans for Hajj, ensuring integration and alignment with organizational goals.
• Lead the daily management of operational activities, coordinating with department heads and cross-functional teams for smooth execution in areas such as security, medical services, logistics, and transportation.
• Monitor resource allocation and utilization (personnel, equipment, supplies) to ensure efficient operations and recommend optimizations.
• Support the implementation of risk mitigation strategies and contingency plans for degraded operations, ensuring readiness for emergency scenarios.
• Manage the real-time execution of operational plans during Hajj, coordinating tasks and providing support for issue resolution.
• Ensure accurate data collection for performance tracking and post-Hajj analysis, preparing daily and weekly progress reports.
• Assist in the post-Hajj review process, providing detailed analysis and contributing to lessons learned for future planning.
• Act as a liaison between operational teams and stakeholders, facilitating communication and integration of operational needs.
• Direct and supervise the operations planning team, managing performance, providing mentorship, and ensuring alignment with broader organizational goals.

Leadership Responsibilities

• Supervise daily activities of the operations planning team, ensuring alignment with departmental goals.
• Provide ongoing support, training, and mentorship to team members for skill development.
• Set clear, measurable performance objectives for the team and conduct regular performance reviews.
• Collaborate with the Technical Director and Human Capital to identify and develop key talent through succession planning.
• Promote collaboration within the team and across departments for seamless execution of operational plans.
• Address and resolve operational conflicts, fostering a solution-oriented environment.
• Lead by example during normal and degraded operations, providing hands-on support during critical phases.
• Maintain open communication with higher management, providing timely updates on operational planning progress.
• Prepare operational reports summarizing team performance and project outcomes.
• Contribute insights and recommendations to support the strategic direction of the Hajj Planning Management department.

Qualifications and Experience

• A minimum of 5-10 years of relevant experience is required.

Work Environment

This is a full-time position based in Mecca, Makkah, Saudi Arabia, within the operations planning team at Kidana. The role involves close collaboration with various internal and external stakeholders to ensure the successful execution of Hajj operations.