Protocol Officer at The Confederation of African Football (CAF)

Responsibilities

• Under the guidance of Guest Relations Team Lead to be a key representative of the Guest Operations functional area to both external and internal stakeholders
• Coordinate with relevant government agencies and Protocol teams of visiting VIPs to ensure all guest needs are met.
• Enforce Protocol procedures in accordance with CAF guidelines, understanding the Order of Precedence and principles of VVIP/VIP Seating.
• Support various Protocol tasks, including creating seating arrangements and guest profiles, providing guidance on appropriate forms of address and ceremonial procedures, warmly receiving guests, and arranging exclusive experiences.
• Develop a thorough understanding of protocol requirements and daily operations at assigned venues, including familiarity with VIP areas such as drop-off and pick-up zones, ingress and egress routes, lounges, seating sections, and other potential VIP pathways.
• Familiarize with CAF's Incident Management Reporting System and the escalation hierarchy for addressing issues.
• Conduct Protocol training sessions covering specific customs, etiquette, and cultural considerations relevant to hosting dignitaries and individuals of significance, for event staff, volunteers, and service providers.
• Collaborate closely and maintain clear communication with other functional areas, particularly those with overlapping responsibilities and roles within CAF.
• Maintain close coordination with counterparts within CAF to ensure alignment of all protocol services and processes with the organization's expectations.
• Implement any other additional tasks as directed by line manager.

Requirements (Profile)

• Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration or a related field.
• 7+ years of experience in protocol management, particularly in sports events, serving high-level dignitaries.
• Proven track record in orchestrating various events, while effectively engaging with prominent individuals.
• Demonstrated ability to handle tasks with precision and professionalism, ensuring flawless execution.
• Extensive expertise in overseeing end-to-end protocol and VIP hospitality programs during major sports events.
• Experience in crisis management and problem-solving, capable of handling unexpected challenges and emergencies effectively.
• Proficiency in English, French, and Arabic spoken and written. English-Arabic and English-French speaking candidates would be preferred
• High level of proficiency with Microsoft Office and other modern IT tools.
• Familiarity with protocol procedures, such as diplomatic protocols and etiquettes, with a keen understanding of cultural sensitivities particularly within the context of sports events hosting international dignitaries.
• Exceptional communication skills, both verbal and written.
• Flexibility and adaptability to accommodate last-minute changes or adjustments to protocols and schedules, while still upholding the highest standards of professionalism and efficiency.

We Offer

• An interesting and varied job in an exciting and innovative international organization.
• Attractive employment conditions.
• The opportunity to be part of a highly committed international team.
• Quality social security coverage.
• An excellent pension schemes.