Handicrafts Development Section Head

To manage and establish strategies, plans and objectives for Handicrafts Development section to develop artisans skills, enhance overall quality, aiding to preserve traditional crafts and bridge the gap between artisans and product design and retail development .

The Section Head role will direct the enhancement and development of traditional crafts through capacity building programmes and quality development. The role will be responsible for ensuring that best practices are identified and implemented and key partnerships are managed through collaborations and consultations with subject-matter experts, communities of practice, NGOs and other partners.

ACCOUNTABILITIES

Key Accountabilities

Strategic Plans and Partnerships Establish the strategy, plans and objectives for Handicrafts Development section, which aim to develop artisans, enhance the overall quality and promote traditional crafts within the market. Liaise and strengthen relationships with subject-matter experts, communities of practice, NGOs and other to provide consultations and contribute to the development of quality standards, trainings and programmes related to traditional crafts. Direct the teams to identify and implement best practices in relation to handicrafts development.

Capacity Building Programmes Direct the development and monitor the delivery of artisan's capacity building programmes in order to develop artisans' capabilities and to promote their traditional products. Monitor the planning, delivery, evaluation and outcomes of all trainings, workshops and programmes and ensure their alignment with defined proposals, needs, schedules and expectations. Ensure that capacity building programmes and learning experiences are enhanced through the use of online platforms and technological solutions when applicable. Direct the ongoing development of the Abu Dhabi Register of Artisans (ADRA), and manage reviews and assessment and policy related amendments. Monitor all aspects of ADRA's certifications in accordance to defined criteria, standards and requirements, aiding to assess and recognize highly skilled artisans and to inspire younger generations to practice traditional crafts.

Handicrafts Standards and Quality Development Monitor the development and implementation of traditional crafts standards and guidelines in order to control the quality of produced products, encouraging artisans' development. Collaborate with ICH Retail & Market Development section in order to ensure product diversification and knowledge on retail market needs. Direct the team to expand and diversify traditional crafts, particularly in less common areas in order increase awareness and engagement in different elements of ICH. Measure impacts of standards on traditional crafts practices and monitor the effectiveness of standards in developing artisans' capabilities, increasing certifications and enhancing final products. Oversee the certification of products in order to enhance the recognition of products within the market. Ensure that continuous support is provided during the development of product lines by House of Artisans (QAH) and retail plans by ICH Retail & Market Development section to meet quality demands and standards.

Artisans Administration Manage the preservation of traditional handicrafts and practices through promoting and enhancing current work produced by artisans and inspiring emerging talents to continue practicing handicrafts. Direct Artisans Administration unit to work closely with artisans in order to introduce, communicate and illustrate handicrafts standards and programmes' requirements. Ensure that artisans effectively communicate and engage with visitors through live demonstrations and workshops. Monitor artisans' performances and ensure their alignment with programmes' objectives and are delivered as per expected standards and outcomes.

Policies, Processes and Procedures Develop policies related to Traditional Crafts in coordination with the Culture Policy Section, and manage the policy implementation as per agreed timelines. Develop processes and procedures pertaining to the section in coordination with the Corporate Excellence Section and manage their implementation to ensure adherence and all relevant requirements are fulfilled.

Collaboration Collaborate with internal and external stakeholders on matters related to the section to in order to facilitate flow of information and also to build awareness in those areas.

Day-to-Day Operations Manage the day-to-day operations of the section providing some guidance in the related area, encouraging teamwork and facilitating related professional work processes in order to achieve high performance standards and ensure that employee activities are performed in timely, efficient, and effective manner. Report on a regular basis to the Line Manager on the operational activities of the section, challenges and issues faced, mitigations taken, etc. as required to keep the Line Manager informed and updated on the section's activities.

Budget Contribute to the preparation of the ICH department budget, and monitor the financial performance of a given area of activity versus set budget to ensure alignment with set budget guidelines.

People Management Manage the effective achievement of the section's objectives by setting individual targets, developing and motivating staff, conducting and reviewing performance appraisals for direct and indirect reports, assisting in recruitment, providing formal and informal feedback in order to maximise subordinates and section's performance. Contribute to the achievement of Emiratisation requirements within the section through recruitment, development and retention of UAE nationals and in line with DCT's Emiratisation initiatives.

EHS (Environment, Health and Safety) Ensure all relevant environment, health and safety policies, procedures and controls are adhered to so that employee safety, legislative compliance, and a responsible environmental attitude can be guaranteed. Comply with all relevant EHS guidelines, policies and procedures, report incidents and hazards on a timely manner, and reduce consumption of natural resources to support in protecting the environment and ensure a healthy and safe work environment.

QUALIFICATIONS, EXPERIENCE, COMPETENCIES

Qualification (e.g. Academic Qualification, Certifications, Licenses)

Bachelor's degree in Art Management, Cultural Studies, Heritage Studies, Emirati Studies, Business Administration, or Equivalent. Master's degree (preferred) in Art Management, Cultural Studies, Heritage Studies, Emirati Studies, Business Administration, or Equivalent.

Experience

At least 6 to 8 years of experience in a managerial or supervisory role within heritage, cultural and/or traditional crafts field. Preferably, an experience in developing capabilities and in managing training programmes and certifications. Plus, prior experience and/or strong understanding about quality standards development and implementation. Additionally, strong knowledge and understanding about UAE heritage and traditional crafts.

Key Skills

Strong strategic decision making: ability to make timely decisions, and explain decisions to ensure commitment and execution Excellent communication skills: ability to prepare written documents and reports, as well as prepare oral presentations. Analytical and problem-solving skills: ability to analyze problems, identify alternative solutions, anticipate consequences, and provide recommendations. Building relationships and collaboration skills: ability to proactively build and strengthen positive personal and organizational relationships, as well as ability to work with variety of groups and ages. Effective organizing and planning skills: ability to create and keep deadlines, set and meet goals, manage schedules, and think strategically. Critical thinking skills: ability to analyze situations, understand connections between ideas and make informed decisions. Strong technical and IT skills: ability to gather and interpret data, ability to utilise computer technology, and ability to use applications and software. Adaptability and flexibility: ability to cope with changing circumstances and environments. Advanced subject-matter expertise.