Director Strategy

Role Overview

Director Strategy at Esports Foundation, based in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Full-time position reporting to the COO with four direct reports.

Role Purpose

Shape and lead the strategic agenda of one of the most ambitious esports and gaming organizations in the world. Define and execute strategic initiatives that drive growth, innovation, and long-term sustainability of the Foundation and its flagship events. Anticipate industry shifts, identify new opportunities, and align diverse stakeholders around a clear roadmap.

Key Responsibilities

Strategy Development & Planning

• Develop, refine, and communicate a clear strategic vision for the Esports Foundation that aligns with its mission, vision, and values.
• Lead the organization's multi-year strategic planning process, setting long-term objectives, priorities, and KPIs.
• Translate high-level vision into actionable roadmaps and ensure execution across divisions.

Market Analysis & Insights

• Conduct in-depth market analysis of global esports, gaming, and entertainment trends.
• Identify opportunities and risks emerging from industry, consumer, and regional dynamics.
• Provide regular insights and recommendations to leadership and the Board of Trustees.

Business Development & Growth

• Drive high-impact initiatives that expand EF's market position and global reach.
• Identify and pursue new business opportunities, partnerships, and alliances aligned with strategic priorities.
• Assess the feasibility of new verticals, markets, or products that diversify EF's portfolio.
• Drive the Foundation's international expansion by coordinating the setup of regional operations and acting as the central point of alignment across global teams to ensure effective, localized, and integrated growth.

Stakeholder Alignment & Governance

• Collaborate with internal stakeholders (senior leadership, division heads) to ensure alignment with corporate strategy.
• Partner with external stakeholders—publishers, teams, sponsors, government entities—to foster relationships that advance EF's objectives.
• Lead the end-to-end Board of Trustees process, including preparation of materials and decision frameworks, and ensure a clear cascade of Board decisions and strategic priorities across the organization.

Reporting & Risk Management

• Prepare and present strategic updates, reports, and recommendations to senior leadership and the Board.
• Identify risks associated with strategic initiatives and propose mitigation approaches.
• Ensure all initiatives are executed in line with governance frameworks and organizational priorities.

Corporate Social Responsibility

• Develop and maintain a Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) strategy that supports the broader esports and gaming ecosystem.
• Champion initiatives that create positive social impact and strengthen EF's reputation globally.

Team Leadership

• Build, lead, and mentor a high-performing strategy team.
• Establish performance metrics and conduct regular reviews to ensure the delivery and growth of team members.

Qualifications & Experience

• Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Economics, Strategy, or related field. Master's degree is preferred.
• 10+ years of experience in corporate strategy, management consulting, or equivalent strategic roles.
• 4+ years of leadership experience in complex organizations.

Skills & Competencies

• Proven track record of designing and executing corporate strategies in fast-evolving industries.
• Strong understanding of strategic planning methodologies and best practices.
• Exceptional market analysis and business development skills.
• Ability to influence and align diverse stakeholders at all organizational levels.
• Strong leadership and people management capabilities.
• Prior consulting experience with projects involving sports, entertainment, digital products, or large-scale events.
• Proven background in top-tier management consulting (strategy, transformation, or organizational design).
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English. Mandarin is a plus.
• Good understanding of the gaming and esports industry (nice to have).

Additional Information

• Relocation support provided.
• Transportation allowance.
• Housing allowance.
• Competitive compensation.
• VIP medical insurance.
• Opportunity to work on a new exciting project with a group of passionate professionals with the freedom to excel and make a real impact.
• The Esports Foundation is committed to building a diverse organization where members, regardless of background or identity, have a sense of belonging. Different perspectives are valued in a collaborative environment.