Partner - Public Sector/ Economic Development

We are retained by a leading Abu Dhabi government entity to identify an Executive Director-level leader who is ready to step out of consulting and into the institution itself. This is a principal role, not an advisory one. You will own strategy, shape policy direction, and operate at the highest levels of government.

About the Role

This entity sits at the heart of Abu Dhabi's national agenda - operating across economic policy, social development, or institutional transformation (the mandate is deliberately broad at this level). The incoming Executive Director will be expected to lead from day one: building internal capability, engaging senior stakeholders across government, and translating high-level vision into executable programmes.

For the right person, this is a rare chance to move from advising governments to being part of one.

Requirements

• 18+ years of experience, with a strong foundation at a Tier 1 or Tier 2 consultancy - McKinsey, BCG, Bain, Deloitte, Oliver Wyman, Strategy&, Kearney, or equivalent
• Demonstrated expertise in one or more of: public policy, economic development, social impact, institutional reform, or national strategy
• Prior exposure to the GCC or broader MENA public sector — either through consulting engagements or in-house roles
• Proven ability to influence at C-suite and ministerial level
• A track record of building and leading high-performing teams
• This is not a project.
• There is no end date, no slide deck to deliver and move on from.
• The entity is looking for a long-term leader - someone who will build something, own the outcomes, and grow with the institution.
• If you have spent your career advising governments and are ready to be accountable for results rather than recommendations, this is worth a conversation.