Qatar Sports Investments is seeking a visionary and accomplished art world leader to spearhead their partnership with Art Basel, as they prepare to launch the first-ever Art Basel fair in Qatar in February 2026. This is a rare opportunity to shape the future of one of the world’s most prestigious cultural events in a new and dynamic setting.

As Director, you will serve as the lead representative for QSI in this high-profile international collaboration. You will work closely with Qatari stakeholders, including Qatar Museums , QC+, and Qatar Airways, ensuring alignment with Art Basel’s global standards while embracing Qatar’s distinctive cultural identity.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Strategic Leadership: Drive the launch and execution of Art Basel Qatar, aligning with Art Basel’s global vision and local strategy.
  • Operational Oversight: Lead all fair operations locally and internationally, representing QSI across committees.
  • Stakeholder Engagement: Serve as the main liaison with Qatari government entities, cultural institutions, and private partners.
  • Financial Management: Oversee multimillion-dollar budgets with a focus on efficiency and excellence.
  • Sponsorship & Partnerships: Secure and manage high-value sponsorships and strategic partnerships.
  • Team Leadership: Guide cross-functional teams across QSI and Art Basel to ensure seamless collaboration.
  • Marketing Support: Contribute to marketing and media strategies with internal and external partners.
  • Compliance & Risk: Uphold local regulations, royal protocol, and global ethical standards.

Key Requirements

  • Experience in leadership roles within art fairs or major cultural events, ideally with experience launching internationally recognised exhibitions.
  • Proven track record in securing and managing high-level sponsorships with corporations, luxury brands, and/or public sector bodies.
  • Strong ability to manage complex budgets and reporting structures.
  • Deep understanding of the Middle East cultural landscape and strong existing relationships within the global art community.
  • Skilled in managing diverse, high-performing teams in fast-paced and high-profile environments.
  • Outstanding presentation and stakeholder engagement skills; fluency in English required, Arabic highly desirable.

Ready to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of Art Basel in Qatar?

Apply now together with your CV and be part of a globally significant cultural moment with Qatar Sports Investments.

If you have the relevant experience and this opportunity sounds interesting to you, please get in touch with our team including a copy of your CV as soon as possible via the form below.

Hanson Search is a leading talent advisory and executive search consultancy with consultants based across the UAE, UK, USA, and Europe. We specialise in business-critical roles that drive revenue, reputation, and risk, with dedicated teams in Communications, Government Relations, Financial Communications, Public Affairs, Marketing, Digital Marketing, Sustainability, Investor Relations and C-Suite recruitment. Please click here to find out about more about Hanson Search.

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Partner, Global Head of Healthcare & Communications

Amy Hayer

Amy Hayer: Amy brings over 15 years of experience in executive search, with a focus on healthcare communications and international recruitment. She an expert in advising people on important career choices and placing senior talent in roles to elevate their...

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