VIP Delegation Manager

JOB PURPOSE:The VIP Government Delegation Manager will be responsible for planning, coordinating, and managing all activities related to the participation of high-level government and military delegations attending the defence event. This role ensures that visiting officials, including Heads of States, Ministers of Defence, Chiefs of Defence Staff, Service Chiefs, Ambassadors, and other dignitaries receive world-class protocol, logistical, and hospitality support.The Manager serves as the key liaison between the event, government institutions (local and foreign), embassies, and defence attachés to ensure a seamless experience for all VIP delegates at the event.KEY ACCOUNTABILITIES:Delegation Management & Coordination• Identify, invite, and confirm attendance of government and military delegations from African and international partner countries.• Maintain an updated database of official invitees, attendees, and accompanying staff.• Coordinate with Ministries of Defence, Foreign Affairs, and Embassies for accreditation, visas, and travel arrangements.• Prepare and manage official correspondence, invitation letters, and briefing materials for delegations.• Oversee delegate registration and accreditation in collaboration with the security and registration teams.Protocol & VIP Relations• Ensure all activities comply with international diplomatic protocol and defence industry standards.• Plan and oversee VIP arrival and departure protocols at airports, hotels, and the event venue.• Develop and implement detailed itineraries and escort schedules for each official delegation.• Supervise protocol officers and liaison staff assigned to specific countries or dignitaries.• Coordinate gift exchanges, official ceremonies, and high-level meetings.Logistics & Hospitality• Liaise with transport, accommodation, and catering teams to guarantee premium service delivery for VIPs.• Manage allocation of VIP vehicles, escorts, and security coordination with Nigerian Defence and Police authorities.• Oversee the setup of VIP lounges, meeting rooms, and hospitality suites.• Anticipate and resolve last-minute logistical or scheduling challenges efficiently and discreetly.Event & Programme Integration• Work closely with the event programming team to align VIP schedules with exhibition, conference, and networking activities.• Support the planning of official receptions, gala dinners, and bilateral meetings.• Ensure that all government delegations are properly represented in opening ceremonies, plenaries, and panel sessions.Stakeholder Engagement• Serve as the main point of contact for government representatives before, during, and after the event.• Foster strong relationships with African Union, ECOWAS, and national defence representatives.• Coordinate post-event thank-you communications, feedback collection, and reporting.QUALIFICATIONS, EXPERIENCE & SKILLS• Degree qualified• VIP protocol management, government liaison, or international event coordination, preferably within defence, security, or diplomatic environments.• Proven track record of managing high-level delegations or diplomatic missions.• Strong understanding of government and military protocol procedures in Africa and internationally.• Excellent communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills.• Ability to work under pressure, with discretion and professionalism.Core Competencies:• Diplomatic tact and cultural sensitivity.• Exceptional organisational and multitasking abilities.• Leadership and team coordination.• Crisis management and problem-solving.• Attention to detail and confidentiality.• Strong stakeholder engagement and relationship management.Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. If you do not hear from us within 14 days of submitting your application, please consider your application unsuccessful on this occasion. We kindly ask that you read the role requirements carefully before applying, as only candidates who meet the stated criteria will be considered.