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Roberta De SantisRD

Roberta De Santis

General Director

$250/day
Abu Dhabi, AE
8-15 years

Average response time: 1 hour

About Roberta

I help organizations navigate complex international environments, build strategic relationships, and turn ideas into high-impact initiatives. With experience across Italy and the United Arab Emirates, I bring a cross-cultural perspective combined with a practical, results-driven approach. My work sits at the intersection of international affairs, government relations, and business strategy. I support clients in understanding regulatory landscapes, engaging with key stakeholders, and positioning themselves effectively in competitive and fast-evolving markets. Whether entering a new region, strengthening institutional partnerships, or launching a major initiative, I focus on clarity, execution, and measurable outcomes.
  • Italian

    Native or bilingual

  • English

    Fluent

  • French

    Basic

  • Spanish

    Basic

Can work on-site
Abu Dhabi (up to 10km), Dubai (up to 10km)

Experience

  • Italian Chamber of Commerce in the UAE
    General Director
    PUBLIC SECTOR
    December 2022 - February 2026 (3 years and 2 months)
    United Arab Emirates
    The role encompassed a comprehensive range of strategic, operational, and institutional
    responsibilities aimed at strengthening and promoting the presence of Italian businesses
    within the UAE market. Key functions included the development and implementation of
    strategic initiatives aligned with the evolving economic landscape of the UAE, with the
    objective of supporting the growth, visibility, and competitiveness of Italian companies
    operating or seeking to enter the market. The position also involved building and maintaining
    constructive relationships with local government authorities, regulatory institutions, and key
    stakeholders, facilitating dialogue, cooperation, and institutional support for the Italian
    business community.
    Corporate strategy Business plan Marketing Events Project Management
  • Italian Chamber of Commerce
    Senior Manager
    December 2022 - February 2026 (3 years and 2 months)
    United Arab Emirates
    A significant component of the role focused on stakeholder engagement
    and networking, fostering collaboration with other international chambers of commerce, trade
    associations, business councils, and industry leaders to create synergies and promote shared
    initiatives. Additionally, the role required identifying and establishing strategic partnerships
    capable of contributing to the development, internationalization, and long-term sustainability
    of Italian enterprises in the UAE.
  • Italian Chamber of Commerce
    Project Manager
    January 2022 - January 2026 (4 years)
    United Arab Emirates
    The role encompassed a comprehensive range of strategic, operational, and institutional responsibilities aimed at strengthening and promoting the presence of Italian businesses within the UAE market. Key functions included the development and implementation of strategic initiatives aligned with the evolving economic landscape of the UAE, with the objective of supporting the growth, visibility, and competitiveness of Italian companies operating or seeking to enter the market. The position also involved building and maintaining constructive relationships with local government authorities, regulatory institutions, and key stakeholders, facilitating dialogue, cooperation, and institutional support for the Italian business community. A significant component of the role focused on stakeholder engagement and networking, fostering collaboration with other international chambers of commerce, trade associations, business councils, and industry leaders to create synergies and promote shared initiatives. Additionally, the role required identifying and establishing strategic partnerships capable of contributing to the development, internationalization, and long-term sustainability of Italian enterprises in the UAE. Operational and managerial responsibilities included overseeing organizational activities, coordinating projects and initiatives, and ensuring effective financial management through the preparation and supervision of budgets, guaranteeing that resources were allocated efficiently to support the Chamber's programs and strategic objectives. The role also included the management and coordination of the internal team, overseeing HR-related functions such as staff supervision, organizational development, performance management, and fostering a collaborative and results-oriented working environment.

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Education

  • Orientation Program for the General Director
    Italian Chamber of Commerce
    Orientation Program for the General Director
  • Degree in Economy and Business Management
    UniMercatorum University Italy
    Degree in Economy and Business Management

Skill set

Categories