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Country Director Jobs in Silver Spring, MD (NOW HIRING)

Ensure up to date information in the SAF/IA partner capabilities database for assigned programs, countries or regions * Assist and support the Qatar Country Director with program management, to ...

Ensure up to date information in the SAF/IA partner capabilities database for assigned programs, countries or regions * Assist and support the SAF/IA Country Director for the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia ...

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Country Director information

What is a country director?

Country Directors are senior leaders responsible for overseeing an organization's operations within a specific country. They manage staff, develop and implement strategies, ensure compliance with local laws, and act as the main representative of the organization to government, partners, and stakeholders. Their role often includes financial management, program oversight, and fostering relationships to advance the organization's mission in the country.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a country director?

To thrive as a Country Director, you need extensive leadership experience, a deep understanding of project management, and advanced knowledge of the sector, often supported by a relevant degree and previous senior management roles. Familiarity with budget management software, monitoring and evaluation systems, and strategic planning tools is typically required. Exceptional communication, cultural sensitivity, and stakeholder engagement skills set outstanding Country Directors apart. These competencies ensure effective program delivery, strong team leadership, and successful partnerships in complex, multi-cultural environments.

What are some common challenges faced by a country director in managing cross-cultural teams?

Country Directors often oversee teams comprised of diverse cultural backgrounds, which can present challenges in communication styles, decision-making approaches, and expectations around hierarchy. Successfully navigating these differences requires cultural sensitivity, adaptability, and strong interpersonal skills. It's important to foster an inclusive environment, provide clear guidance, and encourage open dialogue to align team members toward common organizational goals. Regular training and team-building activities can also help bridge cultural gaps and enhance collaboration.

What is the difference between Country Director vs Program Manager?

AspectCountry DirectorProgram Manager
CredentialsTypically requires advanced degrees in management, development, or related fields; extensive leadership experienceUsually holds a bachelor’s or master’s degree in a relevant field; project management certifications are common
Work EnvironmentOversees entire country operations, liaising with government, partners, and stakeholdersManages specific projects or programs within the country, focusing on implementation and delivery
Employer & Industry UsageCommon in NGOs, international agencies, and multinational corporationsWidely used in NGOs, development agencies, and corporate project teams

The main difference is that a Country Director oversees all country operations and strategic direction, while a Program Manager focuses on managing specific projects within the country. Both roles require leadership skills, but the Country Director has broader responsibilities and higher-level decision-making authority.

What are the most commonly searched types of Country jobs in Silver Spring, MD?

The most popular types of Country jobs in Silver Spring, MD are:

What cities near Silver Spring, MD are hiring for Country Director jobs?

Cities near Silver Spring, MD with the most Country Director job openings:

Infographic showing various Country Director job openings in Silver Spring, MD as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 11% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution.

Assistant UAE Country Director, SAF/IA

Analytic Services Inc

Arlington, VA • On-site

$43K - $56K/yr

Full-time

Posted 10 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Manage all aspects of U.S.-UAE Security Cooperation and Foreign Military Sales programs.

  • Coordinate daily activities among U.S. defense agencies, industry, government organizations, and UAE military organizations.

  • Develop Congressional Notifications for FMS cases and coordinate associated actions.


Job description

Position Overview:

ANSER is seeking a Secretary of the Air Force, International Affairs (SAF/IA), Assistant United Arab Emirates (UAE) Country Director to support U.S.-UAE security cooperation and Foreign Military Sales (FMS) activities. In this role, you will manage U.S.-UAE FMS programs, coordinate with U.S. and UAE government and defense organizations, and support initiatives that advance U.S. national security objectives and the U.S. Air Force and U.S. Space Force relationship with international partners.

Day to Day Responsibilities:

  • Manage all aspects of U.S. - UAE Security Cooperation (SC) and Foreign Military Sales (FMS) programs.
  • Coordinate daily activities among U.S. defense agencies, U.S. defense industry, U.S. Government organizations, and UAE military organizations.
  • Develop Congressional Notifications for FMS cases and coordinate associated actions.
  • Orchestrate actions on FMS programs to advance the U.S. - UAE Air Force relationship.
  • Maintain relationships with key authorities across U.S. and UAE defense agencies, ministerial-level organizations, and military components.
  • Plan and coordinate events, including the Dubai Air Show and other trade events.
  • Track the progress and effectiveness of UAE FMS cases and programs.
  • Lead program management reviews and delegations to the UAE.
  • Host foreign partners during visits to the United States.
  • Track correspondence between the U.S. Air Force and UAE Air Force and Air Defense.
  • Compose written responses to UAE inquiries and engage with the UAE Embassy in Washington, D.C.
  • Support approximately 20% domestic and international travel.

Required Qualifications:

  • Active Secret clearance.
  • Bachelor's degree.
  • 5+ years of professional experience with the U.S. Air Force, Department of War (DoW), or international relations.
  • 3+ years of experience with U.S. Air Force Foreign Military Sales (FMS).
  • Experience using standard computer applications to support professional activities.
  • Experience with DoW acquisition policies, laws, regulations, and guidance.
  • Project or program management experience.
  • Experience supporting or working with U.S. Government, defense, or international military organizations.
  • Willingness and ability to travel domestically and internationally, including to the Middle East.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • 2+ years of experience working in the Middle East or with UAE organizations.
  • Experience planning and coordinating air shows, banquets, subject matter expert (SME) exchange events, or Chief of Staff-level tours.
  • Knowledge of F-16, C-17, or command and control (C2) systems.
  • Working knowledge of the United States Central Command (CENTCOM) region.
  • Knowledge of U.S. Government interagency organizations, including the Department of State (DoS).
  • Experience working with the Office of the Secretary of Defense (OSD), Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA), or SAF/IA.
  • Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively in written and verbal formats.