Jehan Al Saeed, Director General of Logistic Services Policies and Regulations for the Saudi Ministry of Transport and Logistic Services, is set to represent Saudi Arabia as Chair Designate of the upcoming 4th Extraordinary Congress. UPU News interviewed her on her important role in the UPU decision-making forum.
What does it mean to you to be selected to lead the discussions as the Chair Designate of the UPU’s 4th Extraordinary Congress?I am humbled and proud to have gained the trust of the leadership to chair such an important event. I am well aware of the significant role the postal sector plays in contributing to the economy. I hope that my chairship facilitates fruitful discussions that lead to resolutions that benefit the sector.
Can you tell us a bit more about your background?
I am a law graduate. I have obtained my undergraduate degree in Law from Prince Sultan University in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Then, my post-graduate degree, Masters in Law, from Duke University North Carolina, United States of America. I worked in international law firms during my early professional years then moved to the government and have been a public servant ever since in the area of laws, policies and regulations to different sectors and in several governmental entities. I am currently the General Director of the Logistic Services Policies and Regulations at the Ministry of Transport and Logistic Services.
You have recently taken up the postal portfolio within the Ministry. What have you found most interesting about this sector?
There have been dynamic changes happening in the logistics sector over recent years, especially with how postal and parcel services have become synonymous, leading to their recent transition in Saudi Arabia from the telecommunications to the transportation and logistics sector. Witnessing this move and being part of the change envisioned for Saudi Arabia to become a global logistics hub by 2030 is fantastic. Also, I am obviously a beneficiary of this evolving sector, and working in a tangible sector where you can feel, see and take part in the change you want to see keeps me inspired. Drafting and reviewing the sector’s policies and regulations and seeing how this picture comes together in the eco-system is very interesting.
The UPU has been actively discussing gender equality within and outside the organization. How do you think you, as a woman in a leading role during the Congress, can set an example for this?
I feel that I am very blessed and privileged to be in position where gender was never an issue that affected me personally. Saudi Arabia has enabled me and many women to reach their goals, and continues to make enhancements that allow women to take leading positions across multiple industries. I wish for all woman in this sector and in all sectors worldwide to feel that they are enabled, respected and protected. Whether she is a professional occupying a job or at home fulfilling a beautiful and humble duty. We must support one another and lean on our superiors, peers and families for their utmost support.
How have you been preparing to lead discussions during the Extraordinary Congress?
I have worked closely with the UPU International Bureau and had guidance and instructions that I found very helpful and for which I am very thankful. I also did my own studies of the topics as part of the Saudi Arabian technical teams and had guidance and support from my superiors and colleagues. I have also attended the roadshows hosted by the UPU to gain a wider exposure and knowledge.
How do you think your background in law will support you in this role?
I think the law degree comes in handy in understanding the importance of these kinds of unions in policy setting, and in understanding rules of procedure, including quorums, decisions, proposals and credentials. The legal profession provides a person with many skills; that includes being pragmatic and semantic at the same time.
What are your hopes for the discussions taking place?
My hopes for this Congress is to succeed and to be victorious on all fronts, not only the discussions. Our teams have worked very hard and have had sleepless nights for this event to be at its best. Our wish is that we make it an unforgettable, beautiful memory for everyone to take and share back home.