About the job
We are seeking a seasoned and strategic Head of Communications to lead the planning, development, and execution of integrated communication strategies for a prominent Abu Dhabi government entity.
This senior-level position requires exceptional skill in reputation management, crisis communications, stakeholder engagement, and public affairs, with a firm understanding of the local government landscape, national agenda, and cultural context.
The ideal candidate will be a trusted advisor to senior leadership, capable of navigating complex policy environments and delivering communication strategies that support the organization's mandate, enhance public trust, and reinforce Abu Dhabi's vision.
Key Responsibilities:
Strategic & Corporate Communications
- Lead the development of a unified communications strategy aligned with the organization's strategic goals and Abu Dhabi's broader government priorities.
- Ensure all internal and external messaging reflects the organization's values, mission, and commitment to public service.
- Advise senior leadership on communication implications of policy decisions and strategic initiatives.
Reputation & Crisis Management
- Develop and implement reputation risk mitigation plans.
- Serve as the crisis communications lead, managing response protocols for sensitive or high-profile issues.
- Provide real-time strategic counsel to senior officials during crises or emerging public issues.
Government & Stakeholder Engagement
- Foster and maintain strategic relationships with government entities, regulators, policy influencers, and key institutional stakeholders.
- Represent the communications function in intergovernmental committees and working groups.
- Align communication efforts with national and emirate-level initiatives, such as Vision 2030.
Media & Public Relations
- Oversee all media relations, including strategy, spokesperson training, press briefings, and media inquiries.
- Maintain strong relationships with local and regional media outlets to ensure fair and accurate coverage.
- Supervise the development of content for press releases, speeches, official statements, and public reports.
Public Engagement & Event Management
- Design and lead public awareness campaigns, community outreach, and educational initiatives.
- Manage high-profile government events, ceremonies, and public consultations.
- Ensure all events and campaigns are inclusive, culturally relevant, and aligned with the organization's objectives.
Leadership & Team Management
- Lead a multidisciplinary communications team including PR, media, digital, and stakeholder engagement professionals.
- Manage external agencies, consultants, and vendors to ensure high-quality, cost-effective delivery.
- Foster a high-performance culture that encourages innovation and continuous improvement.
Requirements:
- Minimum 10-15 years' experience in communications, public affairs, or government relations, with at least 5 years in a leadership role.
- Experience working within or closely with UAE government entities, ideally in Abu Dhabi.
- Strong crisis management, media handling, and stakeholder engagement expertise.
- Bachelor's degree in Communications, Public Administration, Political Science, or a related field; Master's preferred.
- Bilingual proficiency in Arabic and English is preferable
- Strategic foresight and policy alignment
- High-level stakeholder engagement and diplomacy
- Cultural and political sensitivity
- Executive presence and leadership gravitas
- Media-savvy with excellent written and verbal communication
- Resilience and agility in complex, high-pressure environments
Benefits: ..
Consultant Name: Suhan Ahsan
Consultant Email: