Established in the 1930s as a trading business, Al-Futtaim Group today is one of the most diversified and progressive, privately held regional businesses headquartered in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. Structured into five operating divisions; automotive, financial services, real estate, retail and healthcare; employing more than 35,000 employees across more than 20 countries in the Middle East, Asia and Africa, Al-Futtaim Group partners with over 200 of the world's most admired and innovative brands. Al-Futtaim Groups entrepreneurship and relentless customer focus enables the organisation to continue to grow and expand; responding to the changing needs of our customers within the societies in which we operate. By upholding our values of respect, excellence, collaboration and integrity; Al-Futtaim Group continues to enrich the lives and aspirations of our customers each and every day.
We are currently seeking an experienced Media & PR professional to join our Communications team in the capacity of Global Head of Media Relations & PR.
Overview of the role
The Global Head of Media Relations and PR will spearhead our global communications strategy, managing the brand's reputation, and implementing innovative PR campaigns. This is a hands-on leadership role requiring a dynamic individual who can navigate the complexities of international markets, drive data-driven decision-making, and actively engage with media and stakeholders. The ideal candidate will bring a blend of strategic oversight and a willingness to dive into the details, ensuring the execution of high-impact media relations and PR activities.
What you will do

• Lead the development and execution of a global media relations and PR strategy, emphasizing hands-on involvement in creating, pitching, and monitoring content.
• Utilize data analytics to inform and adjust PR strategies, ensuring decisions are based on insights and results from market trends, campaign performance, and media coverage analysis.
• Forge and maintain robust relationships with key global media outlets and journalists, actively engaging in outreach and communication to secure positive and impactful coverage.
• Directly manage crisis communication efforts, including hands-on development of response strategies and materials to effectively mitigate potential negative impacts on the brand's reputation.
• Produce and review high-quality press materials, including press releases, speeches, and presentations, ensuring alignment with the brands voice and strategic goals across all markets.
• Coordinate cross-functionally with marketing, social media, and other departments to ensure consistent messaging and leverage opportunities for synergistic communications.
• Lead, mentor, and directly involve in guiding the media relations and PR team, promoting a culture of excellence, agility, and ongoing learning.
• Stay ahead of global media trends and innovations, incorporating new approaches and technologies into the PR strategy to maintain a competitive edge.

Required skills to be successful

• Demonstrated success in crafting and executing data-driven global media relations and PR strategies, with a proven track record of achieving significant media visibility and impact.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills in English and Arabic. (Arabic considered a strong advantage)
• Expertise in using data analytics tools to guide PR efforts, with strong analytical skills to interpret data and inform decision-making.
• Excellent leadership and team management abilities, with a commitment to developing team members and fostering a collaborative, high-performing environment.
• Ability to work effectively in a multicultural setting, engaging with diverse teams and stakeholders across different geographies.

What equips you for the role

• Bachelors degree in Communications, Journalism, Public Relations, or related field, with a Masters degree preferred.
• Minimum of 15 years experience in journalism, media relations, PR, or a similar field, including at least 5 years in a leadership role with hands-on strategic and operational responsibilities. (Preferred global news agencies)

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