Position Summary
The Public Relations Officer (PRO) plays a key role in managing all government relations, visa and licensing requirements, and brand representation activities for the company. In a luxury retail environment, the PRO also supports brand visibility, corporate communications, and VIP service coordination in alignment with the brand's premium image.
Key Responsibilities:
1. Government Relations & Legal Compliance
- Handle all employee visa applications, renewals, cancellations, and labour card processing through relevant UAE authorities (MOHRE, GDRFA, DED, etc.).
- Manage trade licenses, company registrations, and permits, ensuring timely renewals and compliance with UAE regulations.
- Maintain up-to-date knowledge of UAE labour law.
- Liaise with ministries, embassies, and government departments for any official documentation or procedural requirements.
- Prepare and maintain accurate records of all government transactions and related expenses.
2. Brand & Corporate Representation
- Act as the official company representative for external and government-related matters, maintaining the brand's high standards of professionalism and luxury image.
- Support the teams during store openings, luxury events, and collaborations, ensuring all required permits and approvals are obtained.
- Coordinate with mall management and local authorities regarding promotional campaigns and in-store events.
3. Employee Relations & Support
- Support new employees with onboarding formalities, including visas, Emirates ID, medical tests, and other legal documentation.
- Provide assistance to international staff with residence, travel, and dependent visas.
- Maintain confidentiality and professionalism when dealing with employee information and documentation.
4. Administrative Support
- Manage PRO-related budgets and submit periodic expense reports.
- Ensure timely submission of required reports to HR and Finance.
- Maintain effective filing systems for all government and company-related documents.
Qualifications & Experience:
- Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Public Relations, or a related field.
- Minimum 10 years of experience as a PRO in the UAE, preferably in retail, fashion or food & beverage industry.
- Strong understanding of UAE Labour Law, Immigration, and Free Zone procedures.
- Excellent communication (Arabic & English) and interpersonal skills.
- Proven ability to represent a premium brand image in external interactions.
Core Competencies:
- High level of professionalism and discretion.
- Strong organizational and time-management skills.
- Attention to detail and accuracy in documentation.
- Relationship building and stakeholder management.
- Flexibility and ability to handle multiple tasks under tight deadlines.
