Who We Are
Burson is the global communications leader built to create value for clients through reputation. With highly specialized teams, industry-leading technologies and breakthrough creative, we help brands and businesses redefine reputation as a competitive advantage so they can lead today and into the future. When you work at Burson, you are part of a global community of lifelong learners who thrive at the edge of innovation.
Burson is part of WPP (LSE/NYSE: WPP), the creative transformation company. For more information visit bursonglobal.com and follow us on LinkedIn and Instagram.
More About The Role
Burson's MENA operations stand as one of the largest and most respected communications agencies in the region, delivering impactful strategies rooted in craft, curiosity, counsel, and camaraderie. Burson MENA is a trusted partner for clients navigating complex communications and public affairs landscapes, shaping reputations, and driving business outcomes across diverse sectors.
Burson MENA has offices in Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Saudi Arabia and also part of the region is Qatar, Jordan, Bahrain and Egypt. Our team combines strategic expertise with AI-driven insights to craft compelling narratives that influence key decision-makers. Backed by a strong international and global network, we provide innovative, data-driven solutions that connect with audiences and create lasting impact. At Burson, our inclusive and high-performance culture fuels innovation, empowering individuals to excel and collaborate in a dynamic environment where growth thrives.
As an Account Manager or Senior Account Manager, you will be seconded directly into one of our largest and most prestigious government clients in Abu Dhabi, serving as a dedicated strategic communications and public relations expert. You will play a crucial role in managing key communication projects and initiatives from within the client's environment, working closely with their internal teams and relevant Burson stakeholders. You will also provide essential guidance and support, potentially mentoring junior team members within the client's structure. Your remit will include developing and executing effective communication strategies designed to enhance the public understanding, manage reputation, and articulate the vision and policies of our government client. Your strong blend of exceptional communication, project management, content & copywriting skills, cross-functional collaboration, and analytical abilities will be pivotal in delivering impactful campaigns.
What You'll Do
- Serve as the main point of contact for strategic communications and public relations initiatives within the seconded client environment, building strong relationships with internal stakeholders and external partners, and providing strategic counsel on reputation, media engagement, and public perception challenges.
- Develop and execute comprehensive, integrated communications and PR strategies and campaigns aligned with the government client's goals, focusing on reputation management, public awareness, and effective messaging.
- Cultivate and maintain strong relationships with media outlets, key opinion leaders, and relevant public stakeholders, proactively pitching stories and securing positive coverage for the client's initiatives and achievements.
- Contribute to crisis communication planning and provide support during sensitive situations, managing media inquiries and public scrutiny to protect and enhance the client's reputation.
- Lead the development of high-quality, compelling content across various platforms (e.g., press releases, statements, speeches, digital content, reports, Q&As) ensuring accuracy, tone, and strategic impact in both Arabic and English.
- Lead, mentor, and inspire junior team members within the client's team or joint project teams, providing guidance, feedback, and fostering their professional development.
Experience That Contributes To Success
- Proven experience as an Account Manager or Senior Account Manager, with significant experience working either within or seconded to a government entity, or in public relations/strategic communications consulting focused on government clients.
- Demonstrable track record in managing client relationships and acting as a trusted strategic advisor within a client's internal environment on communication and reputation issues related to public policy and government initiatives.
- Extensive media relations expertise, specifically with government, national, and international media, including proactive pitching and advocacy-focused coverage in the UAE and wider GCC region.
- Proven ability to manage complex communications and PR projects, from planning to execution and evaluation, within a fast-paced environment.
- Exceptional content creation and copywriting skills, with a portfolio demonstrating proficiency in drafting diverse communications materials (e.g., speeches, reports, policy summaries, press releases) for government audiences.
- Fluency in both Arabic and English (spoken and written) is essential, with a strong understanding of cultural nuances and effective communication in both languages.
- Proven leadership skills, including mentoring, performance management, and career planning for junior team members and/or project teams.
- Exceptional communication, project management, and analytical skills, capable of delivering impactful campaigns within a complex political and public environment.
You Belong At Burson
Our vision is for Burson to be the leading academy company for creative communications professionals and emerging leaders. We provide a dynamic environment where ambitious colleagues come to elevate their skills, expand their networks, and ultimately, produce the best solutions for today's leading brands. Our commitment to your growth is reflected in our robust benefits and people programs, which include professional development opportunities, mentorship programs with industry leaders, a vibrant and inclusive company culture fostering collaboration and innovation and packages designed to reward and retain top talent. We invest in our people because we believe their success is our success.
At Burson, we're an agency of learn-it-alls. We recognize that the things we do best, creativity and communications, require a level of nuanced understanding. That's why it's imperative for us to hire extraordinarily talented people of all backgrounds and identities. Without that we can't do the essential work of inspiring bold ideas, fostering constructive dialogue, cultivating meaningful experiences, and driving innovation and creativity for our partners. Your unique point of viewyour talentis what makes you a #BursonPerson, and it's how we deliver exceptional results for our clients, together.
We believe the best work happens when we're together, fostering creativity, collaboration, and connection. That's why we've adopted a hybrid approach, with teams in the office around four days a week. If you require accommodations or flexibility, please discuss this with the hiring team during the interview process.
When you click the Submit Application button below, this will send any information you add below to Burson. Before you do this, we think it's a good idea to read through our Recruitment Privacy Policy. California residents should read our California Recruitment Privacy Notice. This explains what we do with your personal data when you apply for a role with us, and, how you can update the information you have provided us with or how to remove it.
