The Role
The Head of Media Relations will shape and protect the organization's public image, manage media relationships, oversee crisis communication, and lead a media relations team.
Summary Generated by Built In
Head of Media Relations (UAE National)
About Iris Executives
Iris Executives is a leading executive search and Emiratisation consultancy, partnering with government and semi-government entities across the UAE. We specialise in identifying senior Emirati leaders for roles that shape national impact, public trust, and institutional excellence.
We are supporting a leading government entity in appointing a Head of Media Relations within its Government Communication function.
Role Overview
The Head of Media Relations is responsible for shaping, protecting, and strengthening the organisation’s public image across local media channels.
This role leads all media relations activities, including:
- Building strong relationships with media outlets
- Managing official content and spokespersons
- Monitoring public and media sentiment
- Leading communication during sensitive issues, crises, or emergencies
It is a hands-on leadership role with real accountability, visibility, and influence.
Key Responsibilities
Media Relations & Reputation
- Lead and manage relationships with print, broadcast, and digital media in the UAE.
- Strengthen the organisation’s institutional and service-related public image.
- Manage the organisation’s media reputation locally and, where relevant, internationally.
- Proactively monitor media coverage and recommend actions based on insights and trends.
Content & Messaging
- Oversee preparation of official media materials, including:
- Press releases and news stories
- Statements and speeches
- Event coverage and reports
- Promotional and corporate video content - Support UAE missions and representative offices abroad with approved institutional content.
Crisis & Issues Management
- Lead media response during crises, emergencies, or sensitive situations.
- Ensure fast, accurate, and consistent messaging in coordination with relevant national authorities.
- Work closely with the UAE Government Media Office to align narratives and responses.
Spokesperson Management
- Manage and support official spokespersons for administrative and service-related matters.
- Ensure spokespersons are prepared, aligned, and compliant with government communication policies.
Strategy, Planning & Reporting
- Develop and implement media relations strategies and operational plans.
- Track performance indicators and media effectiveness.
- Provide regular updates and reports to senior leadership.
Leadership & Team Management
- Lead, coach, and develop the media relations team.
- Build capability, transfer knowledge, and support Emirati talent development.
- Ensure high standards of performance, professionalism, and compliance.
Ideal Candidate Profile
- UAE National (mandatory).
- Bachelor’s degree in Public Relations, Communication, Media, or a related field.
- Significant experience in government or semi-government media relations.
- Proven exposure to handling sensitive media issues or reputational challenges.
- Strong understanding of the UAE media landscape and government communication frameworks.
- Credible, calm, and confident communicator under pressure.
- Experienced people manager with a collaborative leadership style.
Skills Required
- Bachelor's degree in Public Relations, Communication, Media, or a related field
- Significant experience in government or semi-government media relations
- Proven exposure to handling sensitive media issues or reputational challenges
- Strong understanding of the UAE media landscape and government communication frameworks
- Experienced people manager with a collaborative leadership style
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The Company
What We Do
Iris Executives is a recruitment and executive search firm specializing in placing qualified UAE Nationals. They offer HR services, including staffing, outplacement, training, and change management consulting, aiming to transform workplaces and improve people's lives.
