Political Communications Director (Dubai based)

We are seeking a Director with extensive experience in political communications experience to provide direct communications support to Governments.The successful candidate will be based in Dubai and should be willing to travel on a regular basis, particularly within the region, and more widely as necessary.RESPONSIBILITIES COMMUNICATIONSDelivery of political strategic communications to clients across the Middle EastResponsibility for leading clients, providing direct, high quality communications supportAccount lead for allocated clients with overall responsibility for the account, serving asPrimary liaison to the client, managing Work in Progress and delegation of tasks, oversight ofall briefings and documents to the client and strategy development and activationProvide political, economic and investment analysis of current and emerging regional issuesand trendsResponsibility for sign off on narrative and messaging, talking points and factsheetsRegular delivery of direct strategic communications advice and support to clients, usingexperience and understanding of the geopolitical landscape to inform client content andadviceLead on the delivery of general PR tasks including press releases, media engagement,stakeholder mapping, stakeholder engagement and client researchStrong ability to write presentations (using tools such as PowerPoint) to a high standard -including content and appropriate designLead on production of speeches and op-eds, and producing messaging, talking points andnarrativeResponsibility for media, stakeholder and influencer relations - identifying key media, mapplan of engagement and support in cultivating relationships. With the ability to deliver sensitive briefings and manage interactions.RESEARCH AND ANALYSISLead proactive political and economic analysis of current and emerging issues for the client and internally, which helps to inform communications advice and campaignsLead on producing briefing notes for clients, ensuring quality control and deadlines are met, taking into account translation requirementsDraft initial proposals for new business pitches and contribute to presentationsLEADERSHIP & MANAGEMENTActively seek to develop the skills of staff you line manage, conducting regular feedback meetings and formal reviewsManage delegation of work to staff on the accounts which you lead whilst empowering staff and taking account of developmental needs and capacityContribute to new business leadsResponsibility for financial management of allocated accountsContribute to initiatives that support best practice and wider company progressSKILLS REQUIRED ESSENTIAL15+ years' experience in government communications; agency experience a bonusGood understanding of political dynamics and work of governmentsExcellent writing skillsSignificant experience delivering communications campaigns including preparation ofcommunications materials and delivery of campaignsExperience leading and directing the development and implementation of communicationsstrategiesLeadership skills - experience of managing and developing staffAbility to lead teamsExcellent IT skills, including Word, PPT and ExcelExperience of managing client relationshipsAnalytical skills and tactical judgement Political Organizations,Public Relations and Communications Services,Public Policy Offices