PR & Media Relations Lead

We are seeking a strategic and proactive PR & Media Relations Lead to elevate our brand visibility through impactful communication, media engagement, and strategic partnerships.

Location: Abu Dhabi, UAE

Reports To: Marketing & PR Manager

Employment Type: Full-time

About Forbes Middle East

Forbes Middle East is a leading business publication that highlights the most influential people and companies shaping the Arab world. As part of the global Forbes brand, we deliver trusted news, rankings, and insights on business, finance, leadership, and lifestyle across the region.

Position Overview:

The PR & Media relations Lead is responsible for developing and executing PR and communication strategies to enhance brand visibility and positioning. This role covers content creation, event PR coordination, media and partnership relations, and campaign management. The position ensures consistent brand messaging, strong media presence, and effective stakeholder engagement to support corporate objectives and event success.

Key Responsibilities:

• Drafting press releases, media statements, and editorial content that reflect the organization’s brand identity while maintaining professionalism and credibility.

• Creating compelling press materials and corporate communications to enhance brand awareness and drive audience engagement.

• Writing and editing PR-related materials including invitations, letters, and press releases to ensure accuracy, clarity, and a professional brand image.

• Developing creative media assets such as infographics, videos, and interactive content to support campaigns and increase engagement.

• Designing and implementing media plans and communication strategies to strengthening organizational image and achieving effective audience reach.

• Contributing to annual media strategies aligned with the organization’s overall objectives to support long-term growth.

• Reviewing and approving proposed media partnerships to secure collaborations that best position the brand and achieve strategic objectives.

• Negotiating and securing partnership deals to maximize participation opportunities and expand visibility across the region.

• Building and maintaining strong relationships with government entities, private organisations, and stakeholders to enhance credibility and influence.

• Managing a comprehensive media and influencer database to streamline outreach and sustain effective communication.

• Attending and representing the organization at events and conferences to cultivate media and partner relationships and expand professional networks.

• Coordinating press conferences and media interviews to strengthen the organisation’s public presence and visibility.

• Collaborating with internal departments to ensure alignment and seamless execution of events and campaigns.

• Ensuring consistency of messaging and tone of voice across all channels to protect and maintain a unified brand identity.

• Monitoring the organization’s reputation across platforms, analyzing public sentiment, and guiding professional engagement.

• Developing and implementing crisis communication strategies to safeguard the organization’s reputation and manage emerging issues.

• Ensuring compliance of all communications with regulatory standards and legal requirements to mitigate risks.

• Preparing reports on media activities, coverage, and outcomes to measure effectiveness and refine strategies.

• Tracking and analyzing KPIs through digital monitoring tools to provide accurate insights and recommendations to senior management.

• Developing and overseeing CSR initiatives and community engagement activities to strengthen the organization’s public image.

• Training spokespersons and senior executives in media handling and public speaking to improve organizational representation.

• Contributing to awareness campaigns and integrated media programs to enhance the organization’s visibility and standing.

Qualifications & Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree in public relations, communication, Journalism, or related field.

• Professional certifications in PR, Digital Marketing, or Media Relations are an advantage.

• 5–7 years of progressive experience in PR, media relations, or corporate communications, preferably in a multinational, media, or events-driven environment.

• Proven track record of managing PR campaigns, media partnerships, and event communications. • Experience building and maintaining relationships with top-tier media outlets, journalists, influencers, and strategic partners.

• Strong background in content creation, editing, and overseeing brand communication consistency.

• Strong background in building and maintaining media and government relations in the UAE and Middle East region. Knowledge & Skills:

• Excellent understanding of PR and media landscapes in the UAE and wider Middle East region.

• Strong written and verbal communication skills in Arabic; English proficiency is highly desirable.

• Proficiency in MS Office, social media management, and PR/marketing analytics tools.