Media Specialist

Job Title: Media Relations Specialist

Location: Dubai, UAE

Job Type: Full-Time Department: Corporate Communications / Public Relations

Job Summary:

We are seeking a seasoned Media Relations Specialist with a minimum of 5+ years of UAE-specific experience working closely with leading media houses and event organizers. The ideal candidate will have an in-depth understanding of the UAE's media and events landscape, established relationships with key stakeholders, and a proven ability to secure high-value media placements across print, digital, podcasts, TV, and radio. This role also involves securing opportunities for keynote speeches, panel discussions, and public appearances for executives, ensuring the organization's thought leadership and visibility in the market.

Key Responsibilities:

Media Relations & UAE Outreach

UAE Media Expertise: Develop and execute strategies to enhance brand visibility through local and regional media channels.

Media Relationships: Independently build and maintain strong relationships with journalists, editors, and influencers from major UAE-based media outlets.

Media Pitches: Craft and pitch compelling stories, press releases, and thought leadership pieces to print, digital, broadcast, and podcast platforms in the UAE.

Media Coverage: Monitor, analyze, and report UAE-specific media coverage to assess performance and identify new opportunities.

Database Management: Maintain a comprehensive UAE-specific database of media contacts and key event organizers.

Event Collaboration & Public Speaking Opportunities

Event Partnerships: Work with event organizers in the UAE to secure speaking slots, keynote opportunities, and panel participation for senior executives.

Thought Leadership: Position the organization's executives as thought leaders by identifying and facilitating speaking engagements and panel discussions.

Event Promotion: Leverage partnerships with event organizers to ensure maximum exposure and brand representation at key industry events.

Media Coordination at Events: Manage media placements and press coverage for corporate events, launches, and public forums.

Media Placements & Broadcast Opportunities

Print & Digital Media: Secure high-impact placements in leading newspapers, magazines, and online publications in the UAE.

Broadcast Media: Facilitate interviews, feature stories, and brand mentions on UAE-based TV channels, radio stations, and podcasts.

Podcast Outreach: Identify and collaborate with podcast hosts to position the company's executives and initiatives.

Content Creation: Draft tailored messaging and press materials for each media platform to ensure alignment with the target audience.

Crisis Communication & Reputation Management

Proactive Planning: Develop UAE-specific crisis communication plans and act as the key contact for media inquiries during crises.

Reputation Monitoring: Use media tracking tools to monitor sentiment and address risks swiftly and strategically.

Rapid Response: Handle time-sensitive situations with tact, ensuring positive brand representation in all communications.

Content Development & Messaging

Localized Content: Write press releases, speeches, and talking points tailored to the UAE audience.

Editorial Projects: Develop thought leadership pieces, op-eds, and white papers for publication in key UAE outlets.

Consistency: Align all external communication with the organization's overarching brand strategy.

Qualifications & Skills

Education: Bachelor's degree in Communications, Journalism, Public Relations, or a related field. A Master's degree is a plus.

UAE-Specific Experience: Minimum of 5 years of professional experience in the UAE, with proven success in working independently with media houses and event organizers.

Event Collaboration: Strong experience working with event organizers to secure speaking opportunities and media placements at major industry events.

Media Expertise:

Established network of contacts within UAE-based print, digital, podcast, TV, and radio platforms. Proven ability to secure media coverage across various channels.

Communication Skills: Exceptional writing, editing, and verbal communication abilities.

Crisis Management: Experience handling crisis communication with UAE-specific strategies.

Technical Skills: Proficiency in media monitoring tools (e.g., Cision, Meltwater) and PR software.

Project Management: Ability to manage multiple projects in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.

Cultural Understanding: Familiarity with the UAE's cultural and business norms, ensuring tailored and effective communication.