VP Corporate Communications 100% (m/f/d)

The VP Corporate Communications will be responsible for designing and executing a comprehensive communications strategy that will enhance Arcera's brand, strengthen relationships with key stakeholders, and position Arcera as a leader internationally in the life sciences industry. The role will be responsible for internal and executive communications, media relations, and brand building.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Brand Building & Reputation Management:
   1. Develop and execute a holistic and global communications plan that builds and strengthens Arcera’s brand identity and reputation.
   2. Craft compelling and targeted messaging that differentiates the company in various marketplaces and aligns with Arcera’s business goals.
   3. Manage brand consistency across all communication channels and touchpoints, including digital, print, and media outlets.
2. External Communications:
   1. Leverage existing market positioning to create a bold external brand. This is key in industries such as global pharma, especially in regions where Arcera is still gaining recognition.
   2. Build and maintain relationships with key journalists, media outlets, and influencers in the Middle East and particularly the UAE market.
   3. Serve as the primary point of contact for media inquiries, proactively pitching stories to generate positive coverage and thought leadership opportunities.
   4. Draft press releases, media kits, and key talking points for interviews and high-profile LinkedIn posts.
   5. Manage communications during crisis situations in line with Arcera leadership and legal direction.
   6. Understand and position Arcera in key events in Abu Dhabi / UAE and internationally.
3. Executive Communications:
   1. Collaborate closely with the executive leadership team to develop strategic messaging for public speaking engagements, presentations, and written communications.
   2. Prepare executives for media interviews and public appearances, ensuring they convey the company’s vision and values.
   3. Provide ongoing counsel and support to senior leaders on communication strategies.
   4. Liaise with the Corporate Communications team from Arcera’s holding company to ensure strategic alignment.
4. Internal Communications:
   1. Foster a strong #OneArcera company culture by developing and implementing internal communication strategies and editorial content that inform, engage, and inspire employees.
   2. Manage internal announcements, company updates, and company town halls.
   3. Ensure a consistent and transparent communication flow between Arcera’s leadership and its HQ staff and company’s businesses.
5. Content Development & Storytelling:
   1. Create, lead, and execute an overall editorial plan for various channels, including Intranet, internal articles, blogs, website, and social media.
   2. Craft compelling narratives that communicate Arcera’s brand story and values to different audiences.
   3. Develop content for investor presentations, public announcements, and executive communications to build trust and credibility with the financial community and the broader UAE market.

Key Skills:

1. Strategic Thinking: Ability to develop and execute Communication strategies for Arcera aligned with business objectives, foresee challenges, and adapt plans accordingly.
2. Business Acumen: Understanding of the pharmaceutical industry landscape, regulatory requirements, and market trends to tailor Communication value creation measures that support sustainable growth and competitive advantage.
3. Leadership: Leading strategic projects by influencing and working through others in a way that is in line with our Arcera Values and exemplifies a positive leadership mindset that makes others grow daily.
4. Performance: Strong executive presence, credibility, and authority; an executive who sets a high standard of behavior, performance, quality, and integrity. They will exhibit the judgment and business acumen necessary to raise performance to levels that would not otherwise be achieved.
5. Operational Excellence: Being knowledgeable of Communication practices across all media channels and being able to strategize as well as transactionally drive communications.

Qualifications & Experience:

1. Bachelor’s or master’s degree in communications or a related field, e.g., public relations, journalism, etc.
2. Strong leadership experience in corporate communications or public relations with 8+ years of experience in corporate communications, or public relations, preferably in a global pharmaceutical or life sciences company.
3. Strong understanding of digital communication platforms, social media, and media landscapes.
4. Relevant and strong relationships with the media and key influencers/opinion makers, PR agencies, government organizations, industry associations.
5. Experience in preventing and managing crisis situations and ensuring clear & consistent communication internally and externally.
6. Exceptional written and verbal communication skills with the ability to craft clear, concise, and compelling messaging.
7. Excellent written and spoken English – preferably a native speaker. Good communication skills in Arabic are a plus.