Head of Public Relations, APAC

Job Description:

Our client is a globally recognized financial institution, committed to delivering exceptional financial services across banking, wealth management, and investment sectors. Right now, they are looking for an experienced and strategic Head of Public Relations, APAC to lead their regional PR efforts, enhance brand reputation, and manage media relations across diverse markets. This role requires deep expertise in financial communications, media engagement, crisis management, and stakeholder relations. The ideal candidate will need to have a strong network of media contacts, a deep understanding of the financial services industry, and the ability to craft compelling narratives that reinforce the company’s leadership and trust in the region.

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop and implement an integrated PR and communications strategy for APAC to enhance the company’s brand reputation.
• Align regional PR efforts with global corporate messaging and business objectives.
• Provide strategic counsel to senior leadership on public perception, media relations, and reputational risks.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with financial and business media across APAC.
• Serve as the company’s spokesperson for key media engagements, interviews, and press briefings.
• Ensure consistent messaging across media interactions, press releases, and executive communications.
• Lead crisis communication efforts, managing reputational risks and responding to public relations challenges.
• Work closely with legal, compliance, and risk teams to ensure aligned messaging during sensitive situations.
• Develop crisis communication playbooks and train key stakeholders on best practices.
• Position senior executives as thought leaders through media engagements, op-eds, and keynote opportunities.
• Oversee the development of compelling content, including speeches, whitepapers, and thought leadership articles.
• Drive participation in industry events, forums, and global financial discussions.
• Customize PR strategies for different APAC markets, considering cultural nuances and regulatory landscapes.
• Collaborate with marketing, investor relations, and corporate affairs teams to ensure message consistency.
• Monitor media trends, competitor activities, and public sentiment to refine communication strategies.
• Engage with industry bodies, regulators, and key stakeholders to enhance the firm’s credibility and influence.
• Support corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives and sustainability communications in APAC.
• Strengthen relationships with public policy makers and financial institutions to align communication strategies.

Requirements:

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Communications, Public Relations, Journalism, or a related field.
• At least 12+ years of experience in public relations, corporate communications, or media relations within financial services.
• Strong network of media contacts across APAC, particularly in financial journalism.
• Proven expertise in crisis communications and reputation management.
• Exceptional writing, storytelling, and messaging skills tailored for financial audiences.
• Ability to influence senior executives and serve as a trusted communications advisor.
• Experience managing regional teams and working in a fast-paced, global environment.
• Strong knowledge of regulatory and compliance considerations in financial communications.
• Fluency in English; proficiency in an additional APAC language (e.g., Mandarin, Japanese) is a plus.

EA Licence No: 23S1615