Account Director Government & Public Affairs

Who we are:

Burson part of WPP is the global communications leader built to create value for clients through reputation. With highly specialized teams industry-leading technologies and breakthrough creative we help brands and businesses redefine reputation as a competitive advantage so they can lead today and into the future. When you work at Burson you are part of a global community of lifelong learners who thrive at the edge of innovation.

WPP (LSE/NYSE: WPP) is the trusted growth partner for the worlds leading brands. We unitecutting-edge media intelligence and data solutions world-class creativity next-generation production transformative enterprise solutions and expert strategic counselin a single company powered by exceptional talent and our agentic marketing platform WPP Opento help our clients navigate change capture opportunity and deliver transformational growth. For more information visit

For more information and follow us on LinkedIn andInstagram.

More about the role:

As an Account Director you will be a central figure in our client relationships confidently managing a portfolio of accounts and contributing significantly to the practices strategic success. You will possess the gravitas to offer strategic communications counsel to C-suite executives and senior government stakeholders and the ability to inspire and guide your project teams in the intricate world of government and public sector communications.

What youll do:

• Lead strategic communications counsel for senior B2B and B2G clients on reputation management public perception and critical communications challenges.
• Develop oversee and execute comprehensive public relations strategies impactful public awareness campaigns and integrated stakeholder communication plans.
• Drive thought leadership initiatives that strategically position clients shape public discourse and enhance their reputation within the UAE and wider region.
• Manage complex media relations for sensitive public issues and proactive campaigns engaging with key journalists influencers and commentators across diverse media platforms.
• Lead crisis and issues management pertaining to public scrutiny media challenges or reputational threats for clients.
• Drive new business growth within the Government & Public Sector Communications domain from identifying opportunities to leading pitches and conversion.
• Mentor and develop senior and junior team members fostering a culture of strategic communications excellence collaboration and continuous learning.

Experience that contributes to success:

• Proven experience as an Account Director or Senior Account Manager with significant expertise in strategic communications and media relations particularly with government or public sector clients.
• Demonstrable track record in providing strategic communications counsel to senior B2B/B2G clients on complex public perception and reputational matters.
• Expertise in designing and executing effective strategic communications campaigns public awareness initiatives and integrated stakeholder communication plans.
• Strong media relations skills across broadcast print digital and social channels specifically within the governmental corporate and general news landscapes including crisis communication.
• Deep understanding of the UAE and regional public discourse media landscape and cultural nuances crucial for effective government communications.
• Proven leadership in mentoring and developing high-performing teams fostering strategic communications thinking and professional growth.
• Strong commercial acumen including P&L oversight new business development and strategic budgeting for complex accounts.
• Exceptional strategic thinking issues management and analytical skills to navigate and influence complex public opinion and media environments

#LI-RE1