Executive Director of Communications (UAEN)

Executive Director – Strategic Communications - Abu Dhabi | Government Entity | UAENMark Williams is exclusively partnering with a leading Abu Dhabi government entity in the appointment of an Executive Director – Strategic Communications.This is a senior leadership opportunity for an accomplished communications professional to shape and lead the organisation’s strategic communications agenda, strengthen its corporate reputation and ensure consistent, impactful messaging across internal and external audiences.The OpportunityReporting directly to the Director General, the successful candidate will take overall responsibility for the strategic direction and performance of the communications function.Key responsibilities- Set the strategic direction for the communications function, translating organisational priorities into a clear and integrated communications strategy.- Lead and develop a high-performing communications team, establishing objectives, accountability and a strong culture of performance.- Oversee corporate communications, marketing, campaigns, events and stakeholder engagement activity.- Develop clear communication frameworks, guidelines and a consistent organisational tone of voice across all channels.- Partner with senior leadership and internal functions to communicate major programmes, initiatives and organisational achievements.- Ensure all communications activity reinforces the organisation's brand, reputation and strategic priorities.- Establish strong internal and external communications channels and oversee the delivery of key corporate messaging.- Lead the planning and execution of high-profile organisational events in partnership with internal teams and external agencies.- Manage communications budgets and ensure resources are deployed effectively against strategic priorities.- Develop policies, processes and governance frameworks that support a high-quality, consistent communications function.- Provide regular strategic reporting and insight to senior leadership, identifying opportunities to strengthen communications impact and effectiveness.- Build strong relationships with key internal and external stakeholders and ensure alignment across the wider organisation.Candidate ProfileThe organisation is seeking a senior UAEN communications leader with:12+ years' professional experience across strategic communications, corporate communications, marketing, or a closely related discipline.Proven experience leading a sizeable communications function within a complex organisation.Strong strategic thinking combined with the ability to translate strategy into high-impact execution.Demonstrable experience advising and partnering with senior executives and leadership teams.Strong understanding of corporate reputation, stakeholder communications, brand and integrated communications.Experience managing teams, budgets, agencies and multiple concurrent communications priorities.Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English; Arabic capability would be highly advantageous.The gravitas, leadership capability and stakeholder management skills required to operate at executive level.SeniorityUAEN candidates onlyExecutive leadership appointment (His/Her Excellency title)