Account Director, Public Affairs

Responsibilities

• Design and lead strategic public affairs programs that shape policy conversations and advance organizational priorities
• Monitor, analyse, and interpret regulatory and policy developments in the UAE
• Build and maintain trusted relationships with government entities, industry stakeholders, and partners
• Develop integrated communication strategies across traditional media, digital platforms, and stakeholder channels
• Provide strategic counsel on emerging issues, risks, and opportunities
• Collaborate closely with cross-regional teams to ensure alignment between global and regional public affairs priorities
• Prepare and oversee the development of briefing materials, policy positions, and stakeholder engagement plans
• Support multi-stakeholder initiatives, events, and advocacy efforts

Requirements

• 7+ years in public affairs, government relations, policy advocacy, or strategic communications
• Experience navigating UAE and Saudi Arabia's policy and regulatory environment
• Bachelor's degree in public policy, Political Science, Communications, International Relations, or a related field
• Full professional fluency in English
• Deep understanding of UAE's political ecosystem and policymaking processes
• Strong ability to craft policy positions, briefing notes, and advocacy messaging
• Proven track record leading public affairs teams and managing multi-market workstreams
• Experience engaging with government ministries, regulators, industry bodies, and media

Preferred Qualifications

• Arabic language skills
• Experience working across sectors such as healthcare, technology, energy, or transportation

About the Company

APCO is a global communications and public affairs firm committed to building diverse teams that bring robust perspectives to clients through expertise in policy, government relations, and strategic communications.