Senior Manager - Strategic Project Communications & Public Affairs

Senior Manager - Strategic Project Communications & Public Affairs

Dubai Full time September 18, 2026 TYPE OF CONTRACT : Full time LOCATION : Dubai UNIT : Marketing, Brand & Fundraising DIRECT REPORTS TO : Director - Marketing, Brand & Fundraising DIRECT REPORTS : TBC CLOSING DATE : September 30, 2026 COMMENCEMENT DATE : Q4 2026

Job Summary

The Senior Manager – Strategic Communications & Public Affairs plays a pivotal role in strengthening Emirates Nature–WWF's reputation, visibility and influence by developing and delivering strategic communications, stakeholder engagement and public affairs initiatives that support the organisation's mission and long-term objectives.

Reporting to the Director of Marketing, Communications, Brand & Fundraising, the role works collaboratively across the organisation to translate complex conservation programmes, partnerships and organisational priorities into compelling communications that engage diverse audiences, strengthen strategic relationships and inspire action. The role supports the delivery of integrated communications strategies across media, campaigns, executive communications, stakeholder engagement and flagship initiatives, ensuring a consistent and impactful organisational voice.

The successful candidate will be a strategic communications professional with strong writing, stakeholder engagement and project management capabilities, capable of working across multiple priorities in a dynamic environment. While experience within the sustainability or environmental sector is advantageous, we welcome candidates from diverse communications backgrounds who demonstrate strong strategic thinking, curiosity, adaptability and a passion for creating meaningful impact.

Background

Emirates Nature is a UAE environmental non-governmental charity, established in 2001 under theHonorary Founder and PresidentH.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan as a legacy of the late Sheikh Zayed’s vision for the United Arab Emirates. HH Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan is the Ruler’s representative in the Al Dhafra Region and Chairman of Environmental Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD) Board of Directors.

We operate with offices in Abu Dhabi, Dubai and Fujairah and are governed by a local board of directors.

Emirates Nature works in association with WWF, one of the world’s largest and most respected independent conservation organizations. Emirates Nature-WWF has been active in the UAE for two decades and is renowned for its commitment to biodiversity conservation, habitat protection, sustainable development, and community engagement. Some of our flagship projects include marine conservation initiatives to protect coral reefs and marine species, wildlife conservation programs focusing on endangered species such as Arabian oryx and sea turtles, habitat restoration projects in critical ecosystems, and sustainable development initiatives aimed at mitigating climate change impacts and promoting eco-friendly practices across various sectors.

It is our organizational objective to ensure a high performing workforce within our offices with highly efficient, skilled members all of whom will be unilaterally focused on supporting and delivering conservation activities to our stakeholders within the UAE.

Major Duties and Key Responsibilities

Strategic Communications Leadership

• Lead the development, implementation and continuous evolution of Emirates Nature-WWF's strategic communications and external engagement agenda, ensuring alignment with the organisation's five-year strategy, annual business priorities and conservation objectives.
• Translate organisational priorities into integrated communications strategies, annual operational plans, measurable objectives, budgets and resource plans that strengthen reputation, support fundraising and membership growth, and amplify conservation impact.
• Establish governance frameworks, operating procedures, communications standards, monitoring and evaluation systems, and performance indicators to ensure effective delivery, accountability and continuous improvement.
• Drive insight-led communications by embedding audience research, behavioural insights, data analysis and measurement into planning, decision-making and campaign optimisation.
• Provide strategic leadership across communications workstreams, ensuring collaboration between internal teams, external agencies, consultants and creative partners while maintaining consistency, efficiency and quality.
• Champion the Emirates Nature-WWF brand by safeguarding its positioning, messaging, visual identity and reputation across all external communications and stakeholder engagements.

Conservation Communications & Strategic Projects

• Develop and implement strategic communications plans that effectively showcase Emirates Nature–WWF's conservation programmes, partnerships and organisational impact across diverse audiences.
• Work closely with programme teams and subject matter experts to translate complex scientific, technical and environmental information into clear, engaging and accessible communications.
• Support the communications needs of strategic projects and organisational priorities, ensuring timely, coordinated and high-quality communications throughout the project lifecycle.
• Collaborate across departments to identify compelling stories, achievements and insights that demonstrate the organisation's impact and strengthen stakeholder engagement.
• Develop integrated communications materials and campaigns that support programme visibility, public engagement, advocacy and organisational objectives across multiple communication channels.
• Ensure communications are aligned with organisational priorities, brand guidelines and scientific integrity while remaining accessible and engaging for target audiences.
• Build strong working relationships with internal teams, external partners and consultants to support the successful delivery of communications activities for strategic programmes and initiatives.
• Monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of communications activities for conservation programmes and strategic projects, using insights and data to inform continuous improvement.
• Identify opportunities to amplify programme impact through strategic partnerships, storytelling, media opportunities and innovative communications approaches.

Campaigns, Storytelling & Engagement

• Lead the development of integrated communications campaigns that inspire behavioural change, increase public participation and strengthen engagement with nature, climate and sustainability across diverse audiences.
• Develop innovative storytelling formats-including digital campaigns, documentaries, immersive experiences, creative collaborations and thought leadership initiatives-that bring conservation to life in culturally relevant and emotionally engaging ways.
• Work collaboratively across conservation, fundraising, digital, brand and partnership teams to develop integrated campaigns that support organisational priorities and maximise impact.
• Ensure all communications are scientifically credible, audience-centred and representative of the people, communities and ecosystems at the heart of Emirates Nature-WWF's work.
• Identify opportunities to elevate Emirates Nature-WWF's profile nationally and internationally through strategic campaigns, awards, partnerships, cultural collaborations and high-impact communications initiatives.
• Establish campaign measurement frameworks that monitor effectiveness, evaluate impact and inform continuous improvement through a test-and-learn approach.

External Communications, Reputation & Public Affairs

• Develop and implement integrated external communications and public affairs initiatives that strengthen Emirates Nature–WWF's reputation, visibility and strategic positioning across key stakeholder audiences.
• Partner with senior leadership to develop clear, consistent and compelling messaging for external engagements, executive communications, strategic announcements and organisational priorities.
• Support the development and delivery of communication strategies that enhance relationships with government entities, corporate partners, donors, media, NGOs, academic institutions and other strategic stakeholders.
• Lead the planning and execution of external communications activities for major organisational initiatives, partnerships, events and strategic programmes, ensuring alignment with organisational objectives and brand standards.
• Contribute to reputation management by monitoring emerging issues, identifying potential communications risks and recommending appropriate communication approaches in collaboration with relevant internal stakeholders.
• Support the development and implementation of crisis and issues communication plans, ensuring timely, accurate and coordinated communications when required.
• Identify opportunities to strengthen Emirates Nature–WWF's public profile through thought leadership, executive positioning, speaking opportunities, strategic partnerships and high-impact communications initiatives.
• Foster strong relationships with key external stakeholders and represent the organisation professionally at meetings, forums and events, as appropriate.
• Ensure all external communications reflect Emirates Nature–WWF's brand, values, strategic priorities and com§mitment to scientific credibility

Strategic Stakeholder Engagement

• Build and maintain strong relationships with key external stakeholders, including government entities, corporate partners, donors, NGOs, academic institutions and international organisations, to support Emirates Nature–WWF's strategic objectives.
• Partner with internal teams to support stakeholder engagement activities, strategic partnerships and collaborative initiatives that strengthen the organisation's influence, reputation and impact.
• Support the planning and delivery of communications for high-level meetings, forums, events and stakeholder engagements, ensuring consistent messaging and effective coordination.
• Develop stakeholder communication materials, briefing documents, presentations and key messages to support senior leadership and organisational priorities.
• Identify opportunities to strengthen strategic partnerships, foster collaboration and enhance stakeholder engagement through targeted communications initiatives.
• Work collaboratively across the organisation to ensure stakeholder communications are aligned with organisational priorities, brand positioning and strategic objectives.
• Support engagement with the WWF Network and other regional and international partners, contributing to knowledge sharing, collaborative communications and the exchange of best practices where appropriate.
• Monitor the external landscape to identify emerging trends, stakeholder priorities and opportunities that may influence organisational communications, partnerships and engagement strategies.
• Represent Emirates Nature–WWF professionally at meetings, workshops, conferences and stakeholder engagements, as appropriate.

Operational Leadership & Team Management

• Plan, manage and prioritise multiple communications projects and initiatives, ensuring high-quality delivery within agreed timelines, budgets and organisational priorities.
• Support the effective planning, allocation and management of communications resources, external agencies and specialist consultants to ensure efficient delivery of strategic communications activities.
• Establish and maintain effective project management processes, workflows and governance practices that support collaboration, accountability and continuous improvement.
• Monitor, evaluate and report on the performance of communications initiatives using agreed metrics, insights and stakeholder feedback to inform future planning and optimise impact.
• Develop and maintain communication policies, guidelines, templates and best practices that promote consistency, quality and alignment across the organisation.
• Foster a collaborative, inclusive and high-performing team culture by mentoring colleagues, encouraging knowledge sharing and supporting professional development.
• Promote innovation and continuous improvement by identifying new approaches, technologies and best practices that enhance communications effectiveness and operational efficiency.
• Ensure compliance with organisational policies, brand standards and governance requirements across all communications activities.
• Undertake any other duties consistent with the level and purpose of the role, as reasonably required by the Director.

Requirements

• Approximately 8–10 years of progressive professional experience in strategic communications, corporate communications, public affairs, public relations, brand communications or a related field, including experience leading complex communications initiatives and managing multiple stakeholder groups.
• Fluency in English and Arabic is a requirement. Thorough writing, editing, and translation capabilities are essential to the role. Knowledge of additional languages are advantageous but not essential.
• Experience working within an international NGO, sustainability, environmental, government, corporate, agency or other purpose-driven organisation is advantageous but not essential.
• Demonstrated experience developing and delivering integrated communications strategies, campaigns and stakeholder engagement initiatives.
• Experience supporting senior leadership through executive communications, strategic messaging or high-profile organisational initiatives is highly desirable.
• Experience managing external agencies, consultants and cross-functional project teams is advantageous.
• Demonstrated proficiency in Microsoft Office 365 and familiarity with digital communications platforms, content management systems and emerging AI-enabled communications tools.

Education/Skills

Education:

• Bachelor's degree in Communications, Public Relations, Journalism, Marketing, International Relations, Political Science, Business or a related discipline. A postgraduate qualification is considered an advantage.
• Fluency in English (essential).
• Fluency in Arabic (highly desirable).

Skills:

• Strong strategic communications, stakeholder engagement and relationship management capabilities.
• Excellent writing, editing, presentation and verbal communication skills, with the ability to translate complex information into clear, engaging and audience-appropriate communications.
• Demonstrated ability to develop and deliver integrated communications strategies, campaigns and stakeholder engagement initiatives.
• Strong project management, organisational and planning skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Excellent analytical, critical thinking and problem-solving skills, supported by sound judgement and attention to detail.
• Strong interpersonal and influencing skills, with the ability to build trusted relationships across diverse internal and external stakeholder groups.
• Experience using communications research, audience insights and performance metrics to inform planning and evaluate impact.
• High level of digital communications literacy, including experience with digital platforms, content management systems and social media.
• Demonstrated proficiency in Microsoft Office 365 and familiarity with Generative AI and emerging digital technologies to enhance communications planning, content development and operational efficiency.

Personal Attributes

• Strategic thinker with a collaborative and solutions-oriented approach.
• Highly adaptable, proactive and resilient, with the ability to thrive in a dynamic and evolving environment.
• Demonstrates integrity, professionalism and sound judgement when managing sensitive or high-profile communications.
• Curious and committed to continuous learning, with the ability to quickly develop knowledge across new subject areas and organisational priorities.
• Passionate about creating meaningful impact through effective communications, stakeholder engagement and collaboration.

Competencies

Emirates Nature–WWF Focus:

Places organisational impact and conservation outcomes above individual priorities.

External Orientation:

Maintains awareness of global environmental trends and partnership opportunities.

Delivering Quality Outcomes:

Ensures timely, high-quality programme delivery and reporting.

Building Working Relationships:

Develops effective collaborations across cultures, sectors, and geographies.

Communicating Effectively:

Communicates clearly with diverse stakeholders and across organisational levels.

Leading Change:

Supports adaptive programme implementation and continuous improvement.

Managing Resources:

Ensures responsible use of financial and organisational resources.

Strategic Thinking:

Understands broader strategic context while focusing on effective implementation.

Values

Behavior Description

Innovation

• Impact driven
• Balance between proactivity and reactivity
• Plan but not over-plan
• Implement innovatively with a future driven mindset.
• Being courageous
• Embedding MTP with impact at scale
• Being courageous

Experiment & Solution Driven

• Embrace decision making process based on adaptive management.
• Ensure all changes in decisions do not move away from original goal and MTP

Adaptability

• Entrepreneurial
• Keeping to the ambition/vision/goal and MTP
• Ensure we are meeting the plan to achieve goals whilst adapting tactical plans along the way

Together we are stronger

• Working together as a matrix organization to implement strongly

Integrity & Trust

• Be confident
• Believe in success
• Retain high level of ethics

Working Relationships

Reports to:

Director of Marketing, Communications, Brand & Fundraising

May also take directives from Director General & Senior Leadership Team, as required

Direct Reports:

May supervise staff, consultants, interns or external agencies, as required.

Internal Working Relationships

Works collaboratively across the organisation to develop and deliver integrated communications strategies and support organisational priorities. Key internal stakeholders include:

• Director General and Senior Leadership Team
• Conservation Programme Leads and Technical Specialists
• Fundraising and Partnership Teams
• Outreach & Education Teams
• Strategy/Monitoring & Evaluation Team
• Marketing, Brand and Digital Communications Teams
• Operations, Finance, Human Resources and Corporate Services
• Project Teams and Cross-functional Working Groups

External Working Relationships

Builds and maintains effective professional relationships with a diverse range of external stakeholders to support organisational objectives, strengthen partnerships and enhance Emirates Nature–WWF's reputation. Key external stakeholders may include:

• Government entities and regulatory authorities
• Corporate partners and sponsors
• Donors and philanthropic organisations
• Media representatives and communications agencies
• WWF Network offices and international partners
• Non-governmental organisations (NGOs)
• Academic and research institutions
• Consultants, creative agencies and specialist service providers
• Community organisations and strategic partners

Additional Information

At Emirates Nature–WWF, we are committed to fostering an inclusive, diverse, and supportive workplace where people can thrive both professionally and personally. As an equal opportunity employer, we welcome applications from qualified candidates of all backgrounds and are dedicated to creating an environment built on respect, collaboration, and equal opportunity.

We are proud to be recognised as a Parent-Friendly Plus Employer, an accreditation endorsed by the Abu Dhabi Early Childhood Authority (ECA) and awarded under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the United Arab Emirates, in recognition of our commitment to family-friendly workplace practices and employee wellbeing.

Our employees are encouraged to contribute beyond the scope of their individual roles. As a collaborative organisation, all staff are expected to actively participate in organisational initiatives, events, and cross-functional activities that support Emirates Nature–WWF's mission, values, and strategic objectives, regardless of whether such activities fall directly within their primary job responsibilities.

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