Business Director - Media

Publicis Middle East; Dubai; On-site; AED 300,000 - 450,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading advertising agency in Dubai is seeking an experienced professional to lead the digital strategy across the MEA region. You will be responsible for aligning media activations with global objectives, identifying growth opportunities, and managing client relationships. The ideal candidate has a strong analytical background, over 10 years in digital media planning, and a proven ability to mentor teams. This role offers a full-time position within a dynamic and growing environment.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 10 years in digital media planning or related role.
• Proven ability to lead planning teams.
• Experience in business development and industry representation.

Responsibilities

• Lead the digital strategy and plans for all brands in the MEA region.
• Identify organic growth and cross-selling opportunities.
• Oversee development and implementation of digital media strategies.

Skills

Digital strategy development

Analytical skills

Client relationship management

Cross-functional collaboration

Team mentorship

Education

Bachelor's degree in marketing, advertising, or related field

Tools

Media planning/buying tools (e.g., DV360, Google Ads)

Job description

Overview

Lead the digital strategy and plans for all brands in the MEA region (Middle East and Africa). Coordinate all markets to ensure media activations are deployed and aligned with global pillars and agency KPIs. Identify new business opportunities for the client and generate leads. Drive growth across assigned areas by leveraging cross-functional synergies to improve efficiency and support the client’s broader goals.

Responsibilities

• Lead the digital strategy and plans for all brands in the MEA region, coordinating markets to align activations with global pillars and KPIs.
• Identify organic growth, cross- and up-selling opportunities to maximize agency growth.
• Bring in cross-functional teams to develop and execute effective digital media strategies.
• Manage day-to-day client relationships, improve satisfaction, and grow their digital business.
• Shape the digital direction and success of the media planning team; provide mentorship and guidance to team members.
• Represent the company in client and industry meetings and presentations.
• Oversee development and implementation of digital media strategies, ensuring alignment with digital direction and pillars.
• Mentor and train team members to enhance skills and capabilities; develop educational programs to expand clients\' digital knowledge.
• Maintain a comprehensive understanding of digital communications strategy and advertising principles.

Technical & Product

• Understand client requirements, set expectations, and devise plans for utilizing media outlets in line with client goals.
• Act as a consultant to devise actionable digital plans built around a multiplatform approach.
• Collaborate with departments to increase cross-selling opportunities and partnerships (media, data, content).
• Know Publicis Media products and services well enough to explain features and benefits to clients.
• Apply strong analytical skills to interpret data and drive governance across MEA markets.
• Stay informed on industry trends and best practices; have a solid understanding of digital media laws and emerging technologies.
• Proficient in MS Office; expert in media planning / buying tools (e.g., DV360, Google Ads, Meta, Snap, TikTok, X Ads, etc.).
• Demonstrate commercial acumen, delivering ROI for clients and agency within KPIs.
• Maintain strong verbal/written communication, selling skills, numeracy, and accuracy; proficient project management.
• Ensure agency work is showcased in regional/international awards where appropriate.
• Provide on-the-job training and growth opportunities; lead by example within teams.

Business acumen and Operational Efficiency

• Understand the advertising and digital media industry and the role of media planning.
• Manage multiple projects with strong organization, prioritization, and ability to work under pressure.
• Measure ROI from media plans; manage internal teams and external vendors.
• Budgeting, forecasting, and business strategy understanding; strong market knowledge.
• Interpret client objectives and develop analytical capabilities in staff; craft career growth plans for team members.
• Collaborate with Buying and Finance to address plan issues and report on media investments; oversee client and supplier relationships.

Innovative and Analytical mindset

• Think strategically, creatively, and analytically; identify opportunities and develop solutions.
• Strong communication and negotiation skills; ability to innovate and improve processes; strong problem-solving abilities.
• Lead teams and develop long-term strategy by analyzing organizational and market factors.

People and Leadership

• Develop a strategic vision and inspire others; use storytelling to influence stakeholders.
• Handle complex issues, build relationships across functions, manage conflicts, and solve problems.
• Mentor and grow talent; promote collaboration and cross-selling across Groupe verticals and practices.
• Foster an environment of transparency, trust, and professional development; coach and provide constructive feedback.
• Encourage wellbeing and drive high performance; empower teams to solve problems and grow.

Education And Experience Required

• Bachelor\'s degree in marketing, advertising, or related field.
• Minimum of 10 years in digital media planning or related role; proven ability to lead planning teams.
• Experience in business development and industry representation.
• Digital certifications across major platforms (Meta, Google, Snap, Twitter, TikTok) and understanding of industry developments (commerce, Metaverse, NFTs, etc.).

Additional Information

• R-0000P-0000
• Seniority level: Not Applicable
• Employment type: Full-time
• Job function: Business Development and Sales
• Industries: Advertising Services

Dubai, United Arab Emirates — 2 hours ago

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