Director, GCC Healthcare Public Affairs & Strategy

APCO Worldwide; Dubai; On-site; AED 400,000 - 650,000; Full time

Job summary

APCO Worldwide in Dubai seeks a Director to lead and grow its Healthcare practice across the UAE, Saudi Arabia and the wider GCC. You will serve as a senior strategic adviser to private-sector healthcare clients, shaping policy, government relations and public affairs while driving client growth.

You will collaborate with APCO colleagues regionally and globally to deliver high‑quality work, mentor staff, and identify new business opportunities through strong stakeholder engagement and health

Qualifications

• At least 10 years of experience in health, agency, in‑house or health insurance exposure preferred.
• Responsible for shaping policy discussions and translating insights into client strategies.
• Strong stakeholder engagement and management experience is essential.

Responsibilities

• Builds and maintains senior relationships with health authorities and government stakeholders across the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and GCC.
• Serves as lead relationship manager for healthcare client portfolio including multinational pharma, biotech, medical-device and insurers.
• Advises clients on government relations, policy advocacy and strategic partnerships.
• Guides junior team members on health policy monitoring, global benchmarking and policy advocacy plans.
• Leads business development activities and pursues new opportunities with prospects.

Skills

Health policy

Public affairs

Stakeholder management

Policy advocacy

Executive leadership

Team mentoring

Business development

Client relationship management

Strategic thinking

Budget management

Education

Bachelor's in Pharmacy

Advanced degree in public health

Job description

APCO Worldwide in Dubai seeks a Director to lead and grow its Healthcare practice across the UAE, Saudi Arabia and the wider GCC. You will serve as a senior strategic adviser to private-sector healthcare clients, shaping policy, government relations and public affairs while driving client growth.

You will collaborate with APCO colleagues regionally and globally to deliver high‑quality work, mentor staff, and identify new business opportunities through strong stakeholder engagement and health