Head of Communications

Edison Smart®; Abu Dhabi; On-site; AED 200,000 - 300,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading fintech company in the UAE seeks a Head of Communications to drive strategic communication efforts globally. This senior position requires expertise in public relations, crisis management, and internal communications, with a strong emphasis on brand reputation and engagement. Ideal candidates possess over 10 years of experience in communications, including strategic leadership roles in high-growth environments.

Qualifications

• 10+ years of experience in communications.
• 3+ years in a leadership role.
• Demonstrated success in fintech or high-growth startups.

Responsibilities

• Develop and lead a global communications strategy.
• Manage public relations, executive communications, internal messaging.
• Oversee crisis response and media relations.

Skills

Communication

Public Relations

Strategic Planning

Crisis Management

Leadership

Education

Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Communications, Public Relations, Journalism, Marketing

Job description

Our Client isa fast-scaling, AI-native, blockchain-powered digital banking platform delivering Shariah-compliant financial services globally. Focused on ethical finance and financial inclusion, we are reimagining digital banking through innovation, intelligence, and purpose-driven leadership.

We are seeking a strategic and dynamic Head of Communications to lead our global communication efforts. This senior role is responsible for defining and executing a comprehensive communications strategy that strengthens brand reputation, aligns with business objectives, and drives internal and external engagement. The successful candidate will manage public relations, executive communications, internal messaging, and crisis response in a high-growth fintech environment.

Note: This role requires the candidate to be based in the UAE. Preference will be given to candidates who are immediately available.

Key Responsibilities Strategic Communications & Messaging

• Develop and lead a global communications strategy aligned with company vision and strategic goals.
• Define and uphold the company’s brand voice and core messaging across all platforms.
• Serve as the primary spokesperson when needed and align all messaging with business milestones.

Media Relations & Public Relations

• Build strong relationships with media, journalists, and industry influencers.
• Manage press releases, interviews, event appearances, and PR campaigns.
• Monitor media trends and identify strategic opportunities to increase brand visibility.

Executive & Corporate Communications

• Create impactful content for the executive team including speeches, articles, presentations, and thought leadership.
• Prepare the CEO and other leaders for key public appearances and interviews.
• Guide executive social media presence and messaging strategy.

Internal Communications

• Partner with HR and leadership to ensure internal communications reflect company culture, mission, and goals.
• Design and deliver employee communication strategies for engagement and alignment.
• Lead internal messaging around company updates, strategy, and change management.

Reputation & Crisis Management

• Develop and manage comprehensive crisis communication protocols.
• Actively monitor media and public sentiment to anticipate and mitigate reputational risks.
• Lead both proactive and reactive strategies for sensitive or high-profile issues.

Team Leadership & Collaboration

• Build and mentor a high-performing communications team.
• Work cross-functionally with Marketing, Product, HR, Legal, and Customer Experience teams.
• Manage external vendors including PR agencies and content providers.

Qualifications & Experience

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Communications, Public Relations, Journalism, Marketing, or related field.
• 10+ years of experience in communications, including 3+ years in a leadership role.
• Demonstrated success in fintech, tech, financial services, or high-growth startups.
• Strong network of media contacts in tech and finance sectors.
• Exceptional communication, writing, and storytelling skills.
• Confident spokesperson with crisis communication experience.
• Experience working with external agencies and vendors.
  
  

About Edison Smart

Edison Smart is a global provider of specialized recruitment solutions, supporting the technology industry's most innovative companies. Headquartered in the UK, we connect talent with opportunity, driving the 'Industry 4.0' revolution. With over 30 years of experience, Edison Smart partners with forward-thinking organizations to help achieve their strategic growth goals while fostering groundbreaking technological advancements.