Senior Strategist (Arabic Speaker only)

Edelman; Riyadh; Hybrid; SAR 150,000 - 200,000; Full time

Job summary

A global communications firm is seeking an experienced strategist in Riyadh to lead efforts for Saudi clients. The ideal candidate will have 8-10 years in the field, proficient in both Arabic and English, with a strong understanding of local markets and brand strategy. This role offers opportunities for career development in a hybrid working environment.

Benefits

Opportunities for career development

Hybrid working model

Qualifications

• 8-10 years of experience in strategy and planning within an integrated marketing or public relations agency.
• Deep understanding of Saudi Arabia’s culture and market.
• Strong grasp of brand strategy.

Responsibilities

• Lead strategy for Saudi clients, assess strategic problems, and develop insights.
• Apply strategic skills across the agency, exploring culture and audience intersections.
• Create thought leadership content on cultural trends and client issues.

Skills

Strategic planning

Analytical skills

Cultural understanding

Presentation skills

Research proficiency

Bilingual proficiency in Arabic and English

Job description

Edelman is a voice synonymous with trust, reimagining a future where the currency of communication is action. Our culture thrives on three promises: boldness is possibility, empathy is progress, and curiosity is momentum. At Edelman, we understand that diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging (DEIB) transform our colleagues, our company, our clients, and our communities. We are committed to creating an equitable and inspiring workplace that is respectful of all, reflects the world we live in, and fosters trust, collaboration, and belonging.

Job Responsibilities

1. Lead strategy for the portfolio of Saudi clients, including new business briefs.
2. Assess strategic problems and work with the team to evaluate and challenge the client brief, developing insights, recommendations, and directions for clients.
3. Apply strategic skills to clients (B2C, B2B) across the agency, regardless of category or audience, demonstrating adaptability and curiosity.
4. Explore the intersection of culture, brands, and audiences from new perspectives to derive deeper insights, more provocative communication strategies, and innovative brand-building platforms.
5. Utilize Edelman proprietary tools and methods to understand the client's role in culture, guiding creative teams toward impactful ideas.
6. Participate in and contribute to the wider EMEA strategy community by sharing knowledge, experiences, and opportunities.
7. Create thought leadership content such as publications, white papers, or presentations on cultural trends, issues, and audiences relevant to the industry and clients.

Requirements

1. 8-10 years of experience in strategy, planning, insight, and analysis within an integrated marketing, advertising, branding, digital/social, or public relations agency.
2. Deep understanding of Saudi Arabia’s culture, audience, and market, with experience developing strategies for Saudi-led clients with a global presence.
3. Strong grasp of brand strategy and ability to apply it effectively to client challenges, resulting in compelling communication and creative output.
4. Excellent presentation skills with the ability to clearly articulate complex solutions to diverse audiences.
5. Strong analytical skills, research proficiency, and interest in culture and human behavior.
6. Bi-lingual proficiency in Arabic and English is essential.

Job Location and Benefits

1. Riyadh, The Business District, Airport Road
2. Working hours from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM
3. Opportunities for career development
4. Hybrid working model

We are committed to building a diverse, inclusive, and authentic workplace. If you’re excited about this role but your experience doesn’t perfectly match every qualification, we encourage you to apply anyway. You may be the right candidate for this or other roles.