Account Director - Government & Public Affairs

Who we are:

Burson, part of WPP, is the global communications leader built to create value for clients through reputation. With highly specialized teams, industry-leading technologies and breakthrough creative, we help brands and businesses redefine reputation as a competitive advantage so they can lead today and into the future. When you work at Burson, you are part of a global community of lifelong learners who thrive at the edge of innovation.

WPP (LSE/NYSE: WPP) is the trusted growth partner for the world’s leading brands. We unite cutting-edge media intelligence and data solutions, world-class creativity, next-generation production, transformative enterprise solutions and expert strategic counsel in a single company – powered by exceptional talent and our agentic marketing platform, WPP Open, to help our clients navigate change, capture opportunity and deliver transformational growth. For more information, visit WPP.com 

For more information visit bursonglobal.com and follow us on LinkedIn and Instagram.

More about the role:

As an Account Director, you will be a central figure in our client relationships, confidently managing a portfolio of accounts and contributing significantly to the practice's strategic success. You will possess the gravitas to offer strategic communications counsel to C-suite executives and senior government stakeholders, and the ability to inspire and guide your project teams in the intricate world of government and public sector communications.

What you'll do:

• Lead strategic communications counsel for senior B2B and B2G clients on reputation management, public perception, and critical communications challenges.


• Develop, oversee, and execute comprehensive public relations strategies, impactful public awareness campaigns, and integrated stakeholder communication plans.


• Drive thought leadership initiatives that strategically position clients, shape public discourse, and enhance their reputation within the UAE and wider region.


• Manage complex media relations for sensitive public issues and proactive campaigns, engaging with key journalists, influencers, and commentators across diverse media platforms.


• Lead crisis and issues management pertaining to public scrutiny, media challenges, or reputational threats for clients.


• Drive new business growth within the Government & Public Sector Communications domain, from identifying opportunities to leading pitches and conversion.


• Mentor and develop senior and junior team members, fostering a culture of strategic communications excellence, collaboration, and continuous learning.

Experience that contributes to success:

• Proven experience as an Account Director or Senior Account Manager, with significant expertise in strategic communications, and media relations, particularly with government or public sector clients.


• Demonstrable track record in providing strategic communications counsel to senior B2B/B2G clients on complex public perception and reputational matters.


• Expertise in designing and executing effective strategic communications campaigns, public awareness initiatives, and integrated stakeholder communication plans.


• Strong media relations skills across broadcast, print, digital, and social channels, specifically within the governmental, corporate, and general news landscapes, including crisis communication.


• Deep understanding of the UAE and regional public discourse, media landscape, and cultural nuances crucial for effective government communications.


• Proven leadership in mentoring and developing high-performing teams, fostering strategic communications thinking and professional growth.


• Strong commercial acumen, including P&L oversight, new business development, and strategic budgeting for complex accounts.


• Exceptional strategic thinking, issues management, and analytical skills to navigate and influence complex public opinion and media environments

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