Associate Director – Strategic Communications Consultancy | Abu Dhabi, UAE

We are partnering with a highly regarded independent strategic communications consultancy to appoint an Associate Director to join their growing team in Abu Dhabi.

The consultancy combines strategic thinking with data-led insight and behavioural understanding to deliver integrated solutions. As a result, it has built a strong reputation for advising on complex, business-critical mandates. With ambitious growth plans in the region, they are now seeking an entrepreneurial and commercially minded Associate Director to play a key role in the Abu Dhabi office.

The Opportunity: Associate Director Communications Role in Abu Dhabi

This is a senior leadership position for an experienced communications professional who thrives in a fast-moving, high-trust advisory environment. In particular, it will suit someone who enjoys operating at the intersection of strategy, influence and execution. You will lead complex, multidisciplinary communications programmes while acting as a trusted adviser to senior stakeholders. At the same time, you will develop and inspire high-performing teams and contribute meaningfully to business growth and operational excellence in the UAE market. Ultimately, this role offers the opportunity to shape both client outcomes and the direction of a growing regional office.

Key Responsibilities of the Associate Director – Strategic Communications

• Set and uphold standards of excellence across client accounts, ensuring consistently high-quality delivery.
• Develop and execute complex, integrated communications strategies aligned to business-critical objectives.
• Lead client presentations and play a central role in new business pitches, challenging briefs with strategic insight and evidence-led thinking.
• Strengthen and evolve client relationships toward higher-value advisory mandates.
• Manage media and political engagement, cultivating relevant regional networks to support client portfolios.
• Lead, motivate and develop high-performing teams, providing ongoing feedback and mentorship.
• Identify and respond to emerging issues or crises with clear, strategic counsel.
• Drive organic growth across existing accounts and support wider business development initiatives.
• Implement efficiencies in ways of working, including the thoughtful adoption of AI and digital tools.
• Contribute to a positive, inclusive workplace culture and act as a visible role model within the consultancy.
• Share knowledge across the team, lead training sessions, and champion continuous professional development.

Associate Director Candidate Profile – UAE Communications Leadership

• Significant experience within a communications agency or senior in-house communications role, advising on business-critical issues.
• Strong understanding of the UAE and broader Middle East media and stakeholder landscape.
• Proven ability to lead motivated, high-performing teams delivering exceptional client outcomes.
• Trusted strategic adviser with deep understanding of client industries and markets.
• Extensive experience in issues and crisis management.
• Strong and credible network across media, political and corporate stakeholders in the region.
• Commercially aware, with experience contributing to business development and account growth.
• Confident mentoring colleagues and leading training sessions.
• Comfortable leveraging digital and AI tools to enhance strategic thinking and operational efficiency.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills.

Why Join This Strategic Communications Consultancy in Abu Dhabi?

This is a rare opportunity to join a highly respected strategic advisory firm at a pivotal stage of its regional growth. You will have genuine influence, direct access to senior decision-makers, and the platform to shape both client strategy and the future direction of the Abu Dhabi office.

If you are an ambitious communications leader seeking autonomy, intellectual challenge and meaningful impact, please get in touch with our team, including a copy of your CV via the form below.

Hanson Search is a globally recognised, award-winning talent advisory and headhunting consultancy. Our expertise lies in building successful ventures worldwide through our recruitment, interim and executive search in communications, sustainability, public affairs and policy, digital marketing and sales and commercial.