Director of Government Relations and Public Affairs

Client of Timeo Performance

Job Description

Our client is a Global Energy Player and a Pioneer of the Energy Transition. As they are expanding their business in the UAE, they are looking for a Director of Government Relations and Public Affairs, based in Dubai or Abu Dhabi. 

This role reports to the Regional Vice President GCC and will help the Company engage discussions at the highest level of authority in the Energy Sector in the Region.

Main Responsibilities

Stakeholder Engagement

Develop and maintain strong relationships with external stakeholders, including government entities, partners, industry associations, strategic clients, and media representatives.

Build and nurture long-term partnerships with key stakeholders, diplomatic entities, enabling organizations, and industry leaders to support business objectives.

Lead the identification, negotiation, and execution of strategic partnership initiatives in collaboration with the Business Development team to strengthen market positioning.

Support strategic stakeholder engagement to influence regulatory frameworks, policy development, and bidding environments while enhancing competitiveness and brand reputation.

Collaborate cross-functionally to ensure business development initiatives align with broader corporate strategy and objectives.

Support development teams in fostering client engagement across both existing accounts and new business opportunities.

Government & Corporate Affairs

Monitor regulatory developments and engage with policymakers, regulators, and sector authorities while ensuring compliance with applicable laws and regulations.

Provide strategic guidance on corporate and public affairs to support a positive organizational reputation.

Analyze market trends, competitor activity, and industry developments to identify opportunities and risks.

Communications & Reputation Management

Lead crisis communication initiatives to safeguard organizational reputation during critical situations.

Develop and implement public relations strategies in coordination with internal communications teams.

Manage media engagement, including press releases, interviews, and proactive outreach to strengthen visibility and brand positioning.

Oversee Corporate Social Responsibility initiatives aligned with organizational values and community impact.

Facilitate internal communications to ensure employee alignment and engagement across key developments.

Prepare and present executive reports highlighting market insights, business development metrics, achievements, and risks.

Provide support across strategic initiatives and ad-hoc projects as required.

Key Requirements

Fluent in Arabic and English; French is advantageous.

Strong experience engaging with government stakeholders and understanding regulatory structures.

Demonstrated background in business development, corporate affairs, or strategic partnerships at a senior level.

Knowledge of sustainability and energy transition sectors, including cogeneration, desalination, renewable energy, and energy storage solutions (preferred).

Strong strategic thinking, stakeholder management, negotiation, and influencing capabilities.

Proven ability to operate in cross-functional, fast-paced environments and deliver measurable outcomes.

Excellent analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills.

Ability to manage competing priorities and meet deadlines.

Experience in conflict resolution and stakeholder negotiation.

Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, particularly PowerPoint, Excel, and Word.

Experience in preparing structured business and executive reports.

Collaborative team player with a proactive mindset and commitment to continuous improvement.

Strong interest in sustainability and decarbonisation initiatives.

Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in Business, Marketing, or a related discipline; MBA preferred.

Minimum 10 years of relevant experience, ideally involving government engagement or regulated sectors.

Additional Information

Role-based in the UAE.

Travel required, including occasional overnight trips.

Must demonstrate high ethical standards, reliability, and strong communication skills.

Ability to manage multiple assignments with accuracy and efficiency.