Manager - Brand & CSR

Our client is a well-known large financial services organisation based in the UAE. They are looking to hire a Manager - Brands & CSR, reporting to the Head of Brands & Communication.

Job Purpose

The job holder will be responsible for maintaining the strategic direction and market positioning of the companys brand in the UAE home market, in line with the agreed-upon Group MarComs brand strategy. Will build relationships with national bodies and external stakeholders and lead the sponsorships and CSR programmes led by the brand team. Required to work horizontally with the business marketing teams to ensure programmes are aligned with revenue objectives and target audience personas.

Key Result Areas

• Lead and drive the development of the companys brand image in the UAE
• Embody a customer-centric approach, understanding and prioritizing the needs of the customer in all marketing and communications activities
• Work closely with the Brand team to ensure a one-brand approach that works for international audiences (Manager Marketing & Brand Strategy will own the whole brand strategy, including the international element)
• Lead the development of the D&I program for the entity in conjunction with Corporate Affairs promoting the voices and visibility of women and PWD from both staff and customers, in their external communications.
• Work closely with the B&C team to ensure there is a singular tone of voice developed and maintained across Arabic communication, in all channels
• Proactively build relationships with the business marketing teams to find opportunities to extend brand campaigns into product awareness, and ensure the brand acts in support of the entity's revenue targets
• Take a digital-first approach to all marketing communications and PR, in how they structure programs, as well as how they communicate
• Adopt an agile approach training can be provided
• Work with the insight team where required on brand insight programs
• Maintain a cost-conscious approach
• Work with indirect stakeholders:
  • CEO / Chairman / Board reactive updates as requested on brand matters
  • Corporate Affairs team on D&I
  • Business Marketing teams
  • Colleagues in Brand & Comms team

• Provide strategic counsel to business heads in your area and senior management teams, business unit managers and client sector leaders to build and protect company's brand name and image.
• Understanding detailed customer needs in terms of products/distribution through research and behavioral analysis.
• Operating in a cost-conscious environment to maximize ROI
• Crisis Management
• Considerable responsibility to build and own relationships with external parties on behalf of the company and be a spokesperson

Knowledge, Skills and Experience

• Familiarity with banking operations, sales and support environments, and strong customer focus.
• 10-15 years of substantive related banking experience or exceptional experience in another marketing field, incorporating analysis and leadership responsibilities.
• Sound knowledge of budgeting, forecasting and analyzing expenses for various activities.
• Proven success in dealing with various external agencies and building relationships.
• Good oral and written communication skills in English.
• Ability to quickly identify and position the business for change, both internally and externally.
• Ability to ensure all activities are conducted in line with the mission/vision, business objectives, and regulatory controls expected by the organization.
• Passion for customer-centric organizations
• Understanding of brand principles and strategy
• Entrepreneurial, strong profit orientation and strong leadership skills
• Passion for CSR / D&I issues
• Strong Interpersonal & Communication Skills