Edelman is a global communications firm recognized for building trust through impactful storytelling and strategic action. The company is driven by three cultural promises — boldness is possibility, empathy is progress, and curiosity is momentum. Edelman believes that diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging (DEIB) are fundamental to creating meaningful change for its clients, colleagues, and communities.

Job Summary:

Edelman UAE is seeking an experienced Business Development Manager (Arabic Speaker) to join its Operations Team in Abu Dhabi. The ideal candidate will coordinate and manage new business processes, lead proposal development for potential clients, and work closely with senior leadership to expand Edelman’s client portfolio. This role requires a strong communicator fluent in both Arabic and English, with solid experience in business development within an agency environment.

Key Responsibilities:

• Act as the first point of contact for prospective clients, understanding their objectives and communicating them internally.

• Coordinate and manage Requests for Information (RFIs) and Requests for Proposals (RFPs) to ensure high-quality submissions.

• Refine and execute the company’s new business development process, ensuring integration across teams.

• Track business performance, monitor success rates, and analyze conversion metrics.

• Build and maintain relationships with procurement teams, vendors, and distributors.

• Oversee lead qualification and prioritization of new opportunities.

• Work with finance teams to ensure budgets align with scopes of work and company standards.

• Collaborate with marketing on events, case studies, and award submissions.

• Partner with resourcing and leadership teams to manage staffing and client project requirements.

• Train and support colleagues in best practices for business development.

Requirements & Skills:

• Minimum 7 years’ experience in a communications agency or similar environment (Middle East experience preferred).

• Fluent in Arabic and English (both written and spoken).

• Proven track record in business development and client acquisition.

• Proficiency in Microsoft PowerPoint, Excel, and Office Suite.

• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities.

• Excellent negotiation, communication, and presentation skills.

• Strategic thinker with a process-driven and detail-oriented mindset.

• Strong business acumen and understanding of agency operations.

• Experience managing budgets and financial forecasting.

• Collaborative team player with the ability to lead and influence across departments.

Why Join Edelman:

• Be part of a global leader in communications and public relations.

• Work in a diverse, inclusive, and growth-oriented environment.

• Opportunity to collaborate with industry-leading clients across the MENA region.

• Hybrid working model offering flexibility and balance.

• Continuous learning and career development opportunities within a world-class agency.