The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) is seeking a dynamic and experienced Publishing Section Head to lead the Sandstorm Comics publishing section. This strategic role will oversee the full comic production cycle, manage the department’s intellectual property (IP) portfolio, ensure creative alignment across projects, and uphold the highest editorial and artistic standards.

The ideal candidate will have a strong background in content production and editorial leadership, excellent storytelling instincts, and experience managing cross-functional creative teams. This is a unique opportunity to shape the future of storytelling and cultural expression in the UAE and beyond.

Key Responsibilities:

Comic Book Development:

• Lead end-to-end production of comic books, from concept to final delivery.

• Coordinate creative teams including writers, editors, artists, colorists, letterers, and translators.

• Manage final digital asset preparation for both physical and digital publishing.

IP Portfolio Management:

• Strategically manage and grow the comic department’s intellectual property portfolio.

• Identify licensing and merchandising opportunities.

• Develop transmedia adaptations across film, TV, and digital media.

Creative Direction & Storytelling:

• Oversee creative direction for all comics and related projects.

• Shape compelling narratives, characters, and world-building strategies.

• Collaborate with game designers and writers to ensure consistency across the IP universe.

Quality Assurance & Production Support:

• Enforce quality assurance to maintain editorial and artistic excellence.

• Support production with proofreading, editing, and digital asset management.

• Coordinate with vendors and partners to uphold branding and contractual standards.

• Contribute to the selection and coordination of quality assurance expert committees.

Team & Budget Management:

• Set team objectives, manage performance, and mentor staff for optimal productivity.

• Prepare and oversee the section’s budget, ensuring cost-effective operations.

• Drive adherence to DCT’s values, policies, and ethical standards.

• Identify and implement continuous improvement opportunities in workflows and systems.

• Ensure compliance with environmental health and safety (EHS) regulations.

Qualifications & Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree required (Master’s preferred) in Journalism, Communications, or a related field.

• 6–8 years of publishing experience, with a strong editorial and production background.

• Minimum 4 years in a managerial or leadership role.

Skills Required:

• Excellent verbal and written English communication skills.

• Proficiency in MS Office (Word, PowerPoint, Excel).

• Strong leadership and team management capabilities.

• Exceptional attention to detail and editorial judgment.

• Strategic thinking and the ability to align publishing efforts with broader objectives.

• Strong project management and organizational skills.

• Knowledge of publishing platforms, copyright laws, and industry best practices.

• Creative mindset with a passion for storytelling and literature.

• Ability to work under pressure and lead in fast-paced environments.