At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead international media relations and develop strategic media plans for a cultural centre.
- Company: Join Aramco, the world's largest producer of hydrocarbons, based in Saudi Arabia.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and opportunities to work on global projects.
- Other info: Dynamic work environment with a focus on talent development and career growth.
- Why this job: Make an impact in arts and culture while managing media relations on an international scale.
- Qualifications: Bachelor's degree in journalism or communications with 8 years of relevant experience.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
Please note that this role is based in Saudi Arabia on a permanent, residential basis. Aramco energizes the world economy and occupies a unique position in the global energy industry. We are the world's largest producer of hydrocarbons (oil and gas), with the lowest upstream carbon intensity of any major producer. With our significant investment in technology and infrastructure, we strive to maximize the value of the energy we produce for the world along with a commitment to enhance Aramco’s value to society.
We are seeking an International Media Relations Specialist to join our King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture (Ithra). The Center is responsible for serving as the primary point of contact for journalists and media outlets around the world. Through its Communications Unit, the organization provides media relations, content generation, and crisis communications support, while engaging with local, regional, and global print, online, and broadcast channels, as well as priority arts, culture, and design industry outlets.
Your primary role is to lead and support the Center’s international media relations efforts by developing and executing strategic media plans, managing relationships with journalists and media outlets, and supporting the Center’s positioning across priority media platforms. The role also contributes to proactive storytelling, reputation management, and strategic communications support to leadership, while ensuring effective and timely handling of media-related matters.
Duties and ResponsibilitiesAs the successful candidate you will be required to perform the following:
- Build, maintain, and actively manage relationships with journalists and media outlets, including Tier 1 international titles, trade, niche, and special-interest publications across print, online, and broadcast channels.
- Provide functional support and advice to senior leaders on strategic media matters.
- Manage crisis communications, reputational risk, and response activities.
- Develop and execute media plans, including media partnerships, media visits, interviews, opinion editorials, and media calls.
- Prepare media plans, communications briefings, and question-and-answer materials for spokespersons and management.
- Coordinate media visits, interviews, and background briefings.
- Develop press releases and other media materials that effectively communicate the Center’s strategic objectives.
- Provide on-site media relations support during international events, conferences, and Center activities.
- Respond to media inquiries in a timely and effective manner.
- Identify and develop opportunities to engage media on high-value projects and support proactive storytelling initiatives.
- Foster strong internal relationships across the Center to support the Communications Division.
- A Bachelor’s degree from a recognized and approved program in journalism, communications, or a related field. An advanced degree is preferred.
- 8 years of experience in journalism, media relations, or communications, including experience gained in either an agency or in-house setting for an arts and culture entity.
- Previous experience in the arts, culture, design, or creativity sectors.
- Experience in international media relations and strategic communications.
- Experience in crisis communications, reputational risk, and response management.
- Strong networking and relationship management skills.
- A strong understanding of the media and public relations landscape.
- Experience working in the Middle East and North Africa region is preferred.
- Familiarity with the Arabic language is preferred.
- Ability to develop and maintain strong professional networks and perform effectively under pressure.
- Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage a variety of requests.
- Detail-oriented, with a strong sense of responsibility and accountability.
- Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to handle confidential or sensitive topics with discretion.
Work Location: Within Saudi Arabia – To be specified in Job offer
Work Schedule: Full Time - To be specified in Job offer
Our high-performing employees are drawn by the challenging and rewarding professional, technical and industrial opportunities we offer, and are remunerated accordingly. At Aramco, our people work on truly world-scale projects, supported by investment in capital and technology that is second to none. We invest heavily in talent development and have a proud history of educating and training our workforce over many decades.
International Media Relations Specialist- Relocate to Saudi Arabia, Permanent Expat Family Relo[...] employer: Aramco
Aramco is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to work at the forefront of the global energy industry in Saudi Arabia. With a strong commitment to employee development, our workforce benefits from extensive training programs and the chance to engage in world-scale projects that address significant global challenges. Our inclusive work culture fosters collaboration and innovation, making Aramco not just a workplace, but a community dedicated to enhancing societal value through responsible energy production.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land International Media Relations Specialist- Relocate to Saudi Arabia, Permanent Expat Family Relo[...]
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to industry contacts, attend events, and engage with professionals in media relations. Building relationships can open doors that job applications alone can't.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your expertise! Create a portfolio showcasing your best work in media relations, including press releases and successful campaigns. This will help you stand out when meeting potential employers.
✨Tip Number 3
Be proactive! Don’t just wait for job openings; reach out to companies you admire, like Aramco, and express your interest. A well-timed email can lead to opportunities before they even hit the job boards.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We make it easy for you to find roles that match your skills. Plus, it shows you're serious about joining our team and helps us keep track of your application.
We think you need these skills to ace International Media Relations Specialist- Relocate to Saudi Arabia, Permanent Expat Family Relo[...]
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the role. Highlight your experience in media relations and any relevant projects that align with what we do at the King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture.
Showcase Your Skills:Don’t just list your skills; demonstrate them! Use specific examples from your past work that show how you’ve successfully managed media relationships or handled crisis communications.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so make sure your writing is easy to read and free of jargon. Remember, less is often more!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application through our official website. It’s the best way to ensure it gets into the right hands and shows your commitment to joining our team.
How to prepare for a job interview at Aramco
✨Know Your Media Landscape
Before the interview, research the media landscape in Saudi Arabia and the wider Middle East. Familiarise yourself with key journalists, publications, and trends in arts and culture. This will not only show your interest but also help you discuss how you can effectively engage with these outlets.
✨Showcase Your Crisis Management Skills
Be prepared to discuss specific examples of how you've handled crisis communications in the past. Highlight your ability to manage reputational risks and respond effectively under pressure. This is crucial for a role that involves significant media relations responsibilities.
✨Demonstrate Relationship Building
Think of ways to illustrate your networking skills. Share stories about how you've built and maintained relationships with journalists or media outlets. This will be key in showing that you can thrive in a role that requires strong interpersonal skills and trustworthiness.
✨Prepare for Cultural Nuances
Given the international nature of the role, be ready to discuss how you would navigate cultural differences in media relations. If you have experience working in the region or familiarity with the Arabic language, make sure to highlight this as it will set you apart from other candidates.
