Public Relations Officer

Roles and responsibilities

The Public Relations Officer (PRO) is responsible for managing and ensuring compliance with all government-related processes and documentation for employees and the organization. The role involves efficient handling of employee lifecycle activities such as onboarding, visa management, labor documentation, and Emirati-specific processes, ensuring compliance with UAE labor laws and regulations.

Impact & Scope

The Public Relations Officer (PRO) plays a crucial role in ensuring smooth employee lifecycle management, regulatory compliance, and efficient coordination with government authorities. Their work directly impacts the organization’s adherence to labor laws, employee satisfaction, and the successful onboarding and retention of talent.

What’s on the menu? (Duties & Responsibilities)

This role will take direction from the Line manager and any other team member assigned by the line manager or HOD. Day-to-day tasks will include:

• Process new labor (MOL) and visa applications (including Tawjeeh requirements).

• Handle visa renewals and labor modifications efficiently.

• Manage immigration modifications for employees.

• Process and oversee applications for family visas and golden visas.

• Conduct visa cancellations (labor and residency visas).

• Assist in Emirati onboarding and offboarding processes.

• Conduct NAFIS and pension meetings for Emirati employees.

• Support pension activities, including enrollment, cancellation, and payment processing.

• Prepare and maintain accurate finance reports related to PRO activities.

• Conduct GR checks to ensure compliance with government regulations.

• Track and report ILOE (Involuntary Loss of Employment) compliance for employees.

• Manage document collection for onboarding and other processes.

• Process probation extensions and other employment-related updates.

• Provide accurate and timely payroll inputs related to labor and government compliance.

Desired candidate profile

Qualifications & experience:

High school diploma or above education.

Prior experience in an administrative support role is an advantage, but not essential

Skills and attributes:

Familiarity with UAE labor laws and government portals.

Strong organizational and time-management skills.

Excellent verbal and written communication abilities.

Proactive and detail-oriented with a focus on compliance.

Ability to maintain confidentiality in handling sensitive information

1. Strong Communication Skills

• Written Communication: The ability to write press releases, speeches, newsletters, and other communications clearly and persuasively.
• Verbal Communication: Comfortable speaking in front of audiences, whether addressing the press, clients, or internal teams.
• Storytelling: Crafting compelling narratives that align with the organization’s values and message.

2. Media Relations

• Media Outreach: Building and maintaining relationships with journalists, bloggers, and influencers to secure positive media coverage.
• Press Releases & Statements: Writing and distributing press releases, managing media inquiries, and ensuring accurate and timely information is shared.
• Crisis Communication: Preparing for and managing communications during a crisis to protect the company’s reputation.

3. Strategic Thinking

• Developing long-term public relations strategies that align with the organization's goals and objectives.
• Crafting strategies to increase visibility, brand awareness, and stakeholder engagement.
• Analyzing public opinion and media trends to adjust strategies accordingly.

4. Social Media Management

• Managing and curating content for social media platforms to ensure a consistent brand presence online.
• Engaging with followers and responding to public comments or inquiries.
• Monitoring social media channels for mentions, trends, and potential issues that may need to be addressed.

5. Crisis Management

• Developing crisis communication plans to quickly respond to any public relations issues or negative press.
• Managing the organization’s reputation by handling negative publicity effectively and minimizing damage to the brand.

6. Branding and Marketing Knowledge

• Understanding the organization’s brand, voice, and values and ensuring all PR communications align with these.
• Supporting marketing efforts by coordinating PR campaigns, events, and promotions to reinforce the brand image.

7. Research and Analytical Skills

• Conducting research to understand public opinion, media trends, and competitor activity.
• Monitoring and analyzing media coverage and public sentiment about the organization or its competitors.

8. Event Management

• Organizing events such as press conferences, product launches, media briefings, or public speaking engagements to promote the brand or message.
• Coordinating logistics, managing guest lists, and ensuring the event aligns with public relations objectives.