Portland is a fully integrated communications consultancy trusted by some of the highest profile organisations, governments and individuals in the world with global offices in Washington DC, New York, Singapore, Doha and Nairobi, as well as in London.

We are pioneers in integrated communications campaigns help clients manage their reputation, improve their visibility and media coverage – and deliver global communications campaigns across multiple platforms.

Our teams of experienced and multilingual consultants invest time to understand clients from the inside out, work with them to set clear strategic direction, and then bring the whole of Portland’s abilities to bear to deliver their objectives.

At Portland we never rest on our laurels; we constantly strive to improve our work and be at the forefront of the industry.

The team:

Portland’s Doha office opened in 2014 and expanded quickly to meet the needs of our clients here and throughout the region. We have unrivalled first-hand experience of the complex interplay between government, politics, media, business and public audiences. Throughout the region, and the world, Portland works with governments, brands, companies, foundations, and multilateral bodies to devise and implement communications strategies as well as help them build capabilities within their organizations.

The role:

We are looking for an Executive with proven experience of supporting a diverse range of clients. The right candidate will also have specialist knowledge of political issues within the Middle East and the role soft power can play in country positioning.  You will be a ‘digital’ native and understand the role digital communications plays in the wider communications mix.

• Our clients value our strategic approach to securing them coverage that makes their case eloquently in the media, and to stakeholders and influencers.
• We are looking for someone to provide day-to-day support on a number of projects for one of our key accounts in the Middle East, supporting the creation of bespoke communications strategies, managing media relations and researching stakeholders.
• This role will focus on accounts within our Goverment Advisory team with a focus on the Middle East. The successful applicant may be required to support other teams across a range of clients, issues and disciplines.

Key responsibilities:

• Acting as a project support officer to ensure project implementation both in-country and from our London office.
• Assisting in the project management and delivery of digital projects for key client accounts
• Training staff and building capacity in digital resources
• Drafting and selling in press releases and news stories to leading international media in Arabic, French and English markets;
• Managing reactive media relations activity;
• Supporting the creation of media and stakeholder engagement strategies;
• Responding quickly and accurately to journalist and client requests;
• Organising events, press conferences, photo calls etc;
• Maintaining regular communication with clients and attending meetings;
• Drafting contact reports and agendas for client meetings English.

Skills & Competencies:

• Established experience in a PR/communications agency or in-house organisation
• Good foundation in media relations skills, pitching news to national, broadcast and online outlets, as well as more planned for announcements or seasonal hooks
• An understanding of press office basics – photo call notices, caption writing, briefing documents
• Strong attention to detail
• Open communicator, happy working in a flexible team format
• Comfortable operating in a fast-paced environment
• Social media proficiency – complete understanding of media channels and there use
• Excellent written and communications skills. 
• Ability to multi-task – managing both short and long term actions

What we offer in return

• We are committed to employee development and have an open doors culture where you will have the opportunity to learn from some of the most experienced people in the business. We regularly reward and promote success, and actively encourage staff to take on new challenges and responsibilities to aid progression.
• Our remuneration package also includes our competitive pension contributions, private healthcare life assurance cover, company contribution to gym membership, wellbeing workshops and activities, company parties, free daily breakfast and much, much more!
• In addition, every permanent member of staff that works at Portland is eligible for our industry leading annual profit share. When Portland thrives, all of our people share in that success.

Unfortunately due to the high volume of applications we receive it is not possible to respond directly to all applicants, only to those whose candidacy is being pursued. In addition, the length of the recruitment process varies based on the vacancy needs. Traditionally, the process takes approximately 3-4 weeks. Therefore, your patience is greatly appreciated.