Senior Media Researcher

Senior Media Researcher Location: Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates About Iris Executives Iris Executives is a leading executive search firm specializing in Emiratisation and senior-level recruitment since 2010. We partner with government entities and strategic organisations across the UAE to identify exceptional leadership and advisory talent. We are currently supporting a leading UAE government entity in the search for an experienced Senior Media Researcher. Role Overview This is a senior analytical role within a prominent government organisation, reporting to the head of the media research division. The position focuses on monitoring, analysing, and interpreting regional and international media coverage to support strategic decision-making at the highest levels. Day to day, the Senior Media Researcher will track media narratives across print, digital, broadcast, and social platforms, identifying trends, sentiment shifts, and emerging topics relevant to the organisation's strategic priorities. The role demands the ability to transform raw media data into clear, actionable intelligence that informs policy and communications strategy. This is an opportunity to contribute directly to how a major government entity understands and responds to its media environment — shaping briefings, reports, and recommendations that reach senior leadership. The ideal candidate is a UAE National with a sharp analytical mind, strong research methodology, and the ability to produce high-quality written outputs under time pressure. Key Responsibilities Conduct media research and analytical studies on regional and international media coverage relevant to the organisation's strategic priorities Monitor and analyse media narratives across print, digital, broadcast, and social media platforms on a daily basis Prepare analytical briefings and reports summarising key media trends, sentiment analysis, and emerging topics for senior leadership Track and evaluate media coverage of key policy areas, identifying opportunities and risks in public discourse Develop and maintain media monitoring frameworks and databases to ensure systematic coverage tracking Provide rapid-response analysis on breaking news and developing stories relevant to the organisation Contribute to strategic communications planning by providing evidence-based media insights and recommendations Coordinate with internal stakeholders to align research priorities with organisational objectives Ideal Candidate Profile Experience Minimum 3-4 years of relevant professional experience in media research, media analysis, or a related analytical role Proven ability to turn raw media coverage into structured, actionable insights for decision-makers Experience producing regular media reports and briefings in a structured, professional format Strong understanding of regional and international media landscapes and geopolitical context Education Bachelor's degree in International Studies, Political Science, Media, or a related field Professional Background (examples may include) UAE Government media and communications offices State-owned media organisations UAE research institutions and think tanks Government affairs and public policy teams Strategic communications consultancies Skills Media monitoring and analysis tools Report writing and data visualisation Arabic and English fluency Critical thinking and structured analytical methodology Stakeholder communication Application Qualified candidates interested in this opportunity are invited to request the candidate data form and submit their updated CV for confidential consideration. Shortlisted candidates will be contacted by Iris Executives to discuss the role and compensation details. All applications will be handled with strict confidentiality.