Legal Counsel – Media Venture

About the role

We are seeking an experienced Legal Counsel to lead the legal function of a newly launched media venture within our Group. Reporting to the General Counsel, you will build the legal framework from scratch and provide business‑focused advice to senior management.

Key responsibilities

• Set up legal processes, templates, approval workflows and internal policies for the venture.
• Lead licensing and ensure ongoing compliance with the UAE Media Council and other regional regulators.
• Review content, promotional material and advertising for legal risk, managing defamation, privacy, IP and regulatory exposure.
• Draft and negotiate production, content acquisition, talent, advertising, sponsorship and distribution agreements.
• Protect original content, formats and brand assets, clearing third‑party rights such as music and image rights.
• Implement privacy policies and data handling procedures in line with UAE and regional data protection laws.
• Manage legal claims, negotiate settlements and oversee external counsel in litigation.
• Respond to court, prosecution and regulator requests, including takedown and blocking orders.
• Advise internal teams on legal matters and train content, editorial and production staff on media law.

Required profile

• Bachelor’s degree in Law; a Master’s in Media, IP or Commercial Law is an advantage.
• At least 7 years of legal experience, including 3+ years in media, broadcasting, publishing or entertainment.
• Proven experience in a media organisation, preferably in the MENA region, and experience setting up legal processes for a new business.
• Strong knowledge of UAE media law, cybercrime, data protection legislation and UAE Media Council regulations.
• Excellent written and spoken English with strong legal drafting skills; Arabic is a plus.