Business Director – Media Planning & Buying

About the role

We are seeking an experienced Business Director to lead strategic media planning and buying for a global media agency in Dubai. This senior leadership position combines strategic thinking, client partnership and deep media expertise to drive campaign success and business growth.

Key responsibilities

• Lead the development and execution of integrated media campaigns across online and offline channels.
• Oversee media planning and buying, optimizing investment against client objectives, audience insights and KPIs.
• Act as senior point of contact for key clients, providing strategic media counsel and building strong relationships.
• Manage annual media planning, budget allocation, forecasting and investment across assigned accounts.
• Negotiate media buying deals to secure competitive rates and added value.
• Monitor campaign performance, analyse results and provide optimisation recommendations.
• Collaborate with digital, performance, social, data and analytics teams to deliver integrated solutions.
• Maintain knowledge of the UAE/MENA media landscape and identify emerging platforms and trends.
• Lead, mentor and develop a team of planners, buyers and account managers.
• Ensure account profitability, resource planning and achievement of financial targets.

Required profile

• 8‑12+ years of media planning and buying experience, preferably in an agency setting.
• Previous senior leadership role such as Business Director or Associate Business Director.
• Proven track record managing large media budgets and high‑profile client accounts.
• Strong commercial acumen with experience in budget management and revenue growth.
• Excellent client relationship management and ability to influence senior stakeholders.
• Experience in the UAE or wider MENA market is highly desirable.

Required skills

• Integrated media planning and buying expertise.
• Negotiation and media rate optimisation.
• Budget forecasting and financial performance management.
• Analytical thinking with ability to translate data into actionable media recommendations.
• Leadership and team development capabilities.