Editor – What's On (Lifestyle & Entertainment)

About the role

Motivate Media Group is looking for an experienced Editor to lead the editorial operations of What’s On, the region’s premier lifestyle and entertainment brand. You will oversee content across print, digital, video, podcast and social channels, driving audience growth while maintaining the brand’s high‑quality standards.

Key responsibilities

• Provide editorial leadership and brand guardianship for What’s On across the UAE and KSA.
• Develop, implement and maintain editorial policy and content strategy for all platforms.
• Plan magazine issues and supplements at least two editions in advance.
• Oversee editing, sub‑editing, proofing and final approval of all content.
• Commission, write and edit articles for print, digital, video, podcast and social media.
• Ensure daily publishing, including copy editing, headline writing and image selection.
• Update website sections such as Editor’s Picks and Best Of.
• Produce and optimise content for SEO, following best practices.
• Grow the brand’s social media presence and online community engagement.
• Collaborate with CCO, Art Director and Commercial teams on covers, supplements, events and special projects.
• Represent the brand at events, awards and corporate functions.
• Lead content creation and editorial coordination for events, awards, webinars and other brand extensions.
• Manage, train and mentor the editorial team, ensuring deadlines and performance targets are met.
• Monitor analytics, prepare reports and support audience‑growth strategies.
• Ensure legal compliance with UAE press and publication laws.
• Support cost‑control initiatives and manage departmental budgets.

Required profile

• Bachelor’s degree in Journalism, Communications or a related field.
• Minimum 5 years of experience in an editorial leadership role, preferably in lifestyle or media publishing.
• Strong understanding of UAE press laws and editorial compliance requirements.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Proven ability to manage multiple deadlines, lead a team and thrive in a fast‑paced environment.

Required skills

• Parse.ly
• Google Analytics
• SEO best practices