Public Relations Manager

About the Institute of Foundation Models

We are a dedicated research lab for building, understanding, using, and risk-managing foundation models. Our mandate is to advance research, nurture the next generation of AI builders, and drive transformative contributions to a knowledge-driven economy.

As part of our team, you’ll have the opportunity to work on the core of cutting-edge foundation model training, alongside world-class researchers, data scientists, and engineers, tackling the most fundamental and impactful challenges in AI development. You will participate in the development of groundbreaking AI solutions that have the potential to reshape entire industries. Strategic and innovative problem-solving skills will be instrumental in establishing MBZUAI as a global hub for high-performance computing in deep learning, driving impactful discoveries that inspire the next generation of AI pioneers.

We are seeking a PR manager to support its Institute for Foundation Models (IFM), based in the United States. The role is responsible for identifying and implementing strategic communication opportunities that deliver high-quality, consistent content for internal and external audiences in line with MBZUAI’s standards. The specialist will support the planning and execution of communications for IFM announcements, events, and milestones, on key communications channels while also strengthening relationships with U.S. and international media.

The role serves as a key support for MBZUAI representatives in media engagements and assists in managing day-to-day media relations and key communications channels to enhance the university’s visibility and strategic goals.

• Contribute to the development of MBZUAI’s IFM communications strategy by providing expertise, insight, and data in accordance with areas of operation and specialty.
• Contribute to the benchmarking of communications practices and make recommendations within the department to enhance MBZUAI’s communications USA operations.

• Build and maintain positive relationships with primarily US PR agencies, media outlets, and journalists that profile MBZUAI’s offerings and achievements, increase MBZUAI’s visibility, and enhance its reputation in the public eye.
• Continuously monitor MBZUAI innovations, successes, events, and faculty, students, alumni, and staff accomplishments identifying opportunities to present stories internally, on digital communications channels and to external media outlets.
• Continuously monitor the external environment including media stories, on social media and developments in technology and AI sectors and identify opportunities to present stories to external media outlets.
• Execute the communications aspects of large and major MBZUAI events (or events that MBZUAI representatives attend) ensuring that media invitations, media round tables, networking opportunities, media activations, social media presence and related activities are aligned with and achieve stakeholder and MBZUAI objectives.

• Advise on, create, and edit high-quality content for external communications ensuring all communications comply with MBZUAI branding and internal communications standards.
• Produce a range of high-quality external communication materials that are consistent with MBZUAI’s strategic priorities and objectives, including press releases, speeches, op-eds, social media posts, press briefings, and website content.
• Develop well-written, compelling, and timely story pitches and execute press activations to gain maximum coverage and exposure for the benefit of MBZUAI and contribute to its attainment of its strategic and operational objectives.

Perform all other duties as reasonably directed by the line manager that are commensurate with these functional objectives.

• Implement relevant operational plans to facilitate efficient operations and ensure the achievement of MBZUAI’s strategic objectives.
• Ensure timely provision of data and reports to management and recommend operational improvements to support planning, decision-making, and…