Got to final rounds with 2 companies. Then the war escalated. Both roles on hold. Starting over - anyone hiring in digital marketing (Dubai/ MENA)?"
Hey everyone,
Not going to sugarcoat it, I'm putting myself out there because, well, I need to.
A Digital Marketing Manager with around a decade of experience across the MENA region, based in Dubai. I've worked with some big names, L'Oréal, GSK, Panasonic, Toyota, Ruya Bank, Emaar, Colgate-Palmolive, British American Tobacco, Jotun Paints, Tetra Pak — mostly through agency roles (ex-Publicis Groupe) and With a background spanning life at Publicis Groupe and a strong pull toward brand-side work, my sweet spot sits across Growth & Business Strategy, Client Services leadership, and Digital Marketing. Campaign management and ROAS-driven performance is where I've consistently delivered. One campaign I'm proud of hit 37x ROAS, so I do take results seriously.
I lost my job because of the current situation, my grace period is running out. The war created a level of uncertainty that organizations here just weren't prepared for, and roles started getting cut or frozen. I completely understand the business side of it, doesn't make it easier, but I get it.
What stings a little more is that I got through 3–4 interview rounds with two separate companies, made it to the final stages, and then… the war escalated further and both roles were put on hold indefinitely. No rejection, just silence and uncertainty. If you've been through that, you know it hits differently.
So here I am. Open to Digital Marketing Manager / Specialist, Marketing Manager, Associate Brand Manager — ideally in Dubai/Abu Dhabi or remote with MENA focus, but genuinely open to hearing what's out there.
If you're hiring, know someone who is, or just want to connect, I'd appreciate it. Feel free to DM me or drop a comment.
Thanks for reading. Stay safe out there, everyone. 🙌