Warda Malik

AI, Fintech & Regulatory Communications | Independent Advisor

Dubai, United Arab Emirates

About

I develop and execute communication strategies for fintechs, AI companies, regulators, and sovereign wealth funds. At FTI Consulting, I’ve supported digital bank launches, helped tech firms engage with regulators, and led media efforts that drive visibility and trust in complex markets. My experience spans strategic communications and public policy, with work across the UAE, U.S., Germany, and Pakistan. I focus on both strategy and execution, from shaping clear messaging to securing meaningful coverage and aligning internal and external stakeholders. Outside of work, I read fiction, write when I can, and reset with long walks and my go-to playlist in the background.

Experience

  • Independent Strategic Communications Consultant at Freelance
    Jun 2026 - Present · 2 mos

  • FTI Consulting ()
    • Senior Director, Strategic Communications
      Mar 2025 - Jun 2026 · 1 yr 4 mos

      Led multi-market mandates for sovereign, AI, fintech, and public sector clients. Drove global visibility for Dubai Economy, HUMAIN, and many fintechs through cross-border campaigns, high-impact media placements, and executive positioning. Selected for FTI’s International Leadership Academy, with leadership development in New York, Washington D.C., Brussels, and London.

    • Director, Strategic Communications
      Jul 2023 - Mar 2025 · 1 yr 9 mos

      Directed high-profile mandates for UAE’s leading digital bank, world's first specialized virtual assets regulator, and sovereign-linked fintechs. Built integrated strategies that strengthened trust and visibility, developed thought leadership platforms for senior executives, and convened policy dialogues that aligned regulators with industry leaders.

  • Communications Manager at Lean Technologies
    Jun 2022 - Jun 2023 · 1 yr 1 mo

    Established Lean’s first events and thought leadership program, significantly boosting brand visibility across regional fintech platforms. Secured prominent speaking opportunities for senior leadership and developed content assets that elevated engagement and advanced the narrative on open banking adoption in MENA.

  • Strategic Communications Manager at Special Technology Zones Authority (STZA)
    Jan 2021 - Jun 2022 · 1 yr 6 mos

    Shaped investor-facing narratives and policy briefs for Pakistan’s national tech authority. Represented STZA at local and global forums, and led policy consultations with 115+ stakeholders to co-develop regulatory frameworks. Introduced a digital storytelling platform that raised international recognition of Pakistan’s tech zones.

  • Communications & Policy Analyst at Tabadlab
    2020 - 2021 · 1 yr

    Organized high-level policy dialogues on digital rights, internet access, and vaccine equity, reaching thousands of stakeholders. Produced regular intelligence reports on technology and economic trends and provided research that informed crisis response strategies for public and private sector clients.