We are seeking a visionary and results-driven Vice President – Business Development to lead our international and regional client acquisition and expansion strategies. The ideal candidate will be an Emirati with strong leadership capabilities, deep knowledge of the free zone ecosystem, and a proven ability to attract, negotiate, and onboard multinational clients. Prior exposure to the finance and banking sector will be considered a major advantage, enabling the candidate to build strong relationships with financial institutions and corporate investors. This senior leadership role will directly contribute to the company’s growth agenda and long-term strategic positioning in global markets.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership

• Define and drive the overall business development strategy in alignment with the company’s growth objectives.
• Set ambitious targets for international client acquisition and revenue growth.
• Provide leadership and mentorship to the business development team, fostering a high-performance culture.

Client Acquisition & Market Expansion

• Identify and secure multinational corporations, financial institutions, and high-potential investors seeking to establish operations in the free zones.
• Develop tailored market entry strategies for clients across diverse industries, with a focus on finance, banking, and investment sectors.
• Represent the company in high-level meetings, industry conferences, and government forums to build strategic alliances.

Client Relationship Management

• Cultivate relationships with C-level executives, international stakeholders, and financial decision-makers.
• Act as a trusted advisor to clients, ensuring business objectives are aligned with free zone advantages.
• Oversee client onboarding, ensuring seamless integration into operations with regulatory compliance.

Market Intelligence & Innovation

• Lead research initiatives to identify emerging opportunities in international trade, finance, and investment.
• Leverage financial and banking sector insights to strengthen value propositions for clients.
• Drive collaboration with marketing, operations, and government stakeholders to enhance client engagement.

Governance & Reporting

• Establish KPIs and performance metrics for business development success.
• Report business performance and market opportunities to senior leadership and the board.
• Ensure compliance with regulations, company policies, and ethical business practices.

Qualifications

Experience:

• Minimum of 10–12 years of progressive experience in business development, corporate services, or free zone operations, with at least 5 years in a senior leadership role.
• Strong background in finance, banking, or investment sectors is a significant advantage.
• Demonstrated track record in acquiring and onboarding multinational clients.

Knowledge & Expertise:

• In-depth understanding of the free zone ecosystem, foreign investment landscape, and international business operations.
• Strong awareness of financial regulations, corporate banking solutions, and investment structures.

Skills:

• Exceptional communication, negotiation, and stakeholder management abilities.
• Proven ability to influence and engage senior executives and decision-makers.
• Strategic thinker with strong analytical and problem-solving skills.

Education:

• Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Finance, Economics, or a related field.
• A Master’s degree (MBA) or certifications in finance, strategy, or business development are highly desirable.