Business Development Manager - Automotive & Marine Engine Manufacturing

Our client is a global leader in the design and manufacturing of advanced diesel engine solutions for marine, defense, and industrial applications. With production facilities in Austria, they are expanding into the Middle East and seeking a highly connected and experienced professional to drive their market entry and sales strategy.

Role Overview

The Business Development Manager will play a crucial role in establishing our client’s presence in the Middle East. This position requires a proactive and well-connected sales professional with experience in the marine, defense, and/or industrial engine sectors. The successful candidate will leverage their network to introduce our client’s products to key distributors, defense contractors, and industrial partners.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and execute a market entry strategy to establish the brand and product presence in the Middle East.
• Identify, engage, and develop relationships with key distributors, defense sector contacts, and industrial clients.
• Conduct market research to determine the best country for a regional entity, considering factors such as legalities, tax implications, and market potential.
• Achieve ambitious sales targets, with a goal of selling at least 100 engines in the first year.
• Provide insights on local business practices, regulatory frameworks, and trade policies to optimize market penetration.
• Collaborate with internal teams to tailor solutions that meet client requirements and regional standards.
• Represent the company at industry events, trade shows, and networking opportunities to build brand awareness.
• Report sales performance, market feedback, and strategic recommendations to senior management.

• Proven track record in sales, business development, or market entry roles within the marine, defense, or industrial engine sectors.
• Established network of contacts in relevant industries within the Middle East.
• Deep understanding of regional business culture, regulatory frameworks, and trade policies.
• Strong negotiation and deal-closing skills.
• Self-motivated and able to work independently with minimal supervision.
• Fluent in English; Arabic proficiency

• Competitive base salary with uncapped commission potential (2% of total sales value).
• The opportunity to spearhead market expansion and shape the company’s regional strategy.
• A path to potential leadership, with an opportunity to transition into a General Manager role if market entry is successful.
• Support from a global company with a reputation for innovation and quality.

Equal Employment Opportunity and Non-Discrimination Policy 

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement 

Both Keller Executive Search and our clients are Equal Opportunity Employers in accordance with Saudi Labor Law. For all positions, whether with Keller Executive Search or our clients, qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without discrimination, in compliance with Saudi labor regulations and Saudization requirements. 

Commitment to Diversity 

Keller Executive Search and its clients are committed to fostering a professional work environment where all individuals are valued and respected, in alignment with Saudi cultural values and workplace norms. 

Reasonable Accommodations 

Both Keller Executive Search and our clients are committed to providing reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities in accordance with Saudi Labor Law. We engage in an appropriate process to determine effective, reasonable accommodations while respecting local customs and practices. 

Compensation Information 

For client positions, compensation information is available in the job post. Actual salary may depend on skills, experience, and alignment with similar roles. Salary packages will comply with Saudi Labor Law requirements, including: 

• Basic salary 

• Housing allowance 

• Transportation allowance 

• Any additional benefits as per Saudi labor regulations 

Compliance with Laws 

Both Keller Executive Search and our clients comply with Saudi Labor Law and related regulations governing employment. This policy applies to all employment terms and conditions, including: 

• Recruiting 

• Hiring 

• Placement 

• Promotion 

• Termination 

• End of service benefits 

• Leaves of absence 

• Compensation 

• Training 

Workplace Conduct 

Both Keller Executive Search and our clients maintain a professional workplace environment in accordance with Saudi cultural values and workplace regulations. All employees are expected to conduct themselves in accordance with local customs and practices. 

Employment Verification 

Keller Executive Search and/or our clients comply with Saudi employment verification requirements, including: 

• Verification of educational credentials 

• Authentication of professional certificates 

• Validation of previous employment 

• Required government approvals and documentation 

Privacy 

We collect and maintain personal information in accordance with Saudi data protection regulations. Information collected is used solely for recruitment and employment purposes as permitted by law. 

Additional Considerations 

• Working Hours: In accordance with Saudi Labor Law, standard working hours and Ramadan working hours will be observed 

• Weekend Days: Friday and Saturday are designated weekend days 

• Religious Observances: Prayer times and religious holidays will be respected 

• Gender-Specific Requirements: Workplace arrangements will comply with Saudi regulations regarding gender segregation where applicable 

Local Compliance 

Both Keller Executive Search and our clients comply with all applicable Saudi regulations, including: 

• Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development (MHRSD) requirements 

• Saudization quotas and requirements 

• Work visa and residence permit regulations 

• Social insurance requirements 

Note: This job posting may be for a position with Keller Executive Search or one of our clients. The specific employer will be identified during the application and interview process. Employment terms will comply with Saudi Labor Law and related regulations.