Director (Automotive Aftermarket)

Job Description

Our client, a multinational company is looking for a Director (Automotive Aftermarket) to be based in Dubai.

• Develop and execute the Automotive Aftermarket business strategy and sales approach for the market, aligning with short- and long-term revenue and profitability targets in collaboration with the VP – ISMEA region (India, Middle East, and Africa).
• Take ownership of market turnover and operating profit, ensuring alignment with regional sales strategies and adapting approaches within the area of responsibility when required.
• Strengthen and expand both new and existing sales and organizational structures to consistently meet or exceed sales objectives.
• Prepare sales and profitability plans, forecasts, and conduct monthly performance analysis and reporting for the market.
• Define product pricing strategies in coordination with the Regional Pricing Director.
• Drive the implementation of a multi-brand strategy in the market in partnership with the VP – ISMEA region.
• Establish local distribution and market development strategies, including defining commercial terms (e.g., rebates, incentives), and lead customer contract negotiations within the assigned market.
• Monitor market trends, customer needs, and competitor activities to proactively respond to changes.
• Oversee all customer-related contractual elements, including RFQs, pricing, delivery, packaging, and payment terms in line with sales requirements.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with customers, partners, and key industry stakeholders, while leading customer-focused marketing initiatives such as promotions, audits, training sessions, seminars, and plant visits.
• Lead, mentor, and develop a team comprising key account managers, sales, pricing, and product professionals to drive business growth and achieve targets.
• Oversee logistics operations and track financial KPIs such as receivables and cash flow to support overall sales and profitability goals.
• Ensure all internal and external processes and procedures related to business operations are properly established and maintained.
• Initiate (for OES) or request (for IAM) localization programs and support cross-functional teams in implementing product localization initiatives.
• Assume functional oversight of Engineering where applicable within the region.
• Undertake additional tasks or projects as assigned by management.
• Ensure full compliance with environmental, health, and safety (EHS) standards within the department.

Requirements:

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Business Administration, or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and practical experience
• Minimum of 7 years relevant experience in the automotive and/or industrial independent aftermarket sector, including exposure to the Middle East, Levant, and East Africa regions
• At least 5 years of experience in general and team management roles
• Strong business acumen with a customer-focused approach, along with excellent organizational, coordination, and problem-solving skills; able to work independently and perform effectively under pressure
• Proven negotiation capabilities
• Demonstrated leadership and entrepreneurial mindset, with strong conflict resolution and communication skills
• Fluent in English, both written and spoken
• Knowledge of Arabic and Indian languages is considered an advantage
• Proficient in Microsoft Office applications
• Basic understanding of ERP systems