General Manager of Business Development

Job Summary:

The General Manager of Business Development is responsible for leading the development and execution of strategies that enhance the Authority’s commercial performance and long-term sustainability. The role oversees both the Investment Management and Strategic Partnerships departments, focusing on expanding revenue streams, establishing impactful collaborations, and positioning the Saudi Equestrian Authority as a leading player in the global equestrian ecosystem.

The position plays a key role in driving growth, building strategic alliances, and managing national and international investment opportunities aligned with the Authority’s strategic objectives.

Key Responsibilities:

Strategic Leadership & Planning

• Develop and implement the business development strategy in line with the Authority’s overall strategic direction.
• Oversee the formulation and execution of departmental plans for Investments and Strategic Partnerships .
• Identify and evaluate new commercial opportunities to diversify the Authority’s revenue sources.
• Ensure alignment between business development initiatives and the Authority’s operational and strategic priorities.

Investment Management

• Supervise the development and execution of investment frameworks, policies, and performance metrics .
• Lead the evaluation of investment opportunities within the equestrian sector and related industries.
• Manage feasibility studies, business cases, and risk assessments for potential projects.
• Oversee financial modeling, returns analysis, and post-investment performance tracking.
• Build relationships with investors, sponsors, and private sector partners to attract and manage funding opportunities.

Strategic Partnerships

• Establish and manage strategic partnerships with local, regional, and international organizations to advance the equestrian ecosystem.
• Drive initiatives for collaboration with government entities, federations, and private sector stakeholders .
• Lead negotiations, MoUs, and agreements ensuring mutual value creation.
• Oversee programs that enhance the Authority’s global presence and influence.
• Monitor the impact and performance of partnership initiatives to ensure alignment with strategic goals.

Governance, Performance, and Reporting

• Ensure adherence to governance frameworks, policies, and procedures.
• Define and track KPIs to measure the impact of business development activities.
• Prepare and present performance reports, market insights, and investment updates to senior leadership.
• Identify market trends, emerging opportunities, and potential risks to inform decision-making.

Leadership & Team Development

• Lead and develop high-performing teams within the Business Development, Investment, and Partnerships departments.
• Foster a culture of innovation, accountability, and collaboration.
• Ensure continuous capability building and knowledge transfer within the team.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Finance, Economics, or a related field (Master’s degree preferred).
• Minimum of 10 years of experience in business development, strategic partnerships, or investment management, including at least 4 years in a leadership role .
• Proven experience in government or semi-government sectors is preferred.
• Fluency in Arabic and English (written and spoken).

Required Skills & Competencies:

• Strong strategic planning and commercial acumen.
• Proven track record in investment evaluation, partnership management, and business growth .
• Exceptional leadership and stakeholder engagement skills.
• Excellent negotiation and contract management capabilities.
• Deep understanding of market analysis, financial modeling, and performance management.
• Ability to drive cross-functional collaboration and deliver measurable results.
• High-level communication and presentation skills.