National Head of Marketing

The National Head of Marketing is responsible for leading the strategic direction and execution of all marketing activities across Saudi Arabia for the specific automotive brand or brands. This includes brand management, product launches, customer engagement campaigns, digital marketing, media relations, and event management. The role ensures that all marketing initiatives align with the brand’s global positioning, deliver measurable business results, and comply with Saudi market dynamics, cultural nuances, and regulatory requirements. This role is fully P&L accountable for marketing budget creation and adherence.

RESPONSIBILITIES

Strategic

• Develop and implement the national marketing strategy to drive sales growth, brand awareness, and market share.
• Ensure alignment with OEM guidelines and regional/global brand strategy.
• Oversee annual marketing planning, budgeting, and performance measurement.
• Lead product launch strategies for new vehicles and model upgrades, ensuring impactful market entry.
• Develop projected marketing budget across a strategic time line with expected ROI.

Operational

• Manage overall brand positioning and ensure consistent messaging across all online and offline channels.
• Oversee the planning and execution of both digital (social, SEO, content) and traditional (TV, print) marketing campaigns.
• Develop and manage customer-focused initiatives, including loyalty programs, experiential events, and national sponsorships.
• Collaborate with Sales, Product, and Dealer networks to ensure marketing activities are aligned and effective at both national and local levels.
• Monitor market trends, track KPIs (brand awareness, ROI, leads), and report on performance to guide strategic decisions.

People Management

• Lead and develop a high-performing diverse national marketing team, fostering creativity and commercial focus.
• Manage relationships with creative agencies, media buyers, and digital partners.
• Lead, manage, and mentor the marketing team to ensure alignment with company objectives.
• Set clear performance goals and KPIs for all direct reports and oversee their achievement through regular reviews, coaching, and performance management.
• Foster a culture of accountability, collaboration, and high performance by setting clear expectations and recognizing achievements.
• Work closely with cross-functional department heads to ensure integrated execution of strategies and customer service excellence.

Product/Process Improvement

• Continuously evaluate and optimize logistics to enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and improve customer experience across all locations.
• Identify underperforming areas within the logistics operations and lead strategic initiatives to address root causes and implement corrective actions.
• Monitor and analyse market trends, competitor performance, and customer behavior to proactively adjust strategies and introduce innovations.
• Lead cross-functional improvement projects aimed at streamlining vehicle delivery processes and inventory management.
• Establish KPIs and performance metrics to assess performance of 3PL partners.
• Carry out regular benchmarking reviews with all partners.
• Promote a culture of continuous improvement within the national logistics team by encouraging feedback, innovation, and data-driven decision-making.
• Benchmark global best practices in automotive sales and recommend tailored strategies for implementation within the Saudi Arabian market.

QUALIFICATIONS

Education & Certifications:

• PREFERRED: Bachelor's degree in relevant degree. Fluency in English and Arabic (conversational level)
• MINIMUM: Bachelor's degree

Knowledge & Skill

• In-depth understanding of the automotive industry in Saudi Arabia, including consumer behaviour, market trends, competitive landscape, regulatory environment and media trends.
• Strong leadership and team management skills.
• Excellent problem-solving and decision-making skills.
• Strategic planning and brand management.
• Expertise in both digital and traditional marketing channels.
• Excellent negotiation and vendor management abilities.

Experience

• PREFERRED: 10 years of experience in automotive marketing, with at least 5 years in a senior leadership role.
• MINIMUM: 5 years of progressive marketing experience.