BD Director, Middle East
Abu Dhabi Product / Full-time / On-site Established in 2017, WeRide (NASDAQ: WRD) is a leading global autonomous driving technology company with operations in over 30 cities across 7 countries. WeRide holds driverless permits in China, the UAE, Singapore, and the US, and focuses on developing safe and accessible autonomous driving solutions. The company offers a range of autonomous vehicles and driver - assistance systems, partnering with global OEMs and Tier1 suppliers.
We are seeking a dynamic Business Development, Senior Manager/Director to drive our expansion efforts in the Middle East, with a primary focus on Abu Dhabi, Dubai in the UAE, Qatar, and other neighboring countries. The ideal candidate will have a profound understanding of the local market, outstanding relationship - building capabilities, and a proven track record in client acquisition.
Key Responsibilities
+ Collaborate closely with the International Business Development Director to formulate and execute strategic plans for penetrating the Middle - East market, with a strong emphasis on the UAE and Qatar.
+ Cultivate and maintain robust relationships with key stakeholders, such as local government transportation departments, energy - related enterprises, and potential customers in the region. Given the significant role of the energy sector in the Middle East, understanding the intersection between autonomous driving and energy - related applications is crucial.
+ Conduct comprehensive market research to gain insights into local trends, regulatory frameworks, competition, and the specific needs of customers in the Middle - East autonomous driving domain. This includes understanding the unique urban planning, traffic patterns, and technological acceptance levels in the region.
+ Devise and carry out strategic business plans to meet sales targets and drive substantial business growth in the Middle East.
+ Work in tandem with cross - functional teams, including R&D, product, and operations, to adapt products and services to meet the distinct requirements of the Middle - East market. This may involve customizing features based on local climate conditions, infrastructure, and cultural preferences.
+ Prepare and present compelling presentations and proposals to prospective clients, effectively communicating the value and advantages of WeRide's autonomous driving solutions in the context of the Middle - East market.
Qualifications
+ Bachelor's degree in Business/Engineering or a related field (preferred but not mandatory).
+ A minimum of 5 years of experience in business development, sales, or a related role, preferably in the autonomous vehicle development or technology sectors. Experience in the Middle - East market or with industries relevant to the region, such as the energy or logistics sectors, is highly advantageous.
+ In - depth familiarity with the markets of Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Qatar, and other Middle - East countries, with a demonstrated track record of successful client development in these areas.
+ Fluency in English; proficiency in Arabic is a strong plus. Multilingual skills, especially in languages commonly spoken in the Middle East, can significantly enhance the candidate's effectiveness.
+ Exceptional communication and negotiation skills, essential for engaging with diverse business cultures in the region.
+ The ability to thrive in a fast - paced, cross - functional international environment.
+ Frequent travel within the Middle East is required.
