Director - International Business Development

AD Ports Group; Abu Dhabi; On-site; AED 180,000 - 250,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading port and logistics operator in Abu Dhabi is seeking a strategic Director – International Business Development to spearhead its global growth initiatives. This pivotal role involves identifying new business opportunities, negotiating with key stakeholders, and implementing comprehensive business strategies. The ideal candidate has over 15 years of experience in the ports and logistics industry, showcasing a strong commercial acumen and strategic mindset. Join us to shape major international projects and drive the company’s future growth.

Benefits

Collaborative work environment

Opportunities for international travel

Influence strategic decisions

Qualifications

• A minimum of 15 years of experience in a similar role.
• Proven experience in Ports, Maritime or logistics industry background.
• Fluency in English; knowledge of additional languages is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Lead high-level negotiations with partners, investors, and government authorities.
• Develop and implement a business development strategy.
• Conduct market research to identify new business opportunities.

Skills

Problem-solving

Adaptability

Self-efficacy

Agile

Prioritization and multi-tasking

Education

Bachelor's degree in Business Administration or related field

Master's degree preferred

Tools

Project management certification

Logistics certification

Job description

We are seeking a visionary and strategic Director – International Business Development to lead our global growth initiatives and expand our footprint across international markets.

If you’re a senior commercial leader with a strong network in the ports, maritime, and logistics industry — this could be your next big move.

This role plays a pivotal part in identifying new commercial opportunities, developing strategic business cases, and leading high‑level negotiations with partners, investors, and government authorities.

You will be at the forefront of driving growth, strengthening our global footprint, and shaping the future of our international portfolio.

About the International Office

Delivering global ambitions of the UAE’s leadership, the ADPG senior management envisioned the creation of international offices. The International Office is a business unit of AD Ports Group (ADPG) to accelerate its expansion globally, supporting the growth synergy and focuses on developing projects that support the five pillars of ADPG, the 5 business clusters namely Ports, Maritime, Logistics, Digital and ECFZ. Beginning with exploring growth opportunities, ensuring due diligence, and developing project opportunities that triggers growth patterns for all clusters and thus ensuring a balanced growth structure for the whole company and the wider economy of this country. International Office currently spreads in 3 main geographical regions – Africa, Middle East, and Central Asia. ADPG now has presence in almost 40 plus countries. Some well‑established operations, some developing projects and some markets are just opening. International Office (IO) acts as the Central bolt connecting these 5 clusters, bringing them together for projects that benefit the overall growth of trade and industry in these regions.

JOB PURPOSE

Responsible for identifying and developing new business opportunities, implementing strategic plans, and fostering strong relationships with key stakeholders (internal and external).

Responsibilities

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Core Responsibilities

• Develop and implement a comprehensive business development strategy that aligns with AD Ports Group overall objectives and supports the Company’s growth
• Develop and oversee a full business case and present the same to the internal stakeholders, such investment committee and board.
• Lead the negotiation process with clients, partners, and government authorities to secure favorable terms and conditions for the company.
• Conduct market research and analysis to identify new business opportunities, potential clients, partners, and markets within the port and logistics industry.
• Establish and maintain strategic partnerships that create synergies, enhance the company’s offerings, and support business growth.
• Monitor and report on the effectiveness of business development initiatives and processes, making recommendations for improvement where necessary.
• Participate in representing the company at industry events, conferences, and meetings, promoting the company’s brand and expertise's.
• Represent and evaluate potential risks associated with international business expansion and develop risk mitigation strategies including financial, operational, regulatory.
• Monitor competitor activities, market trends, and industry developments to inform strategic decision‑making and maintain the company's competitive edge.

People Management Responsibilities

• Lead, inspire, and motivate the business development teams and streams, setting clear expectations, objectives, and targets.
• Monitor and evaluate the performance of the business development team, setting KPIs, and holding team members accountable for achieving their goals. Address performance issues promptly and constructively.
• Foster a collaborative and inclusive work environment, encouraging open communication and teamwork across departments and functional areas.

Strategic Responsibilities

• Contribute to the company's strategic planning process, providing insights, analysis, and recommendations related to business development initiatives and market opportunities.
• Monitor and report on the effectiveness of business development initiatives, using data and analytics to measure success, identify areas for improvement, and inform future strategies.

KNOWLEDGE & SKILLS

Educational and Technical Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, International Business, Economics or a related field.
• Master's degree preferred.
• Professional certification or diploma in project management, supply chain management, or logistics are considered an asset.
• Fluency in English; knowledge of additional languages is a plus.

Required Skills

• A minimum of 15 years of experience in a similar role.
• Proven experiences in Ports, Maritime or logistics industry background.
• Problem‑solving: the ability to identify and analyze problems, generate and evaluate potential solutions, and take action to address them.
• Adaptability: The ability to be flexible and adaptable in the face of changing circumstances, and to adjust one's plans and strategies as needed.
• Self‑efficacy: The belief in one's ability to succeed and achieve goals, even in the face of challenges or setbacks.
• Agile: The flexibility and the ability to adapt quickly to changing circumstances, requirements, and priorities.
• Prioritization and multi‑tasking: Balance multiple priorities, projects, and tasks simultaneously.

Work Location: Abu Dhabi, UAE

Why Join Us?

You’ll shape major international growth projects, influence strategic decisions, and help drive the future of our global business landscape — all within a forward‑thinking, collaborative environment.

Interested? Let's Connect

If you’re a strategic thinker with a passion for international growth and deep expertise in the maritime/logistics ecosystem, we’d love to hear from you.

Let’s connect great talent with great opportunities!

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