Job Purpose
To drive the strategic development, implementation, and growth of the Freezone Development function, supporting revenue growth at a UAE-based International Airport. The role includes identifying opportunities, mitigating risks, fostering stakeholder relationships, and enhancing profitability through targeted business development interventions. The Business Development Manager will drive and all Business Development activities – in alignment with the Airport Operator’s strategic objective of attaining sustainable revenue growth from within Freezone property portfolio.
Dimensions
The role encompasses oversight of strategic, operational, and marketing plans for the Freezone Development function within a UAE-based International Airport. It involves business development activities, key account management, and stakeholder engagement with freight operators, maintenance providers, logistics organizations, manufacturing entities and regulatory authorities. This contributes to maximizing profitability and operational effectiveness at and supporting the Airports’ strategic goals.
Principal Accountabilities
Key Engagement Tasks
• Develop and implement strategic, operational, and marketing plans for Freezone Development
• Identify opportunities and risks, implementing mitigation strategies to ensure alignment with the Airports' objectives.
• Engage with key governmental stakeholders to enhance collaboration and performance.
Practice Development Activities
• Provide expert advice and support in formulating and achieving functional goals and objectives to optimize performance.
• Develop robust business cases for infrastructure development projects, addressing market demand and supporting growth.
• Review and refine operational processes to retain existing customers and attract new business opportunities.
Business Development Activities
• Conduct business development and manage key accounts for commercial and Freezone development activities.
• Build strong partnerships with freight operators, maintenance providers, and logistics organizations (and other potential freezone clients) to maximize profitability.
• Identify and recommend alternate revenue streams through airport-oriented business activities.
Other Activities
• Conduct market research and business analysis to inform strategy and decision-making.
• Manage marketing, public relations, promotional events, and economic development activities to enhance visibility and engagement.
• Establish relationships with local and international stakeholders, fostering business growth and collaboration.
• Prepare status reports, presentations, and other documentation for internal and external audiences.
Skills
Education
• Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Aviation Management, Marketing, or a related field.
• Degree or professional certifications (e.g., MBA, PMP) preferred.
Work Experience
• Minimum 9 years of experience in aviation management, business development, or related fields, with a focus on commercial and Freezone development.
• Proven success in driving strategic initiatives and achieving business growth in a similar capacity.
Knowledge Areas
• Comprehensive knowledge of aviation operations, Freezone development, and regulatory frameworks.
• Expertise in strategic planning, risk management, and infrastructure development.
Technical Skills
• Proficiency in market research, business analysis, and strong grasp of financial concepts
• Strong stakeholder engagement and communication skills, with experience managing diverse relationships.
• Competence in project management, marketing tools, and analytical reporting systems.
• Relationship Building: Skilled at cultivating and nurturing strong, lasting relationships with key clients, partners, and stakeholders, facilitating collaboration and identifying new business opportunities.
• Skilled at mastering the entire sales process, spanning from lead identification and prospecting to deal negotiation and closure, consistently outperforming sales targets and driving organizational advancement.