Director - Growth & Strategic Relationships

About the role

A leading professional services firm is seeking an experienced Director - Growth & Strategic Relationships to drive business growth, strategic client development and market expansion across the UAE and GCC. The role suits a commercially astute leader with a strong network among senior decision-makers and a proven track record of building meaningful client relationships in a professional services environment.

Key responsibilities

• Develop and execute growth initiatives across key market segments in the UAE and GCC.
• Build and strengthen relationships with CEOs, CFOs, business owners, family offices, boards and senior corporate leaders.
• Identify and develop opportunities across Audit, Tax, Advisory, Accounting, Risk, Compliance, HR, Payroll, Technology and ESG services.
• Partner with service line leaders and senior management on strategic account growth and client acquisition.
• Lead high-value pursuits, proposals, presentations and commercial discussions.
• Develop referral channels, strategic partnerships and market expansion opportunities.
• Strengthen pipeline management, account planning, forecasting and CRM discipline.
• Represent the firm at networking events, industry forums and business communities.

Required profile

• 10+ years of experience in accounting, advisory, consulting, legal, corporate banking or professional services.
• Established network of senior business leaders and decision-makers across the UAE.
• Proven success in business development, strategic relationship management and client growth.
• Experience engaging with multinational organisations, family-owned businesses, family offices and government-related entities.
• Strong commercial acumen, executive presence and stakeholder management skills.
• Deep understanding of the UAE business landscape.
• Background in professional services, consulting, advisory, accounting, legal, corporate banking or financial services; other sectors such as telecom, FMCG, retail, real estate brokerage, insurance sales or general trading are unlikely to be a fit.