Chief Executive Officer – Automotive

About the role

The client, a UAE‑headquartered automotive group, is seeking a dynamic Chief Executive Officer to lead its multi‑brand dealership, distribution and aftersales operations across the GCC. Reporting directly to the Board, the CEO will own the full P&L and drive the group’s growth agenda.

Key responsibilities

• Own the entire group P&L, including revenue, gross margin, working capital and EBITDA.
• Manage OEM and brand principal relationships, franchise agreements and audits.
• Integrate new‑vehicle, used‑vehicle, fleet, parts, aftersales and F&I functions into a single profit engine.
• Define and execute network strategy – showroom and service footprints, new territories and acquisitions.
• Lead digital retail and CRM adoption to improve lead‑to‑delivery conversion and customer experience scores.
• Oversee inventory ageing, floor‑plan discipline and banking/supplier relationships.
• Build and lead the senior team, fostering succession, Emiratisation and a performance culture.
• Ensure governance, compliance and Board reporting.

Required profile

• 15+ years in automotive, with at least 5 years as CEO, Managing Director or General Manager of a dealership group, distributor or OEM national sales company.
• Proven experience in the GCC or wider MENA market; UAE experience strongly preferred.
• Track record of scaling or turning around a multi‑site automotive P&L of USD 100M+.
• Direct experience managing OEM/brand principal relationships and franchise standards.
• Strong command of aftersales economics.
• Bachelor’s degree required; MBA or finance qualification is an advantage.
• Fluent English; Arabic an advantage.

Required skills

What we offer

• Board‑level mandate with a clear growth agenda and capital backing.
• Competitive tax‑free compensation package: base salary, EBITDA‑linked bonus, company car, family benefits and relocation support where applicable.
• Confidential end‑to‑end recruitment process managed by Business Umbrella.