Managing Director – Automotive

About the role

We are seeking an accomplished automotive leader to take overall responsibility for a large and diversified automotive business representing multiple international brands. This senior executive role includes full responsibility for business strategy, P&L, growth, operational performance, OEM relationships, and portfolio development.

Key responsibilities

• Provide overall strategic and commercial leadership across the automotive business and its portfolio of brands.
• Take full P&L responsibility, driving revenue growth, profitability, market share, and long‑term business performance.
• Lead vehicle sales, aftersales, parts, marketing, customer experience and related operations.
• Build and maintain senior‑level relationships with global automotive manufacturers and OEM partners.
• Develop and execute growth strategies, including new brands, market opportunities, business expansion, and strategic partnerships.
• Drive operational excellence across dealerships, showrooms, service facilities, and supporting functions.
• Lead, develop, and empower senior leadership teams while fostering a performance and accountability culture.
• Monitor market developments, customer trends, competitor activity, and industry changes.
• Ensure strong governance, financial discipline, compliance, and alignment with manufacturer standards.
• Collaborate with executive leadership on long‑term strategy, investment priorities, and future growth.

Required profile

• 20+ years of progressive experience within the automotive industry, including senior executive leadership roles.
• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Engineering, Automotive Management or related field; MBA or equivalent postgraduate qualification is an advantage.
• Proven experience leading a large‑scale, multi‑brand automotive distribution or dealership business.
• Strong track record of full P&L responsibility and delivering sustainable revenue and profitability growth.
• Extensive experience managing senior relationships with international automotive OEMs.
• Deep understanding of vehicle distribution, retail operations, aftersales, parts, customer experience and market dynamics.
• GCC or Middle East automotive leadership experience is highly preferred.
• Demonstrated ability to lead senior teams, manage business transformation, and identify new growth opportunities.