Business Development Manager – Marketing & Advertising Agency

Job description / Role

A fast-growing international marketing and advertising agency with headquarters in the United States and regional teams in Asia and the Middle East is expanding into the UAE and GCC market. The company partners with clients across aviation, banking, real estate, and government sectors to deliver creative, strategic, and high-impact marketing solutions.

As part of its regional expansion, we are seeking a Business Development Manager who can take ownership of building and driving the company’s growth in the UAE — from the ground up.

About the Role

This is not a traditional business development job — it’s an opportunity for someone who enjoys creating order out of chaos. The ideal candidate will thrive in a start-up environment, where processes are still being built and initiative is highly valued.

You will represent the company in the UAE, building client relationships, securing new projects, managing communication across international teams, and helping establish the operational foundation of the business.

This role requires someone who can think strategically, act independently, and work collaboratively with the global leadership and creative teams based in the US and Asia.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and execute a business growth plan for the UAE and GCC markets.
• Build and maintain relationships with key clients, agencies, and government entities.
• Create structure and process in how the company handles client briefings, project requests, and proposal development.
• Collaborate with the Asia team on preparing BD and tender materials, ensuring alignment with local requirements.
• Handle documentation, licensing, and registration processes required to conduct business in the UAE.
• Serve as the main link between the UAE market and international teams, providing cultural and business guidance.
• Support client onboarding, proposal submissions, and follow-ups to ensure smooth project delivery.
• Be hands-on in all stages of the business cycle — from prospecting and pitching to negotiation and project execution.

To be considered for the role, you need to meet the following criteria:

• 5–10 years of experience in business development, client servicing, or marketing within advertising, media, or creative industries.
• Proven ability to generate new business, manage relationships, and deliver measurable results.
• Highly organized, detail-oriented, and emotionally intelligent — able to stay calm, focused, and persistent in achieving goals.
• A self-starter who can work independently without constant direction and is comfortable creating new processes from scratch.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to influence and get things done through collaboration.
• Flexible, adaptable, and culturally sensitive when working with international teams.
• Strong understanding of UAE business practices, government procedures, and client expectations.
• Fluency in English is required; Arabic is a strong advantage.

Why This Opportunity Stands Out

• Be part of an exciting global expansion — helping to shape the company’s success story in the UAE.
• Work directly with international leadership teams in the US and Asia.
• Play a key role in building structure and strategy for a fast-evolving organization.
• A dynamic and entrepreneurial work environment with real ownership, creativity, and growth potential.

• Location: Dubai, United Arab Emirates
• Industry: Marketing, Advertising, Media & Communications

Black Pearl does not charge any fees to candidates. Our services to job seekers are completely free of charge.

About the Company

About Us Helping professionals grow. Supporting businesses thrive.

Black Pearl is a HR consultancy and recruitment firm based in the UAE. We connect skilled professionals with leading organizations across the Gulf region, offering a personalized and thoughtful approach to hiring.

Our team specializes in recruiting for roles across key industries, including but not limited to: - Healthcare and Life Sciences - Engineering and Construction - Technology and Digital - Finance and Accounting - Hospitality and Retail - Government and Emiratization

Whether you’re searching for your next opportunity or looking to hire, we work closely with you to understand your goals and find the right fit.