ABOUT DEPARTER - THE KNOW-WHO PEOPLE

Departer is a leading German Executive Search firm with over 20 years of experience in global leadership recruitment. We specialize in placing executives in medium-sized enterprises and private equity portfolio firms across DACH, MEAI, ASIA, and ANZ regions. With a deep understanding of the DACH economy, we facilitate successful placements within global management teams across corporate headquarters and entities abroad.

Our client is a global leader in logistics and supply chain management, renowned for providing tailor-made transport and logistics solutions. With a strong emphasis on operational excellence, efficiency, and exceptional customer service, the company serves diverse industries worldwide. As Operations Manager (m/f/d) you will oversee technical operations, client relationship management, personnel leadership, and customs clearance processes, ensuring seamless execution and compliance with international standards. 

Your duties and responsibilities will include:

• Manage and oversee customs clearance processes, ensuring compliance with international regulations and maintaining accurate documentation
• Act as the primary point of contact for customs authorities, addressing queries and efficiently resolving potential obstacles or delays
• Develop and maintain strong relationships with key clients, providing high-level support and ensuring customer satisfaction
• Prepare quotations, manage project execution, and negotiate contracts to achieve optimal outcomes and profitability
• Plan, control, and coordinate the entire order processing cycle, ensuring smooth execution and operational efficiency
• Implement and monitor cost-saving strategies with suppliers to maximize financial performance
• Oversee budget planning and monitoring, performing detailed target-actual analyses and preparing comprehensive performance reports
• Handle customer complaints with a focus on root cause analysis and implementing corrective measures for continuous improvement
• Provide hands-on support to the team in critical situations and ensure successful resolution of challenging tasks
• Collaborate with the Branch Manager on risk assessments, compliance initiatives, and strategic planning for operational improvements

To be successful in this role you should have the following skills and experiences:

• Bachelor’s degree in Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, or a related field
• A minimum of 5 years of experience in logistics or supply chain management, including at least 2 years in a managerial or leadership role
• Hands-on experience managing complex logistics operations, including customs clearances
• Proficiency in logistics software and systems
• In-depth knowledge of customs regulations and international trade compliance
• Strong leadership abilities to manage and inspire a diverse team
• Effective communication and negotiation skills, with fluency in English
• A hands-on mindset with the flexibility to adapt to dynamic operational challenges
• High level of independence and a proactive approach to problem-solving
• Strong analytical and organizational skills to oversee multifaceted responsibilities

About Departer – The German Headhunter:

ABOUT DEPARTER - THE KNOW-WHO PEOPLE

Departer is a leading German Executive Search firm with over 20 years of experience in global leadership recruitment. We specialize in placing executives in medium-sized enterprises and private equity portfolio firms across DACH, MEAI, ASIA, and ANZ regions. With a deep understanding of the DACH economy, we facilitate successful placements within global management teams across corporate headquarters and entities abroad.

Our client is a prominent player in the infrastructure and construction industry, recognized for delivering top-tier solutions for large-scale projects across the Middle East. Committed to driving growth through strategic partnerships and innovative solutions, our client maintains a strong foothold in the Saudi Arabian market, focusing on mega projects and high-value contracts with key government entities and large corporations. As they expand their operations in Saudi Arabia, we are seeking an experienced and ambitious Sr. Key Account Manager (m/f/d) to lead and develop sales with large, strategic accounts in the Kingdom, contributing significantly to the company’s success in this dynamic region.

Your duties and responsibilities will include:

• Develop and expand sales with large, strategic accounts, focusing on mega infrastructure projects and ensuring long-term, high-value contracts with government and semi-government entities
• Establish and nurture strong relationships with decision-makers and key stakeholders in large corporations and government bodies, securing a competitive position in significant projects
• Identify new opportunities within the infrastructure sector, engaging with large clients and forming partnerships to enhance project pipeline and market share
• Lead negotiations on high-value deals, overseeing contract terms and execution in alignment with the company’s strategic objectives and in close collaboration with local Saudi teams
• Coordinate closely with distributors to develop competitive pricing structures and ensure material availability for upcoming large-scale demands
• Collaborate with project managers, end-user decision-makers, and key influencers to position company solutions within local tenders and projects, ensuring specifications are met
• Support marketing initiatives by representing the company at trade shows, industry events, and other key networking opportunities
• Ensure compliance with internal policies and local regulations in all business activities, demonstrating strong adherence to corporate and regional standards
• Maintain and manage an up-to-date sales pipeline in Salesforce for transparent forecasting and effective account management
• Identify and assist in onboarding potential partners and support the growth of junior staff, fostering a sustainable, scalable sales organization
• Frequent travel across Saudi Arabia to meet clients, partners, and stakeholders, ensuring strong presence and relationship-building on the ground

To be successful in this role you should have the following skills and experiences:

• Degree in Business Administration, Engineering, or a related field, with a solid foundation in sales, business development, or account management
• Proven track record of managing large accounts within the infrastructure or construction sector, with a specific focus on mega projects in the Middle East
• Strong understanding of the Saudi market and extensive experience working with government entities and semi-government organizations, particularly in large-scale infrastructure projects
• Skilled in negotiation and client relationship management, with the ability to secure high-value contracts and manage complex deals
• Proficiency in project sales, including engagement with end-users, decision-makers, and industry influencers to support project specifications
• Experience in collaborating with distributors and internal departments to meet project demands and align with client expectations
• Familiarity with CRM systems such as Salesforce for pipeline management and forecasting
• Fluent in Arabic and English, both spoken and written, with a clear and structured communication style
• Ability and willingness to travel extensively within Saudi Arabia to maintain client relationships and support project execution