Associate Director, Business Development

Role Overview

We are seeking a motivated and results-driven Associate Director of Business Development for Kaplan Professional Middle East, focusing on expanding our B2B outreach within the Eastern Region of Saudi Arabia and Bahrain. This pivotal leadership role centers on acquiring new corporate clients and growing existing accounts across Kaplan's diverse portfolio of professional development and training programs, including Finance, Business Skills, Leadership, Behavioral Development, Digital Transformation, and Professional Qualifications.

Primary Responsibilities

• Drive new client acquisition and business expansion initiatives across Kaplan Professional's offerings within the MENA region, primarily targeting the Eastern Region of KSA and Bahrain.
• Design and implement comprehensive sales strategies aimed at surpassing substantial revenue goals for the entire suite of training products.
• Manage the complete sales lifecycle from lead generation and qualification through to proposal crafting, negotiation, and securing complex B2B training agreements.
• Identify growth prospects not only within existing training domains but also in adjacent market areas.
• Utilize an extensive personal network of senior HR, Learning & Development, and C-suite leaders within corporate and governmental sectors to accelerate business development efforts.
• Maintain and cultivate strong, trust-based relationships with key stakeholders to deeply understand and cater to their evolving needs.
• Collaborate cross-functionally with Product, Marketing, and Delivery teams to tailor and position training solutions aligned with client requirements.
• Continuously benchmark competitors, pricing, and product developments to sharpen Kaplan’s market strategy.
• Support sales and marketing teams by developing persuasive, customized proposals and actively engaging in important client meetings.
• Remain abreast of industry developments and advances in learning technologies to keep Kaplan competitive in the L&D space.

Qualifications and Experience

• At least 10 years of advancing experience in business development, with a minimum of 5 years focusing on B2B sales within the Learning and Development or Corporate Training sectors in Saudi Arabia.
• Proven success in achieving and exceeding significant sales targets by promoting a wide range of professional training solutions.
• Established track record leveraging an existing robust network to secure prominent B2B contracts across MENA.
• Fluency in Arabic and English with outstanding communication skills in both languages.
• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Marketing, or relevant discipline; Master’s degree preferred.
• Strong skills in project management coupled with an analytical, data-driven approach.

Desired Attributes

• Demonstrates strategic thinking and commercial savvy with a strong focus on results.
• Exhibits leadership capabilities to motivate and influence colleagues and teamwork positively.
• Embraces a collaborative spirit with a proactive and constructive attitude.
• Possesses high emotional intelligence with self-awareness in managing critical client relationships.
• Willingness to travel internationally throughout the MENA region as required to meet business objectives.

Benefits

• Attractive salary package paired with performance-based incentives rewarding sales achievements.
• Inclusive and comprehensive benefits plan.
• Opportunities for professional growth and educational advancement.
• Supportive, innovative, and inclusive workplace environment promoting personal and career development.