Country Manager

Position Overview

We are seeking a dynamic and experienced Country Manager to lead our operations in Dammam, Saudi Arabia, for the American Bureau of Shipping (ABS). In this pivotal role, you will be responsible for overseeing all business activities, driving growth, and ensuring compliance with local and international standards. The ideal candidate will possess strong leadership skills, a deep understanding of the maritime and offshore industries, and the ability to foster strategic partnerships within the region.

Key Responsibilities

• Strategic Leadership: Develop and implement business strategies to enhance market presence, profitability, and customer satisfaction in the Dammam region. Align operational goals with ABS’s global objectives while adapting to local market dynamics.
• Operational Excellence: Oversee day-to-day operations, ensuring efficient resource allocation, adherence to regulatory requirements, and maintenance of high-quality service delivery. Monitor performance metrics and implement continuous improvement initiatives.
• Team Management: Lead, mentor, and motivate a high-performing team of professionals, fostering a culture of collaboration, innovation, and accountability. Recruit, train, and develop talent to build a robust local workforce.
• Stakeholder Engagement: Cultivate and maintain strong relationships with key stakeholders, including government agencies, industry partners, clients, and regulatory bodies. Represent ABS at industry events, conferences, and forums to enhance brand visibility and credibility.
• Compliance and Risk Management: Ensure full compliance with local laws, international maritime regulations, and ABS policies. Identify and mitigate risks to protect the company’s reputation and financial interests.
• Financial Performance: Drive revenue growth and profitability by identifying new business opportunities, optimizing cost structures, and managing budgets effectively. Provide regular financial reports and insights to senior leadership.
• Market Expansion: Analyze market trends, competitive landscapes, and customer needs to identify opportunities for expansion. Develop tailored solutions to meet the evolving demands of the maritime and offshore sectors in the region.

Qualifications and Experience

To excel in this role, candidates must meet the following criteria:

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Business Administration, Maritime Studies, or a related field. An advanced degree or professional certification (e.g., MBA, PMP) is a plus.
• Experience: Minimum of 10 years of progressive leadership experience in the maritime, offshore, or related industries, with at least 5 years in a managerial or executive role. Prior experience in a country management or regional leadership position is highly desirable.
• Industry Knowledge: In-depth understanding of maritime regulations, classification societies, and industry best practices. Familiarity with the Middle Eastern market, particularly Saudi Arabia, is advantageous.
• Leadership Skills: Proven ability to lead cross-functional teams, drive organizational change, and inspire high performance. Strong decision-making, negotiation, and communication skills are essential.
• Language Proficiency: Fluency in English is required; proficiency in Arabic is a significant advantage.
• Technical Skills: Proficiency in business management software, financial analysis tools, and industry-specific platforms. Familiarity with digital transformation initiatives in the maritime sector is beneficial.

Why Join ABS?

As a global leader in maritime and offshore classification, ABS offers a rewarding career in an industry at the forefront of innovation and sustainability. You will have the opportunity to shape the future of maritime safety, environmental stewardship, and technological advancement while working alongside industry experts. ABS is committed to diversity, inclusion, and professional development, providing employees with the tools and support to thrive in a dynamic and challenging environment.

If you are a visionary leader with a passion for the maritime industry and a drive to make a lasting impact, we invite you to apply for this exciting opportunity in Dammam.