Business Development Manager - UAE
Converra Consulting | Dubai
We are seeking an experienced Business Development Manager to lead client acquisition and relationship management for Converra's UAE operations. This is a senior commercial role requiring deep market knowledge of the UAE construction and infrastructure sector, an established professional network, and the credibility to represent a specialist advisory firm at the highest levels. The role is Dubai-based and reports directly to firm leadership.
Key Responsibilities
- Drive business development and revenue growth across Converra's full service portfolio in UAE - Advisory, BIM, Consulting (PMC/PMO, QS, Contract Management, Risk Management, Sustainability, Claims) and Forensic Services
- Identify, pursue and convert opportunities with main contractors, developers, government authorities, legal firms and financial institutions active in UAE's construction and infrastructure market
- Build and maintain senior-level relationships with key decision-makers across UAE Vision 2031 programmes, Dubai and Abu Dhabi government entities, giga-projects and conventional construction sectors
- Develop and execute a structured go-to-market strategy for UAE, including pipeline management, proposal coordination and client engagement plans
- Represent Converra at industry events, forums and professional networks in the UAE
- Work closely with technical and delivery teams to scope engagements, structure proposals, and support commercial negotiations
- Provide market intelligence on competitor positioning, procurement trends and emerging opportunities across the Saudi market
- Support the firm's broader GCC growth strategy with cross-border client development where relevant
Experience
- 10–12 years of business development, client relations or commercial leadership experience in the construction, infrastructure or professional services sector in UAE
- Demonstrable track record of winning and growing mandates with contractors, developers or government bodies in UAE
- Existing network across We the UAE 2031-linked programmes, Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan and Abu Dhabi Economic Vision 2030 initiatives, major developments and giga-projects (e.g. Etihad Rail, Al Maktoum International Airport, Saadiyat Island, Masdar City, Expo City Dubai), and major infrastructure clients strongly preferred
Language
- Fluent Arabic (native or professional proficiency) - essential
- Professional-level English - essential
Education
- Degree in Engineering, Quantity Surveying, Construction Management, Business or a related discipline
- Professional accreditation (MRICS, PMP, or equivalent) is advantageous
Skills & Attributes
- Deep understanding of the UAE construction market structure, procurement ecosystem and regulatory environment
- Ability to articulate complex technical and advisory services in commercial terms to senior client stakeholders
- Self-starter with a consultative, relationship-first approach to business development
- Strong proposal writing, presentation and negotiation skills
- Familiarity with FIDIC contract forms and construction advisory services is a significant advantage
What Converra Offers
- A senior, autonomous role with direct visibility to firm leadership
- Competitive base salary and performance-linked incentive structure
- An opportunity to shape and grow Converra's UAE platform at a pivotal moment in the country’s infrastructure expansion
