Associate Partner - Business Development

About the Role
The company is a Riyadh-based boutique executive search and HR advisory firm serving Saudi and GCC clients with a focus on Vision 2030-aligned leadership hiring. This role is designed for someone who desires to build a firm rather than simply join one. You will work directly with the Founder & Managing Partner to originate and close search and advisory mandates, with a clear path to Partnership and profit share dependent on the revenue you generate. Compensation starts modestly but scales with what you originate. If you require a market-rate base salary before proving your capabilities, this role may not be suitable for you.

What You’ll Own

• Originate new client relationships with CEOs, CHROs, boards, and NRC chairs across KSA/GCC
• Convert conversations into retained search and advisory mandates (including proposals, pricing, and negotiation)
• Co-lead delivery on mandates you win involving client management, shortlist presentation, and offer stage
• Build sector or functional practice ownership (e.g., logistics, fintech, PIF portfolio, boards)
• Represent the firm at industry events and on LinkedIn; assist in growing the brand alongside the founder
• Help shape firm operations, tooling, and processes as the firm scales

What We’re Looking For

• 8–15 years of experience in executive search, HR consulting, professional services BD, or a senior corporate HR/talent role with a strong external network
• A real, warm network of decision-makers in Saudi Arabia — demonstrable, not aspirational
• Proven track record of selling retained or advisory services, or hiring senior leaders multiple times through agencies with a clear understanding of excellence
• An entrepreneurial risk appetite and readiness to accept a modest fixed pay during the initial ramp-up period in exchange for future upside
• Integrity and discretion — you will manage confidential C-suite mandates from day one
• Fluent in Arabic and English; Saudi nationals or long-tenured GCC residents are strongly preferred

How the Deal Works

• Modest base salary during the ramp-up phase
• Commission on fee revenue you originate, paid upon client collection
• Clear, written milestones leading to Partner title and profit share (based on revenue thresholds rather than tenure)
• Full transparency on firm economics from day one