About the Role
The Vice President – International Business Development is responsible for growing the portfolio and presence in the UAE and international markets. The role identifies and secures new investment opportunities, acquires land for new developments, executes bulk buying and selling deals, builds positive long-term relationships with investors worldwide, and drives overseas sales and strategic partnerships. This position will enhance the brand's standing among high-net-worth and ultra-high-net-worth buyers, family offices, institutional investors, and international brokerage networks.
The VP oversees the investment pipeline and the international revenue plan from market selection and channel strategy to deal closure, in partnership with Sales, Marketing, Finance, and Legal functions, while ensuring compliance with UAE and target-market regulations.
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Key Responsibilities
Investment Opportunities – UAE and International
- Identify, source, and evaluate real estate investment opportunities in the UAE and selected international markets, aligned with the investment strategy and risk appetite.
- Screen opportunities across asset classes and present a qualified pipeline to the CEO / Investment Committee.
- Lead feasibility studies, market analysis, and financial modeling in coordination with Finance.
- Coordinate due diligence with internal teams and external advisers, addressing country, currency, regulatory, and political risk for overseas investments.
- Structure and negotiate investment deals within the approved delegation of authority.
- Monitor the performance of approved investments against the original business case and report to senior management.
Land Acquisition and New Developments
- Source and secure land plots and development sites in the UAE and abroad.
- Conduct land appraisal and highest-and-best-use studies.
- Prepare development business cases comprising concept, product mix, and projected returns for management approval.
- Negotiate land purchase agreements and development agreements.
- Collaborate with the Projects / Development team and other stakeholders on master planning and approvals.
- Ensure land and project acquisitions meet all regulatory requirements.
Bulk Deals – Acquisition and Disposal
- Originate and close bulk purchase and bulk sale transactions domestically and internationally.
- Identify bulk-buy opportunities and prepare deal valuations and pricing structures.
- Coordinate legal procedures and ensure compliance checks on every counterparty.
International Strategy & Market Expansion
- Develop and execute the international business development strategy.
- Identify and evaluate target countries and buyer segments based on market data and trends.
- Prepare international sales targets, budgets, and go-to-market plans for management approval.
- Assess opportunities for representative offices and present business cases to management.
Revenue Generation & Sales Leadership
- Own the international bulk sales pipeline to deliver agreed revenue targets.
- Lead negotiations on high-value and multi-unit transactions within authority limits.
Global Investor Relations
- Build and maintain strong relationships with investors worldwide.
- Develop an investor relations plan and represent the company in various investor engagements.
- Maintain an accurate investor database and act as the senior relationship owner for key clients.
Channel Partnerships & Broker Network
- Recruit and manage a network of real estate agencies and wealth advisers.
- Negotiate and manage agency agreements and performance terms.
Strategic Alliances & Joint Ventures
- Identify and develop strategic partnerships and co-branding opportunities.
- Support due diligence and feasibility discussions for strategic partnerships.
Representation at International and National Events
- Represent the company at international and national events, including exhibitions and forums.
Market Intelligence & Reporting
- Monitor global real estate and provide regular market intelligence to the executive team.
- Deliver monthly and quarterly performance reports covering sales and partner performance.
Team Leadership & Development
- Promote collaboration among international teams and local functions.
Governance, Compliance & Risk
- Ensure all international sales activities comply with relevant laws and regulations.
- Adhere to governance policies, including anti-bribery and conflict-of-interest guidelines.
Qualifications & Experience
- Bachelor’s degree in business administration, Real Estate, Finance, Engineering, Marketing, or related field.
- Minimum 10 years of experience in real estate sales or business development, with at least 5–7 years in a senior leadership role having international responsibility.
- Proven track record in real estate investment and development feasibility.
- Established network of international brokers, private banks, and wealth managers.
- Strong understanding of the Dubai property market and associated regulations.
- Experience in establishing overseas offices or joint ventures.
- Fluency in English; knowledge of additional languages relevant to target markets will be advantageous.
Core Competencies
- Strong investment and financial analysis skills.
- Strategic thinking with the ability to formulate clear growth plans.
- Excellent negotiation and deal structuring capabilities.
- Credible relationship management skills with the ability to work with clients at different levels.
- Leadership and team development expertise.
- Integrity and strong compliance mindset.
- Exceptional communication and presentation skills.
