Business Development Director

A bit about usWe’re Hyve — organiser of the world’s fastest-growing and most forward-thinking B2B events. As the chosen event partner to many of the world’s leading companies, our platforms play a critical role in their strategies – helping them enter new markets, accelerate growth and connect with the people who matter most.Our portfolio features some of the world’s leading events in sectors like ecommerce, healthcare, edtech, and fintech. We’re growing fast with an entrepreneurial culture that empowers big ideas and quick action, plus an ambitious acquisition strategy bringing exciting new events into our mix.Alongside our market‑leading events, we’re building tech and data‑driven products that supercharge connections – from one‑to‑one meeting programs and curated table talks to year‑round engagement platforms.Whatever your role, you’ll join a global team redefining how industries connect, collaborate, and grow – working with some of the most talented people in the business.Think that sounds good? Wait until our talent acquisition team tells you about the culture.A bit about youFirst things first: whatever your background, beliefs or ambitions, there’s a culture of belonging at Hyve — and everyone is welcome. The question isn’t where you’ve come from, but where you want to go.You’ll thrive here if you’re curious, collaborative and not afraid to challenge convention. We look for people who take pride in what they do, who are excited by change and always moving forward. The kind of people who stay open, keep learning, and look for better ways to make an impact.Our shared behaviours guide how we work: we dare to do things differently, own our work, embrace collaboration, stay true to ourselves and others, and remember that optimism wins.If that sounds like you, you’ll fit right in.About ShoptalkShoptalk is known world‑wide as the eCommerce industry’s very best event. Customers flock to our events to hear from the greatest minds, immerse themselves in an unmissable atmosphere, attend mind‑blowing parties, and open themselves up to a whole world of game‑changing opportunities. Together, we’re creating the future of retail.About the roleFollowing the successful launch of Shoptalk Luxe in January 2026, the event is now entering its next phase of growth. We are seeking an experienced Business Development Director to drive expansion across the Middle East, building on the momentum of the launch event, which brought together 2,000+ senior decision‑makers across the global luxury and premium retail ecosystem.To accelerate the next stage of growth, we are hiring a regionally based commercial lead to drive sponsorship revenue, develop strategic partnerships, and significantly expand Shoptalk Luxe’s footprint across the GCC and wider Middle East.This is an individual contributor role responsible for establishing a strong on‑the‑ground commercial presence in the region, unlocking new partnerships, accelerating deal flow, and converting the growing awareness of Shoptalk Luxe into high‑value sponsorships and long‑term strategic relationships.As part of your job, you’ll be:Regional GrowthDrive the commercial expansion of Shoptalk Luxe across the GCC and wider Middle EastIdentify and secure high‑value regional sponsors and partnersBuild and manage a pipeline of new business opportunitiesRepresent the brand in the region constantly seeking new growth opportunitiesNew Business DevelopmentMeet and exceed sales targetsIndependently identify, prospect and close new sponsorship partnershipsEstablish relationships with C‑suite and senior decision‑makers with the retail tech spaceConvert regional awareness of Shoptalk Luxe into long‑term commercial relationshipsDevelop creative partnership opportunities tailored to regional clientslRespond to customer inquiries quickly and prioritise activities with customers at different stages in the sales processUtilise our CRM to track and report account activity accurately and in a timely mannerBe obsessive about customer experience from prospect through event executionWork collaboratively with other sales team members and other departmentsSkills & Experiences5+ years of consultative sales experience, ideally within tech events in the Middle EastStrong network and knowledge of retail technology suppliers within the Middle EastProven ability to generate and close large sponsorship or partnership dealsExperience selling retail technology solutions or sponsorship‑based event partnershipsTrack record of negotiating and closing high‑value commercial dealsDemonstrated ability to meet and exceed monthly, quarterly and annual revenue targetsStrong experience managing sales pipelines and forecasting revenueSkilled at account mapping and developing new business through strategic relationship buildingHighly organised and adaptable, with the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast‑paced environmentCommercially driven, entrepreneurial mindset with the ability to thrive in a high‑growth environmentR