Manager - Sales (Automotive Division -OEMs after OEM)-Dubai (Extensive travel within GCC and oc[...]

OverviewLocation: Dubai. Extensive travel within GCC and occasionally Africa.Position Overview:We are looking for a highly motivated and energetic Manager- Sales reporting to General Manager in driving Accessories sales and business growth within the automotive sector. The Sales Manager will be primarily responsible for identifying new market opportunities, following up with potential and existing clients and ensuring that the sales pipeline is actively managed. This role is ideal for someone who thrives in a ground-running position and is eager to contribute to business development and sales operations.The Sales Manager will drive GCC and Africa sales activities including market research, generating leads, client engagement and ensuring smooth follow-ups.Key ResponsibilitiesSales: develop and execute accessories sales strategies to generate new business opportunities and expand the customer base in the GCC and Africa automotive sector.Market Opportunity Identification: research and identify new market opportunities for automotive products and services. Focus on OEMs and related automotive stakeholders to generate qualified leads.Lead Generation and Prospecting: actively engage in cold-calling, networking and prospecting to find new clients. Maintain a database of leads and convert these into business opportunities.Follow-up: manage and perform regular follow-ups with potential clients ensuring that leads are nurtured and moved through the sales pipeline.Client Engagement: develop initial relationships with clients, understand their requirements and ensure that the DGM is informed of the progress. Coordinating meetings, events and presentations with clients.Client Data Management: maintain accurate records of client communications, sales activities and potential deals in the CRM system ensuring timely updates and follow-up actions.Sales Reporting: prepare regular reports on market prices, trends, competitor analysis and sales pipeline status. Provide updates on sales versus plan, lead conversion and forecasting. Support the yearly budgeting process.Product Promotion Support: execution of marketing and promotional activities including trade shows, presentations and client events to promote automotive products.Cross-Functional Collaboration: work closely with internal teams (marketing, engineering, operations) to ensure smooth delivery of products and services to clients. Ensure that all client requests and feedback are communicated effectively.Customer Support: address customer inquiries and provide timely solutions in collaboration with the DGM and other relevant teams.Travel: extensive travel in GCC and occasionally Africa to meet clients and attend events or trade shows as required.QualificationsEducational Qualifications:Bachelors degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field (preferred).Experience:5-7 years of experience in accessories and/or automotive parts sales, business development. Experience preferably from multi-national OEM / Tier1.Familiarity with the automotive industry and OEM relationships is a plus.Prior experience in sales coordination and client follow-ups in a B2B environment.Sales pipelines & forecasting management and lead generation activities.Skills & Competencies:Sales: Strong understanding of the sales process from lead generation to closing deals. Ability to assist in identifying new opportunities and following up with clients.Communication Skills: Strong written and verbal communication skills. Ability to interact with clients and internal teams effectively.Organization: Excellent organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple tasks, prioritize work and meet deadlines.Problem-Solving: Ability to address client queries and issues with speed and professionalism, ensuring satisfaction.Team Player: Collaborative, adaptable and comfortable working in a team-oriented environment under the guidance of the GM.Proactive Attitude: Ability to work autonomously, take initiative and drive results without constant supervision.Attention to Detail: Ability to maintain accurate records, manage client data and ensure seamless follow-up.Preferred QualificationsAutomotive Industry Knowledge: Knowledge of the automotive sector, particularly in sales and business development with OEMs is highly beneficial.Geographical Knowledge: Familiarity with key automotive OEM and importers in GCC and Africa, as well as an understanding of regional market dynamics.CRM Software Proficiency: Experience with CRM software is a nice to have (e.g. Salesforce, HubSpot) to track sales activities and client interactions.Key CompetenciesProactive Sales Support: Ability to work in a fast-paced environment, staying focused on the needs of the sales team and driving forward business development efforts.Client Relationship Building: Building strong working relationships with potential and existing clients to support the sales team and ensure long-term partnerships.Multitasking & Time Management: Ability to prior