Business Development Manager

About the role

Food People has partnered with a leading manufacturing company in Dubai, UAE, to hire a Business Development Manager focused on driving the growth of the industrial starch business across the GCC and wider international markets. This role requires a commercially minded individual who can build strong customer relationships and identify growth opportunities in high-demand industrial applications

Key Responsibilities

• Identify and develop new business opportunities for industrial starch across key sectors, including paper & packaging, adhesives, textiles, construction, and other industrial applications
• Build and execute a targeted business development strategy to expand market share and deliver revenue growth across the GCC
• Engage with key decision-makers in technical and procurement teams to understand customer needs and provide tailored product solutions
• Work closely with technical and production teams to support product trials, ensure application compatibility, and provide ongoing technical assistance
• Establish and maintain strong relationships with distributors, manufacturers, and end-users, creating long-term value for both parties
• Monitor industry trends, competitor activity, and market shifts to inform commercial planning and product positioning
• Prepare and deliver sales forecasts, budgets, and performance reports, ensuring alignment with the company’s growth targets
• Mitigate commercial risks through careful contract negotiation, pricing strategy, and credit management practices
• Represent the company at industry events, exhibitions, and technical forums to build brand recognition and promote capabilities

Key Ingredients

• Minimum of 7 years of experience in B2B industrial sales, preferably within the starch or chemical raw materials industries
• Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Engineering, Business, or a related field. A master’s degree is a plus
• Strong understanding of industrial applications of starch and related technical processes
• Proven track record in business development, account management, and revenue growth in the GCC
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and relationship management skills
• Ability to work independently and cross-functionally in a fast-paced, technical sales environment

*Please note ONLY candidates with relevant industrial starch or specialty ingredients experience will be contacted to discuss the position in more detail.