Growth & Market Expansion Lead
Location: Dubai, UAE
About Us
Athena Executive Search & Consulting is a boutique retained search firm specializing in Executive Search, Board Advisory, and Talent Management. We partner with leading organizations to identify transformational leaders who create long-term impact and growth. With a strong commitment to excellence, discretion, and results, we combine global best practices with a highly personalized, consultative approach. Athena is a proud member of the Association of Executive Search Consultants (AESC), upholding the highest standards of ethical search consulting worldwide.
Role Overview
We are looking for a strategic and entrepreneurial Growth & Market Expansion Lead with expertise in market entry and expansion strategy. The role is suited for someone who can drive business growth through strategic partnerships, initiate and lead senior-level client discussions, and position Athena's offerings effectively across dynamic markets. The successful candidate will play a key role in advancing Athena's ambition of becoming a specialist in market entry and expansion advisory by identifying and building new client opportunities across industries, particularly with organizations entering or scaling in India and the Middle East.
Key Responsibilities
- Identify and pursue business development opportunities with global firms entering India, and Indian firms expanding internationally, especially in the Middle East.
- Design and execute outreach campaigns to build a qualified pipeline through outbound efforts, networking, referrals, and industry research.
- Present Athena's executive search and consulting capabilities in the context of market entry and expansion strategies.
- Partner closely with the Managing Director, Engagement Leads, and Research team to design and deliver tailored solutions aligned with client objectives.
- Build, manage, and strengthen long-term relationships with CXOs, CHROs, and other senior decision-makers across industries.
- Stay updated on regional trends, sector shifts, and emerging business expansion opportunities in Middle East.
- Represent Athena at client meetings, industry events, and pitch presentations.
- Work cross-functionally with internal stakeholders to align on targets, value propositions, and seamless client onboarding.
What We're Looking For
Skills
- Strong expertise in business development, consultative sales, and strategic account management.
- Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to influence senior leaders.
- Entrepreneurial drive with high ownership, resilience, and initiative.
- Strong grasp of executive hiring, leadership assessment, and market dynamics.
- Ability to manage multiple priorities independently while thriving in a collaborative team environment.
- Prior exposure to executive search, HR consulting, or professional services is preferred (but not essential).
Experience
- 610 years of experience in business development, client acquisition, or account expansion roles.
- Background in executive search, management consulting, or market-entry strategy will be a strong advantage.
- Prior experience engaging with senior business leaders in Middle Eastern markets is desirable.
What We Offer
- A strategic role in shaping Athena's high-growth journey toward becoming a recognized market-entry specialist.
- Direct exposure to the firm's leadership team, including the Managing Director.
- Hands-on experience across leadership hiring, strategic advisory, and market intelligence in multiple industries.
- A dynamic, merit-based culture with flexibility, autonomy, and significant long-term growth opportunities.
