23 Strategic Thinking jobs in Saudi Arabia

Company Description

مفيد | MUFEED listed Company was established in 2009 in the field of event management, media production, as well as visual and audio media services, wood fabrication and digital marketing. We offer services through our specialized companies, ensuring a comprehensive approach to meet client needs. Our dedication to quality has garnered the trust of many clients. مفيد | MUFEED -

Role Description

This is a full-time, on-site role for a Business Strategy Specialist located in Riyadh. The Business Strategy Specialist will be responsible for developing and implementing business plans, conducting in-depth market research, and providing consulting services. This role also involves analyzing data to provide actionable insights and effective communication with stakeholders to drive business success.

Qualifications

• Strong Business Planning and Analytical Skills
• Proficient in Market Research and Consulting
• Excellent Communication skills
• Ability to work collaboratively in a fast-paced environment
• Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Economics, or related field
• Experience in the event production and media industry is a plus

• Collaborate with senior consultants to conduct research and analysis on business challenges and opportunities.
• Assist in the development of strategic plans and recommendations based on thorough data analysis and market insights.
• Support in preparing presentations, reports, and documentation to articulate findings and strategies to clients.
• Participate in client workshops, meetings, and discussions to gather requirements and align on project objectives.
• Engage in project management activities, ensuring project deliverables are met within agreed timelines.
• Keep abreast of industry trends, competitor activities, and market dynamics to provide valuable insights.
• Contribute to the continuous improvement of consulting methodologies and best practices within the team.
• Foster strong relationships with clients, understanding their needs and facilitating open communication.

Desired Candidate Profile

• Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Management, Economics, or a related field; a master's degree is a plus.
• 1-3 years of experience in consulting, business development, or strategic planning.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with proficiency in data analysis tools.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present complex information clearly.
• Ability to work collaboratively within a team environment and engage with clients effectively.
• Proficient in MS Office Suite (Excel, PowerPoint, Word) and other related software.
• Ability to adapt quickly to changing priorities and manage multiple tasks simultaneously.
• Willingness to learn and develop skills in a fast-paced and dynamic consulting environment.

Why work with us?

Join us to shape your career and thrive in a supportive, forward-thinking environment.

Company Industry

• IT - Software Services

Department / Functional Area

• Administration

Keywords

• Associate Business & Strategy Consultant

3 weeks ago Be among the first 25 applicants

Octopus by RTG seeking a dynamic and driven Associate Business & Strategy Consultant to join a partner reputable consultancy firm that is expanding team in Riyadh. As part of our consultancy division, you will work closely with senior consultants and clients to identify business needs, develop strategic solutions, and support effective implementation across diverse industries.

Responsibilities:

• Collaborate with senior consultants to conduct research and analysis on business challenges and opportunities
• Assist in the development of strategic plans and recommendations based on thorough data analysis and market insights
• Support in preparing presentations, reports, and documentation to articulate findings and strategies to clients
• Participate in client workshops, meetings, and discussions to gather requirements and align on project objectives
• Engage in project management activities, ensuring project deliverables are met within agreed timelines
• Keep abreast of industry trends, competitor activities, and market dynamics to provide valuable insights
• Contribute to the continuous improvement of consulting methodologies and best practices within the team
• Foster strong relationships with clients, understanding their needs and facilitating open communication
  
  

• Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Management, Economics, or a related field; a master's degree is a plus
• 1-3 years of experience in consulting, business development, or strategic planning
• Saudi National
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with proficiency in data analysis tools
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present complex information clearly
• Ability to work collaboratively within a team environment and engage with clients effectively
• Proficient in MS Office Suite (Excel, PowerPoint, Word) and other related software
• Ability to adapt quickly to changing priorities and manage multiple tasks simultaneously
• Willingness to learn and develop skills in a fast-paced and dynamic consulting environment
  
  

• Seniority level Entry level

• Employment type Contract

• Job function Other
• Industries IT Services and IT Consulting

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Leo Burnett Worldwide, part of Publicis Groupe, is one of the world’s largest agency networks with 96 offices and nearly 10,000 employees. In 2012, the global network was awarded a record-breaking 55 Lions at the Cannes Lions Festival of Creativity and was also named “Network of the Year” by YoungGuns, Dubai Lynx and MENA Cristal Awards.

Leo Burnett works with some of the world’s most valuable brands including The Coca-Cola Company, Fiat, Kellogg’s, McDonald’s, Nintendo, P&G, Samsung and Allstate among others. To learn more about Leo Burnett Middle East and North Africa visit leoburnettmea.com, facebook.com/leoburnettmea and follow us via @LeoBurnettMEA on Twitter and Instagram.

The director role in the Strategy & Insights team oversees managing and directing strategy for top clients of the agency. Acts as a team leader and mentor to younger strategy talent. Plays an active role in contributing to the Groupe's vision of Power of One. Prioritizes driving new business success.

Champions great creative work and strives to win awards.

Technical & Product

1. Actively uses and advocates the Publicis Groupe FUEL platform. Directs the team to do so too.
2. Actively participates in every Groupe and Agency OPEN brief with inspiring springboards. Directs the team to do so too.
3. Deconstructs past award submissions to identify key components of a successful story and discusses findings consistently.
4. Comes up with proactive briefs for clients based on qualified opportunities. Directs the team to do so too.
5. Initiates and directs the client's Effectiveness awards entries and submissions, regionally and globally. Directs the team to do so too.
6. Inspires creative teams on Creative awards for clients.

Business Acumen & Operational Efficiency

1. Is the 'Google' and 'ChatGPT' in the agency on the client's category and business.
2. Builds knowledge of key technology and emerging vendors to integrate innovative solutions for clients.
3. Makes persuasive and effective presentations.
4. Unearths and directs client workshops and actively participates.
5. Directs monitoring of social, cultural and technological trends along with their impact on attitudes and behaviours.
6. Directs team participation in client-conducted research.

Innovative & Analytical Mindset

1. Market Research: Produces groundbreaking new findings based on data.
2. Ideation: Creates new approaches for delivering knowledge and inspiration that expands the creative team's ability and output.
3. Competitive Analysis: Is the go-to person for knowledge on all things to do with the competition (products, business, future plans, communication).
4. Presentation Development: Presents to the highest level of an organization and effectively persuades to sell the thinking and the creative work.
5. Strategic proactivity: Creates strategic briefs and opportunities that have the power to transform lives or businesses or brands.

People & Leadership

1. Capable of developing and sharing a strategic vision that others can aspire and commit to, having the confidence to adjust and adapt in the dynamic world.
2. Able to use storytelling to connect with internal and external stakeholders in a compelling manner to influence and inspire.
3. Able to handle complex issues and make decisions even when missing information.
4. Able to proactively develop meaningful relationships with key decision makers across functions.
5. Accepts responsibility for client problems, manages conflict and actively works to solve issues internally and externally.
6. Able to build succession plans and grow and mentor future talent.
7. Encourages others to value difference, collaboration and positive spirit while getting the best.

Self

1. Showcases agility and ability to adapt to different situations based on past experiences, feedback and industry changes.
2. Can set high impact objectives and goes above and beyond to exceed performance.
3. Demonstrates the Growth Mindset and can take ownership of personal development to continuously evolve and futureproof their capabilities.
4. Able to constructively challenge the status quo and take risks to challenge internal and external perspectives.
5. Approaches situations and individuals with honesty, integrity, transparency and humbleness.
6. Able to stay resilient and maintain drive and a positive outlook when faced with challenges.
7. Actively listens and is receptive to others' feedback on performance.

• 12–15 years of experience in a strategic role, ideally within a creative agency environment.
• Fluency in Arabic is highly preferred.
• In-depth knowledge of the Saudi market and its nuances.
• Proven track record of strong leadership and decision-making.
• Exceptional ability to manage, mentor, and inspire a team.
• Bachelor's Degree.

About The Role

The Director of Business Development & Strategy will serve as a key member of the executive leadership team, reporting directly to the Group CEO.

This role is responsible for defining, executing, and monitoring the overall strategic direction of the group and its subsidiaries.

The successful candidate will combine a sharp strategic mindset with hands-on business development expertise, leading corporate transformation initiatives to ensure sustainable growth and operational alignment with the group vision.

• Lead the development, implementation, and monitoring of the group's corporate strategy, in alignment with CEO and board directives.
• Translate the CEO's vision into actionable strategies and operational roadmaps for the holding group and subsidiaries.
• Oversee Balanced Scorecard (BSC) and KPI frameworks to track strategy execution and performance across the group.
• Identify strategic priorities, emerging market trends, and business risks, providing actionable insights and recommendations to the CEO.
• Identify, evaluate, and execute new business opportunities, partnerships, and investments to diversify revenue streams and enhance the group's portfolio.
• Lead market research, feasibility studies, and competitor analysis to support expansion initiatives across Saudi Arabia and the region.
• Drive negotiations for strategic partnerships, mergers, and acquisitions to strengthen the group's market position.
• Collaborate closely with subsidiary CEOs and leadership teams to align strategies and operational goals with the group's overarching objectives.
• Ensure subsidiaries have clear business plans, measurable KPIs, and strong governance frameworks.
• Act as the bridge between the CEO, executive leadership, and subsidiary boards, ensuring strategic alignment and transparent communication.
• Lead digital transformation initiatives across subsidiaries to improve efficiency and customer experience.
• Promote a culture of innovation and continuous improvement, ensuring the group remains competitive and future ready.
• Develop strategic dashboards and automated reporting systems to provide real-time performance tracking for the CEO and board.

• Bachelors degree in business administration, Economics, Finance, or Strategy.
• Masters degree (MBA or related field) highly preferred.
• Minimum 10+ years experience in strategy, business development, or corporate planning, with at least 5 years in a leadership role.
• Proven success in managing multi-subsidiary portfolios and driving large-scale strategic initiatives.
• Strong background in market expansion, partnerships, and investment analysis.
• Prior experience in a holding company or diversified conglomerate within Saudi Arabia or the GCC is an advantage.
• Experience in Hajj / Umrah and hospitality sectors is a strong plus.
• Advanced proficiency in strategic thinking, business acumen, decision-making, and change management.
• Expert-level capabilities in stakeholder management, M&A, financial modeling, BSC & KPI management, and market intelligence.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and leadership skills.
• Cultural agility and the ability to operate effectively in a complex, multi-stakeholder environment.

Overview

JOB TITLE : Retail Strategy and Business Planning Expert

TERM : 12 months (with potential extension)

CLIENT LOCATION : Riyadh, Saudi Arabia (on-site)

DIVISION : Retail Banking

REPORTS TO : Head of Consumer Products

RELEVANT EXPERIENCE :

• 15+ Years of Retail Products and Credit Risk Experience
• Understanding of KSA Retail banking market
• Proven experience in designing and executing Retail strategies
• Deep knowledge of retail products, credit policy, retail sales, performance management and strategy

MANDATORY REQUIREMENTS

• Demonstrated ability to lead digital transformation, system integrations, and regulatory compliance initiatives

PURPOSE OF THE PROJECT

The Head of Consumer Products for a leading bank is seeking a seasoned Credit Risk professional with over 20 years of experience to support in the development and execution of robust credit frameworks, lead digital transformation initiatives, ensure regulatory compliance, and enhance operational efficiency. The resource will lead the strategic planning, performance monitoring, and transformation initiatives for the Retail Products Department. This role is pivotal in aligning product strategies with business goals, regulatory frameworks, and market dynamics. The manager will collaborate with cross-functional teams to drive growth, optimize operations, and enhance customer experience across retail products such as mortgages, personal finance, auto finance, credit cards, liabilities, and loyalty programs.

Key Activities

Core Responsibilities and Accountabilities

• Develop and implement strategic plans for retail product lines, aligned with bank-wide objectives and regulatory requirements.
• Support in reviewing and enhancing credit risk policies for retail asset products to explore new segments and market opportunities to gain market share
• Conduct market scans and competitive analysis to identify growth opportunities and innovation areas
• Deliver weekly and monthly performance dashboards covering KPIs such as sales volumes, profitability, market share, and customer segmentation
• Track strategic initiatives including CEO priorities, transformation programs, and compliance actions
• Develop and execute strategic business plans to enhance shareholder value and customer experience
• Design and implement end-to-end credit risk and operational frameworks for the bank
• Drive digital transformation initiatives including credit scoring modules, online approvals, and core banking system integrations.
• Oversee key product launches and system readiness
• Design and oversee campaigns to drive business volume and product utilization across customer segments
• Manage governance and PMO functions for strategic initiatives, including risk tracking and steering committee updates
• Work closely with product, marketing, business technology, and digital teams to ensure seamless execution of strategic plans

KPIs

• Development of strategy documents for each product line
• Development of credit policy and risk management structure for key products in order to open up new segments and opportunities and optimize existing portfolio
• Development of performance monitoring dashboards and presentations for driving growth
• Market benchmarking reports and studies
• Project management of critical and centrally driven initiatives
• Management of key retail KPIs and suggestions on improvements

Knowledge and Experience

• Extensive Experience : Over 20 years in credit risk and retail banking, with proven success in managing large portfolios and implementing risk frameworks
• Educational Background : Bachelors degree in Business Administration, Finance, Economics, or related field; MBA preferred.
• Technical Expertise : Deep knowledge of retail products, core banking systems, credit scoring, loan origination, and collection systems
• Project & Change Management : Demonstrated ability to lead digital transformation, system integrations, and regulatory compliance initiatives
• Leadership Skills : Experience managing multicultural teams and driving performance across operational and strategic functions

Mandatory Skills

• Results-oriented with a strong drive for achieving targets and KPIs
• Creative and innovative thinker with a passion for developing new solutions
• Team player with strong leadership and project management skills
• Customer-centric mindset with a focus on delivering exceptional service and value

Overview

Foreground is partnering with a leading, diversified holding group headquartered in Saudi Arabia, operating across multiple sectors with a strong focus on Hajj, Umrah, and hospitality services in Makkah and Madinah. Our client is renowned for driving strategic growth and transformation across its portfolio of subsidiaries, playing a pivotal role in shaping the future of the region's service landscape.

The Director of Business Development & Strategy will serve as a key member of the executive leadership team, reporting directly to the Group CEO. This role is responsible for defining, executing, and monitoring the overall strategic direction of the group and its subsidiaries. The successful candidate will combine a sharp strategic mindset with hands-on business development expertise, leading corporate transformation initiatives to ensure sustainable growth and operational alignment with the group vision.

• Lead the development, implementation, and monitoring of the group's corporate strategy, in alignment with CEO and board directives.
• Translate the CEO's vision into actionable strategies and operational roadmaps for the holding group and subsidiaries.
• Oversee Balanced Scorecard (BSC) and KPI frameworks to track strategy execution and performance across the group.
• Identify strategic priorities, emerging market trends, and business risks, providing actionable insights and recommendations to the CEO.
• Identify, evaluate, and execute new business opportunities, partnerships, and investments to diversify revenue streams and enhance the group's portfolio.
• Lead market research, feasibility studies, and competitor analysis to support expansion initiatives across Saudi Arabia and the region.
• Drive negotiations for strategic partnerships, mergers, and acquisitions to strengthen the group's market position.
• Collaborate closely with subsidiary CEOs and leadership teams to align strategies and operational goals with the group's overarching objectives.
• Ensure subsidiaries have clear business plans, measurable KPIs, and strong governance frameworks.
• Act as the bridge between the CEO, executive leadership, and subsidiary boards, ensuring strategic alignment and transparent communication.
• Lead digital transformation initiatives across subsidiaries to improve efficiency and customer experience.
• Promote a culture of innovation and continuous improvement, ensuring the group remains competitive and future ready.
• Develop strategic dashboards and automated reporting systems to provide real-time performance tracking for the CEO and board.

• Bachelors degree in business administration, economics, finance, or strategy.
• Masters degree (MBA or related field) highly preferred.
• Minimum 10+ years experience in strategy, business development, or corporate planning, with at least 5 years in a leadership role.
• Proven success in managing multi-subsidiary portfolios and driving large-scale strategic initiatives.
• Strong background in market expansion, partnerships, and investment analysis.
• Prior experience in a holding company or diversified conglomerate within Saudi Arabia or the GCC is an advantage.
• Experience in Hajj/Umrah and hospitality sectors is a strong plus.
• Advanced proficiency in strategic thinking, business acumen, decision-making, and change management.
• Expert-level capabilities in stakeholder management, M&A, financial modeling, BSC & KPI management, and market intelligence.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and leadership skills.
• Cultural agility and the ability to operate effectively in a complex, multi-stakeholder environment.

• Driving
• Strategic Initiatives
• Modeling
• Strategic Partnerships
• Intelligence
• Acquisitions
• Analysis
• Strategic Thinking
• Financial Modeling
• Digital Transformation
• New Business Opportunities
• Investments
• Customer Experience
• Partnerships
• Stakeholder Management
• Decision-Making
• BSC
• Change Management
• Continuous Improvement
• Market Research
• Economics
• Strategy
• Business Development
• Negotiation
• Administration
• Research
• Finance
• Planning
• Business
• Leadership
• Communication
• Management