Job Description

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Location: United Arab Emirates
Industry: Holding Group - FMCG Operations (Manufacturing, Trading, Distribution)
Reporting to: Group CEO / Board of Directors
Direct Reports: Strategy Managers, M&A Analysts, and Project Teams
Role Overview
The Head of M&A and Strategy will be responsible for identifying, evaluating, and executing growth opportunities for the Group through acquisitions, joint ventures, strategic alliances, and organic growth initiatives.
This role will drive market expansion, portfolio diversification, and shareholder value creation by combining deep FMCG market knowledge with financial acumen and deal execution expertise.
Key Responsibilities
1. Strategic Planning & Corporate Development

• Lead the Group's long-term strategic planning process in alignment with board objectives.

• Analyze FMCG market trends, consumer behavior, and competitor strategies in the UAE and GCC.

• Identify strategic growth areas, including new product lines, regional expansion, and vertical integration opportunities.

2. Mergers & Acquisitions Execution

• Source and evaluate acquisition, partnership, and divestment opportunities aligned with Group strategy.

• Lead due diligence processes (financial, operational, legal, and regulatory).

• Negotiate transaction structures, valuations, and deal terms in collaboration with legal and finance teams.

• Manage integration planning to ensure seamless post-deal transitions.

3. Investment & Financial Analysis

• Develop financial models for acquisitions, joint ventures, and strategic investments.

• Assess ROI, payback periods, and risk profiles for all strategic initiatives.

• Prepare board-ready investment proposals and recommendation papers.

4. Stakeholder & Partner Engagement

• Build relationships with investment banks, consultants, private equity firms, and government agencies.

• Represent the Group in strategic negotiations and industry events.

5. Strategic Projects & Transformation

• Oversee high-impact projects such as supply chain consolidation, digital transformation,and new market entries.

• Collaborate with the COO and other functional heads to align operational execution with strategic goals.

6. Governance & Reporting

• Present regular updates to the board on M&A pipeline, market trends, and strategic initiatives.

• Ensure all strategic activities comply with UAE laws, competition regulations, and industry standards.

Requirements
Qualifications & Experience

• Bachelor's degree in Business, Finance, Economics, or related field (MBA or CFA preferred).

• 12-15 years' experience in strategy, M&A, or corporate development, with at least 5 years in a senior leadership role.

• FMCG sector experience in the UAE/GCC is highly preferred.

• Proven track record of closing mid-to-large scale acquisitions and integrations.

• Strong financial modeling, valuation, and negotiation skills.

• Deep understanding of UAE/GCC market dynamics, regulations, and competitive landscape.

Key Competencies
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• Strategic vision with commercial acumen.

• High-level negotiation and stakeholder management skills.

• Strong analytical, financial, and risk assessment abilities.

• Ability to manage multiple complex projects under tight deadlines.

• Exceptional presentation and communication skills.

Skills Required