General Manager – Job Description
Location: Business Bay, Dubai
Position: General Manager
Employment Type: Full-Time, Permanent
Reports To: CEO / Managing Director
Role Overview
As General Manager at our full-service advertising agency , you will serve as the leadership anchor—driving operational excellence, client satisfaction, financial performance, and strategic growth. You will manage all facets of the agency, including creative, client services, finance, production, HR, and digital, ensuring alignment with MOTAD’s vision and client goals.
Key Responsibilities Operational Leadership & Strategy
- Oversee end-to-end agency operations, ensuring efficient workflow across departments.
- Set and monitor strategic goals, KPI targets (revenue, profitability, client satisfaction), and performance metrics.
- Maintain strict budget control and campaign profitability.
Client & Account Leadership
- Build and nurture senior-level client relationships, serving as the primary point of contact for key accounts.
- Understand client objectives and translate business needs into creative solutions and campaign strategies.
- Monitor project delivery to meet quality, deadlines, and ROI expectations.
Business Development & Growth
- Identify and pursue new business opportunities, including pitches, proposals, and networking.
- Expand relationships with existing clients to uncover upsell and cross-sell opportunities.
- Collaborate with the marketing and business development teams to enhance agency visibility.
Creative & Delivery Excellence
- Inspire, support, and lead creative and production teams to deliver world-class work.
- Ensure campaigns are compelling, on-brand, and deliver measurable results.
- Integrate new technologies and industry best practices (e.g., AI-generated content, CGI, social innovation) to drive innovation.
Financial Management
- Oversee budgeting, financial planning, revenue forecasting, and cost management.
- Ensure projects are delivered on time, on budget, and achieve target profitability.
- Report financial performance to senior leadership and implement corrective actions when necessary.
Team Leadership & Culture
- Lead, mentor, and develop a diverse, multidisciplinary team.
- Foster a collaborative, growth-oriented culture aligned with agency values.
- Implement performance development plans and succession strategies.
Ideal Candidate Profile Experience & Skills
- 10+ years in advertising, creative, or marketing agencies, with at least 5 years in senior leadership or GM roles.
- Strong track record in operations, P&L management, business development, and client servicing.
- Hands-on experience leading creative, digital, production, and strategy teams.
- Excellent financial acumen and ability to manage complex budgets.
- Exceptional leadership and people management capabilities.
- Strong understanding of the Dubai/UAE marketing ecosystem and multicultural client landscape.
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Business, Marketing, Advertising, Communications, or related field. MBA or equivalent is a plus.
- Familiarity with digital trends, AI content creation, and emerging advertising technologies.
Competencies
- Strategic thinker with an entrepreneurial mindset.
- Outstanding communication, negotiation, and presentation skills.
- Decisive leadership with strong problem-solving abilities.
- Adaptable, resilient, and composed under pressure.
- Passionate about innovation, storytelling, and creative excellence.
Job Types: Full-time, Permanent