Business Development Manager

Company Description

MetaApply | IE is a global leader in international education, offering end-to-end services in higher education and language learning for students worldwide. We are transforming the study-abroad journey through AI-powered solutions that connect students with leading universities across the globe. With a presence in multiple international markets, MetaApply | IE is committed to making global education accessible and empowering students to achieve their academic and career aspirations.

Position

Business Development Manager – UAE (MENA Market)

Location: United Arab Emirates (Remote/Hybrid)

Employment Type: Full-Time

Salary: Competitive (AED)

Role Overview

MetaApply | IE is looking for an experienced Business Development Manager to drive business growth across the UAE and the wider MENA region. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in the international education industry, with proven experience in developing strategic partnerships with education agents, schools, universities, and other stakeholders. The candidate should possess in-depth knowledge of the MENA study-abroad market and be passionate about expanding MetaApply's presence across the region.

Key Responsibilities

• Identify, onboard, and manage new education partners, including education consultants, schools, universities, and strategic organizations across the UAE and MENA region.
• Develop and execute business development strategies to achieve revenue and partnership targets.
• Strengthen and expand relationships with existing partners to maximize business opportunities.
• Conduct market research to identify emerging trends, competitor activities, and new growth opportunities within the MENA market.
• Generate and qualify leads through networking, events, referrals, and strategic outreach.
• Deliver presentations, product demonstrations, and partnership proposals to prospective clients.
• Negotiate commercial agreements and ensure successful onboarding of new partners.
• Collaborate with Marketing and Product teams to execute market-specific campaigns and initiatives.
• Maintain accurate sales pipelines, forecasts, and reports using CRM tools.
• Represent MetaApply | IE at education fairs, partner meetings, exhibitions, and industry events across the region.
• Achieve monthly, quarterly, and annual business development and revenue targets.

Qualifications & Experience

• Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Marketing, International Business, or a related field.
• Minimum 5 years of business development experience within the Study Abroad, International Education, or EdTech sector, specifically across the UAE and MENA market.
• Strong understanding of international student recruitment, admissions processes, and education partnership ecosystems.
• Proven experience in partnership development, sales, and account management.
• Excellent negotiation, communication, and presentation skills.
• Experience working with CRM platforms and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Ability to work independently in a fast-paced, target-driven environment.
• Willingness to travel across the UAE and MENA region as required.

Language Requirements

• Fluency in Arabic (Mandatory)
• Fluency in Malayalam (Preferred)
• Strong English communication skills (written and verbal).