Business Development Director (Automotive)

Our client, a leader in the automotive industry, is seeking an experienced and dynamic Business Development professional to help expand client relationships and bring strong knowledge of Vehicle Manufacturing. This role is critical to the company’s continued success, as it involves managing all aspects of business development and client relationship management. Additionally, the role requires close coordination with the Plant Director, Finance, and HR teams. The successful candidate will report directly to the CEO and collaborate closely with senior leadership to enhance profitability and strengthen customer partnerships. Responsibility :

Client Focus & Business GrowthManage and nurture client relationships to maximize satisfaction and uncover new business opportunities. Identify prospective clients through market insights and industry networks. Lead contract negotiations and close deals with current and potential clients. Adapt strategies and communication styles to suit diverse markets, demonstrating a deep understanding of business cultures and standards in Europe, the U. S. , Japan, and China. Take ownership of Profit & Loss (P&L) management to ensure business units meet financial targets and deliver sustainable growth.

Operational ManagementSupervise Government Affairs, Safety, Launch Control, IT, HR, and Engineering departments (based on qualifications), ensuring efficient operations and adherence to company standards. Foster seamless communication and collaboration across these departments and with Production to drive organizational success. Monitor and enhance the performance of non-production functions by implementing best practices and continuous improvements. Lead cost-saving initiatives focused on reducing material waste, improving energy efficiency, and optimizing labor. Collaborate closely with HR on labor relations, union negotiations (if applicable), workforce planning, talent acquisition, employee engagement, and retention strategies.

Lead Strategy and Manage Legal, Compliance & Stakeholder RelationsCollaborate closely with the CEO to establish and align business development goals with the company’s overall strategic objectives. Design and implement growth strategies to expand the client base and strengthen existing partnerships. Manage relationships with key stakeholders, ensuring clear communication and alignment across internal teams and external partners. Work in partnership with legal counsel to address disputes, ensure regulatory compliance, and mitigate risks. Support the preparation, review, and management of legal documents to protect and advance the company’s interests. Qualifications :

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Business Administration, or a related field; MBA preferred. Minimum of 10 years in an executive or senior management role within a commercial function at a car manufacturer, with a deep understanding of factory operations and corporate internal processes. Strong leadership with a hands-on, pragmatic approach to problem-solving and execution. Proven ability to lead cross-functional teams, manage complexity, and drive business performance. Familiar with legal and regulatory frameworks relevant to manufacturing and corporate governance. Strong global networking capabilities, especially with industry stakeholders and standards across Europe, U. S. , Japan China and others.

Demonstrated commitment to innovation, with a keen understanding of emerging trends in electric vehicles (EVs) and automotive technology. Excellent communication skills in both Thai and English