Expert Interview, News from MEAI
|
22.08.2024
Saudi Arabia is undergoing one of the most ambitious economic transformations in the world. With its Vision 2030 agenda, the Kingdom aims to diversify its economy, reduce dependency on oil and position itself as a global investment and innovation hub.
High-impact infrastructure initiatives such as NEOM, exponential growth in healthcare and energy sectors and a clear mandate to attract foreign investment are creating substantial opportunities, particularly for German companies operating in advanced manufacturing, industrial automation, clean tech and medtech.
Yet amid all this opportunity, one factor remains decisive: leadership capability on the ground.
Success depends not on access to capital or technological superiority, but on the ability to deploy leaders who can operate effectively within the local context while maintaining alignment with the organizational culture and governance expectations of a Mittelstand enterprise.
In practice, many German enterprises consistently face a defined set of executional and leadership hurdles when navigating the complexities of the Saudi business environment.
Saudi Arabia is not a candidate-driven market. It is a strategic environment that demands targeted, insight-driven HR expertise. The challenge lies in appointing leaders who bring more than credentials, individuals with the adaptability, cultural intelligence and resilience to succeed in a fast-evolving, high-stakes and often complex decision-making environment.
With over 15 years of Executive Search mandates across the GCC (including UAE and Saudi Arabia), Departer has identified four critical components that distinguish resilient leadership strategies in the Kingdom:
Generic job descriptions fail to capture what leadership means in a Saudi context. Role definitions must reflect local legal requirements (e.g. Saudization quotas, GOSI), language expectations and cultural leadership norms, while remaining compatible with headquarter structures in DACH.
The majority of suitable candidates are not actively looking. A structured, discreet direct search approach is required, supported by regional market insights and a deep understanding of candidate motivation and retention in the Gulf region.
Technical expertise is necessary but insufficient. Success hinges on a leader’s ability to reconcile German and Saudi business cultures, particularly in executive roles such as Country Manager, CFO or Head of Operations.
Leaders must be able to internalize the company’s values and operating philosophy and translate them into effective leadership in a highly localized and often hierarchical business culture. Cultural fit with the DACH HQ is not optional; it is mission-critical.
Saudi Arabia is not a standard international market, it is a leadership-intensive, culturally complex and structurally unique environment.
For German businesses with serious expansion plans, leadership decisions are strategic decisions.
A one-size-fits-all recruitment approach will not suffice. What is required is a tailored talent strategy led by a partner with Middle Eastern presence, regional expertise and a track record of building leadership teams under complex conditions.
For over 15 years, Departer – The Know-Who People has been the trusted partner to German, Austrian and Swiss mid-sized enterprises, supporting the identification and appointment of senior executives across the Middle East.
From our office in Dubai, strategically located at the center of the MEAI region, we bring deep regional insight and specialized Executive Search expertise to each engagement. With an in-depth understanding of local market dynamics, regulatory environments and cultural nuances, we serve as the leading German Executive Search partner for leadership appointments throughout the Gulf States.
Our German-, English- and Arabic-speaking consultant team on the ground combines international search methodology with precise local market knowledge, enabling sustainable, high-impact placements in complex environments.
👉 Discover more about our Executive Search mandates in Saudi Arabia and the GCC:
www.departer.com
Executive Search Saudi Arabia, German companies Saudi Arabia, leadership recruitment KSA, HR strategy Saudi Arabia, GCC Executive Search, direct search Gulf region, expatriate hiring Saudi Arabia, Saudi Vision 2030 talent, cross-cultural leadership KSA, DACH companies Middle East, recruiting in Saudi Arabia, HR partner GCC, Saudi Arabia leadership challenges, German business Saudi Arabia, local market insights KSA
Learn the latest about us and our projects around the world.
To never miss an opportunity, subscribe to our newsletter.
The Blue Residency will specifically be granted to supporters of environmental action, including members of international organisations, international companies, members of associations and non-governmental organisations, global award winners, and distinguished activists and researchers in environmental work,” the UAE Cabinet announcement said.
Departer´s CEO & Co-Founder Norman Sterz and Regional Manager ANZ Sabina Langenhan Are Strengthening German-Australian Business Ties We are proud to announce the appointment of Norman Sterz, along with Brisbane-based Sabina Langenhan, as the Australian representatives of the prestigious German Association for Small and Medium-sized Businesses (BVMW International). In this role, Norman and Sabina will […]
In compliance with the regulations of the Ministry of Commerce, all companies operating in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia are required to amend their articles of association to align with the new companies system outlined in Royal Decree No. (M/132) dated 01/12/1443 AH and its executive regulations as per the decision of His Excellency the […]
Saudi Arabia is swiftly evolving into a global leader. By 2023, the country achieved an impressive 87% of its Vision 2030 goals, significantly boosting non-oil revenues to $121.8 billion and reducing unemployment to 7.7%. These milestones underscore the kingdom’s dedication to sustainable growth and economic diversification.
Vision 2030 has propelled Saudi Arabia to third place among G20 countries in economic competitiveness. This remarkable ascent is driven by comprehensive reforms in performance, infrastructure, and efficiency, firmly positioning Saudi Arabia as a key global economic player.
The economic outlook for Saudi Arabia remains positive, with continued momentum expected in diversification efforts and economic reforms. German, Swiss and Austrian companies can capitalize on emerging opportunities in the following ways: While opportunities abound, German, Swiss and Austrian companies must navigate cultural differences, regulatory complexities, and geopolitical risks. Additionally, ensuring compliance with local laws […]
Are you an employee or HR decision-maker working in a German, Austrian or Swiss (DACH) company in the United Arab Emirates? If so, we have a special invitation for you! We invite you to participate in the HR & Salary Survey 2024-25, a collaborative effort between Departer and the AHK (German-Emirati Joint Council for Industry […]
Two months ago, the European Union has celebrated the opening of the European Chamber of Commerce in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (ECCKSA). This strategic move is set to significantly enhance economic ties between the EU and the Gulf region, offering new possibilities for businesses across Europe, particularly those from the DACH region, looking to […]
The revocation of previous insolvency laws signals a new chapter for insolvency procedures in the UAE, marked by improved efficiency, transparency, and creditor safeguards. Adherence to the new Bankruptcy Law is essential for businesses in the UAE, as failure to comply could lead to penalties.
Looking forward, we anticipate the issuance of executive regulations to supplement the new law, offering additional guidance on its implementation. In the interim, existing regulations and resolutions will remain in effect, ensuring a seamless transition and stability in the insolvency framework.
Crisis times present unique challenges for companies, especially in times of employer branding. However, strong employer branding can make a significant difference by enhancing the company’s attractiveness in the job market. In this article, we explore why employer branding is crucial during crises, strategies and examples that mid-sized companies can employ to strengthen their employer […]
Empowering SMEs: The Impact of Executive Search Firms on Talent Acquisition In today’s competitive landscape, Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) across the world face critical challenges in securing top-tier executive talent. These challenges are combined with time constraints, access to specialized skills and the need for confidentiality in sensitive hires. Executive Search firms, like Departer […]
The UAE government has introduced the “Work Bundle” initiative to streamline employee residency processes and work permits for private sector companies. Initially, this program will be rolled out in Dubai, with plans to extend it to other emirates over time.
China is updating its rules for companies and one big change is how they involve employees in decision-making. Starting July 1, 2024, companies with over 300 employees must include employee representatives in their management teams. This is a departure from the old rule, which mainly applied to state-owned companies. Now this will impact not only […]
India’s thriving economy has attracted global attention, presenting enticing opportunities for foreign investors. Leading the G20 nations in economic expansion, India boasted a remarkable 7.2% growth in the fiscal year 2022-23 and is poised to sustain this momentum with a projected GDP growth rate of 6.9% in 2023-24. As the top economy in the European […]
Transforming Stress into Strength for Leaders and Organizations In support of Mental Health Awareness Month, Departer – The Know-Who People presents an insightful interview with Dr. med. Anne Pfeiffer, a renowned Mind-Body Medicine Therapist, Doctor of General Medicine and Doctor of Occupational Medicine. In this expert interview, Dr. Pfeiffer addresses common health challenges in today’s […]
Saudi Arabia is undergoing a remarkable transformation, rapidly establishing itself as a global economic leader. With substantial progress towards its Vision 2030 goals, the Kingdom presents a wealth of opportunities for European and DACH businesses looking to expand into a dynamic and evolving market. Vision 2030: Pioneering Sustainable Growth By the end of 2023, Saudi […]
Dubai’s booming economy continues to be a magnet for businesses around the globe. The city’s strategic location, bridging the East and the West, coupled with its world-class infrastructure, creates an ideal environment for businesses to thrive. This cosmopolitan city has become a global hub for trade, finance, tourism and innovation, attracting entrepreneurs, investors and professionals.
Did you know that approximately 70% of the success of private equity (PE) portfolio companies depends on having the right leadership in place? With the private equity market showing clear signs of recovery, 2025 could be a year of significant deals and exits. At the same time, alternative liquidity options such as continuation funds are […]
Gain valuable insights and strategic guidance from Kai Kim to help DACH businesses navigate regulatory complexities, cross-border transactions and cultural challenges when entering Asian markets. Expanding into Asia presents significant opportunities for DACH companies, but navigating legal complexities, cross-border transactions and cultural differences requires expertise. Regulatory landscapes vary across countries, compliance is evolving and business […]
From our market expert ANZ Sabina Langenhan – she interviewed Stefan Augustin (Investment Director for Trade and Investment Queensland) […]
by Marie-Christin Gabel Partnering for Progress: German Contributions to Saudi Arabia’s Economic Transformation Interview with Dr. Dalia Samra-Rohte (Delegate of the German Industry for Saudi Arabia) and Marie-Christin Gabel (Managing Partner MEAI, Departer) Saudi Arabia’s ambitious Vision 2030 plan aims to diversify its economy, reduce its dependence on oil and transform various sectors, creating a […]
Valuable Insights from the CEO of AHK – Interview with Oliver Oehms, CEO of the German Emirati Joint Council for Industry & Commerce (AHK). Marie-Christin Gabel, our Managing Partner MEAI, conducted an interview […]
We are delighted to announce the formalization of a strategic hashtag#partnership between Departer – The Know-Who People and International Free Zone Authority | IFZA, marked by the signing of a cooperation agreement by Departer and Diego Michel from IFZA. This milestone reflects the success of the many joint projects launched in 2024, each tailored to […]
Welcome to the 3rd edition of Employment Law & Human Resources Management in the UAE, a resource for HR professionals and decision-makers navigating the dynamic UAE market. This guide is a result of a collaborative effort by SCHLÜTER GRAF Legal Consultants, the German-Emirati Chamber of Commerce and Industry (AHK) and Departer – The Know Who […]
Departer is a leading German Executive Search company with more than two decades of experience in multinational leadership recruitment. We specialize in placing executives in medium-sized enterprises and private equity portfolio firms across DACH, MEAI, ASIA and ANZ. Our in-depth understanding of the DACH economy forms the cornerstone of international success stories. Contact Departer today […]
As we celebrate Labour Day, it’s time to pause and celebrate the heartbeat of our organizations: Our workforce, our employees! At Departer – The Know-Who People, we’ve seen firsthand the transformative power of strong HR leadership, especially after our recent Conference in Rome, where we had the privilege of meeting all incredible team members face-to-face […]
By Norman Sterz, CEO & Founder, Departer – The Know-Who People Earlier this month, I had the privilege of attending the Dubai Business Forum – Germany in Hamburg. The event was an exclusive diaglogue platform that united over 240 leading German business executives, high-profile investors and policymakers from Germany and the UAE. The objective was […]
Empowering DACH Companies for Strategic Growth in the UAE We are excited to introduce the brand new HR & Salary Report 2024-2025 by Departer in cooperation with the German Emirati Joint Council of Industry and Commerce (AHK) specifically tailored for DACH companies (Germany, Austria, Switzerland) in the United Arab Emirates. Released every two years for the […]
by Departer’s editorial team For companies in Germany, Austria and Switzerland, the role of Human Resources has drastically changed, transforming HR professionals into strategic superheroes. Once merely a back-office function, HR now wields the power to drive business strategy, foster innovation and lead organizational change. Understanding and capitalizing this newfound strength is crucial for staying […]
by Departer’s editorial team Southeast Asia is no longer the quiet sibling overshadowed by the economic giants of China and Japan. Instead, it has emerged as a vibrant and thriving economic powerhouse, offering unparalleled opportunities for companies from Germany, Austria and Switzerland. This region, with its dynamic workforce, rapid urbanization and robust digital economy, is […]
Inside Departer: Meet Our Regional Expert for AUSTRALIA At Departer, we know that global success starts with the right leadership. That’s why we take pride in the expertise of our regional specialists who guide DACH companies through the complexities of international expansion. Today, we introduce Sabina Langenhan, our Regional Manager for Australia & New Zealand. Her unique expertise […]
Marie-Christin Gabel, Managing Partner MEAI at Departer, is committed to staying ahead of market trends and using the expertise of thought leaders to guide DACH companies operating in the Middle East and Africa. As part of this, she interviewed Dr. Alexander Koldau, Regional Director Middle East, North Africa and Türkiye at VDMA, a prominent member […]
by Sabine Higgen Is Your Company Prepared to Lead Your Team into the Future of Hybrid and Remote Work? As an expert in Executive Search, Private Equity and Organizational Development, I have witnessed the transformative impact of remote and hybrid work models firsthand. The pandemic accelerated this shift, but remote work has now become a […]
In today’s dynamic job market, HR Managers play a pivotal role in shaping an organization’s success by attracting, hiring and retaining top talent. …
Valuable insights for german-speaking companies: An interview with Senior Vice President of WIKA, Tino Reppe […]