General Manager - Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

About the Role

Joby Aviation is pioneering piloted air taxis that take off vertically and provide quiet, efficient transport over urban areas, promising a future where people can avoid congestion and spend more quality time. Since 2009, Joby has advanced towards FAA certification and plans to launch services in the US and Dubai. Now, the company is expanding its manufacturing and preparing for commercial operations.

Position Overview

The General Manager will lead Joby's establishment and growth in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA). This role involves creating the operational foundation, building strategic partnerships including joint ventures and mergers & acquisitions, engaging with governmental and municipal bodies, and formulating long-term strategies to enable a compliant, secure, and scalable service launch. The candidate will represent Joby locally, drive brand awareness, translate market insights into actions, and report directly to senior leadership and the board.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement the foundational business structure for Joby's entry into the KSA market.
• Forge and maintain trusted relationships with local governments, municipalities, and strategic partners to strengthen Joby's position in the region.
• Lead corporate development initiatives such as M&A, joint ventures, and strategic partnerships; oversee due diligence and end-to-end deal execution in KSA.
• Execute a comprehensive multi-year business strategy covering areas including aircraft sales, business development, government relations, manufacturing, and operations.
• Monitor local market trends and mobility preferences, and devise actionable strategies to capitalize on emerging opportunities.
• Collaborate closely with Joby's US headquarters to align on global initiatives and assist in launching a safe and compliant service in KSA.
• Drive local brand recognition by working with marketing and communications to increase awareness and adoption.
• Act as Joby's principal local representative at industry events and in media engagements.
• Regularly report business performance metrics and strategic needs to executive leadership and the board of directors.

Candidate Requirements

• A bachelor's degree or equivalent professional experience.
• Over 10 years of experience in M&A, corporate development, program management, business development, government relations, or strategy.
• More than 10 years of progressive leadership experience with demonstrated responsibility growth.
• Strong strategic thinking, business acumen, and structured problem-solving capabilities, proven through delivery of large-scale projects.
• Outstanding communication and presentation skills with the ability to influence executives, inspire teams, and engage cross-functionally as well as with external stakeholders.
• An entrepreneurial approach suitable for launching and scaling new entities.
• Exceptional skills in designing and executing growth strategies.
• Robust professional network within KSA and the broader Middle East region, with proven relationship-building abilities.
• Fluent English and Arabic communication skills, both written and spoken.
• Willingness and ability to travel up to 30% of the time, including trips to the United States.
• Legal work eligibility in KSA or qualification for a sponsored work visa.

Preferred Qualifications

• MBA or other advanced degrees relevant to the industry.
• Experience and knowledge of aviation policies and regulatory environments, including GACA, FAA, and EASA frameworks.
• Demonstrated track record of profit and loss management.
• Experience in aviation or aerospace sectors.
• Proven experience launching and scaling a new business or division.
• Extensive business exposure within the Middle East market.
• Background in government and military relations and operations.

Additional Details

Joby Aviation is committed to Equal Employment Opportunity, encouraging applications from all qualified candidates.