Country Manager

Position Title: Country Manager
Location: Baghdad
Open to: Locals or Expats who are willing to reside in Baghdad.
Preferred experience: Telecom, wireless communications, defense, and security

Position Overview:
This role is responsible for overseeing all operations, strategic initiatives, and business development activities to lead the defense products division in Iraq.
The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in the defense industry, a strong understanding of government procurement processes, and exceptional leadership skills.

Key Responsibilities:
•   Develop and implement the company’s regional strategy to achieve growth and profitability objectives.
•   Establish and maintain strong relationships with key government agencies, military organizations, and industry stakeholders.
•   Ensure compliance with all local defense regulations and export controls (e.g., ITAR, EAR).
•   Identify, pursue, and secure new and existing business opportunities in the defense sector.
•   Oversee proposals and submissions for government and private sector defense contracts.
•   Manage day-to-day operations, including sales, program execution, marketing, and customer support activities within the country.
•   Lead a high-performing team, fostering a culture of excellence, accountability, and innovation.
•   Monitor market trends, competitor activities, and customer needs to inform business strategies.
•   Ensure adherence to all legal, regulatory, and ethical standards governing the defense industry.
•   Collaborate with internal and external legal teams to navigate complex regulatory environments.
•   Prepare and manage budgets to ensure financial objectives are met.
•   Monitor and report on financial performance, implementing corrective actions when necessary.

Qualifications:

•    minimum of 10 years of experience in the defense industry, including roles in business development or operational leadership and preferably with communications background.
•    Proven track record of managing large-scale government or defense contracts.
•    Bachelor’s degree in engineering, business administration, defense studies, or a related field.
•    Strong understanding of government procurement processes and defense acquisition cycles.
•    Deep knowledge of local and international defense regulations, including export controls.
•    Excellent leadership, negotiation, and relationship-building skills.
•    Strong analytical and decision-making capabilities.
•    Fluency in Arabic and English is required.
•    Certifications in project management (e.g., PMP) or defense contracting.