Business Operations -Manager, Abu Dhabi

Joby Aviation

About the Role

The Manager, Business Operations will work directly with Joby s UAE General Manager to prepare the Abu Dhabi market for a successful commercial launch and long-term scale. This role sits at the intersection of operations, business development, manufacturing integration, and strategic execution.

You will manage complex, cross-functional initiatives; support commercial and government partnerships; and translate global strategies into executable local plans. Success in this role requires strong program management skills, sound business judgment, and the ability to operate effectively in a fast-moving, ambiguous, and highly regulated environment.

Joby s presence in Abu Dhabi will span flight operations, business development, manufacturing and assembly integration, and ecosystem partnerships, and this role will play a key part in coordinating across these areas.

This is a full-time, in-office role based in Abu Dhabi, UAE. Remote work is not permitted.

What You ll Do

• Partner with government and semi-government stakeholders across the UAE to establish and scale Joby s operational presence, supporting regulatory alignment, commercial agreements, and long-term strategic partnerships.
• Lead cross-functional launch initiatives in close coordination with Joby s global teams across operations, manufacturing, engineering, legal, finance, and policy
• Develop financial and operational models to support strategic planning, investment decisions, and long-range forecasting
• Program-manage local operations, including aircraft assembly, manufacturing enablement, supply-chain coordination, and operational readiness, translating global plans into executable local programs.
• Drive business development and market analysis, identifying growth opportunities, evaluating partnerships, and supporting negotiations with public and private sector counterparties.
• Act as a strategic integrator between global subject-matter experts and local stakeholders, ensuring Joby s technical, operational, and commercial capabilities are effectively deployed in the UAE market.
• Support the UAE General Manager on special projects, executive briefings, and strategic initiatives critical to launching and scaling Joby s first global market.

Required Qualifications

• 8+ years of experience in program management, strategy & operations, investment banking, or management consulting, with exposure to aviation, aerospace, manufacturing, or infrastructure
• Strong financial and analytical capabilities, including building and maintaining financial models, operating plans, and multi-scenario business cases.
• Proven ability to manage complex, cross-functional programs, coordinating multiple stakeholders in fast-moving and ambiguous environments.
• Demonstrated experience working within the UAE ecosystem, including engagement with government and semi-government entities.
• Arabic proficiency is preferred, but not a requirement.
• A self-starter with a get-it-done mindset that thrives in dynamic and fast-paced environments.
• Flexibility to work across time zones (including occasional US business hours) and willingness to travel regionally and internationally as needed.