Network Development Manager (Automotive)

Job Summary

We are looking for an experienced Network Development Manager to drive the strategic development and expansion of SAIC Motor Malaysia’s dealer network across Malaysia. The role is responsible for network planning, dealer identification and appointment, new outlet development, Corporate Identity (CI) implementation and network governance across the Company’s automotive brand portfolio. You will work closely with dealer partners and internal stakeholders to ensure appropriate market coverage, compliance with brand standards and sustainable network growth.

Key Responsibilities

1.      Network Strategy & Planning

• Develop and implement dealer network development plans aligned with the Company’s business and brand strategies.
• Conduct market, territory and network coverage analysis to identify priority locations and expansion opportunities.
• Assess network capacity and recommend new outlets, upgrades, relocations or other network development initiatives.
• Monitor competitor networks, market developments and industry trends to support network planning decisions.
• Support network planning requirements for existing and future brands under SAIC Motor Malaysia.

2.      Dealer Identification & Appointment

• Identify and evaluate potential dealer partners based on financial capability, automotive experience, location, facilities and business potential.
• Conduct dealer and site assessments and prepare recommendations for Management review.
• Support commercial discussions, dealer appointment documentation and agreement processes.
• Coordinate the onboarding of newly appointed dealers.

3.      Dealer Outlet Development & Corporate Identity

• Manage dealership development projects from site assessment and approval through renovation, construction and outlet opening.
• Coordinate with dealers, consultants, contractors and internal stakeholders to ensure projects are completed within agreed timelines.
• Ensure dealer facilities comply with the relevant brand Corporate Identity, facility and operational standards.
• Monitor renovation, upgrading and CI implementation projects across the dealer network.
• Support the implementation of different CI requirements where the Company operates multiple automotive brands.

4.      Network Governance & Standards

• Develop, implement and maintain dealer network standards, guidelines and governance requirements.
• Conduct regular facility, operational and CI compliance reviews and follow up on corrective actions.
• Maintain accurate dealer network information, project status and related documentation.
• Support dealer appointment, relocation, upgrading, consolidation or closure processes where required.

5.      Dealer Performance & Network Effectiveness

• Monitor the effectiveness and sustainability of the dealer network, including market coverage, capacity and dealer business performance.
• ·Work closely with Sales, Aftersales, Marketing and other functions to identify network improvement opportunities.
• Support initiatives to strengthen dealer capability, customer experience and overall network performance.
• Evaluate network requirements as the Company’s brand portfolio and product range expand.

6.      Cross-Functional & Stakeholder Management

• Work closely with Sales, Aftersales, Marketing, Finance, Legal and other relevant functions on dealer development initiatives.
• Build strong working relationships with existing and potential dealer partners.
• Coordinate with regional and HQ stakeholders where required on network development, CI and brand implementation matters.
• Prepare network development proposals, progress reports and presentations for Management.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Marketing, Automotive, Property/Project Management or a related discipline. Equivalent relevant experience may also be considered.
• Minimum 5 years of relevant experience in automotive dealer network development, dealer development, business development or related functions, preferably with an automotive OEM or distributor.
• Hands-on experience in dealer appointment, network planning, outlet development, Corporate Identity implementation and dealer network governance.
• Good understanding of the Malaysian automotive market and dealership operating environment.
• Strong project management skills with the ability to manage multiple dealership development projects and timelines.
• Strong commercial awareness with good analytical, negotiation and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills with the ability to work effectively with dealer principals, senior management and cross-functional teams.
• Proficiency in English and Bahasa Malaysia. Mandarin proficiency would be an added advantage for communication with HQ and regional stakeholders.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office, particularly Excel and PowerPoint.
• Willing and able to travel regularly within Malaysia.

Preferred Candidate Profile

We are looking for someone who combines strategic network planning with hands-on execution. The ideal candidate should be comfortable evaluating markets and dealer proposals at management level while also following through on site development, CI compliance and dealership opening activities.