Saeed Hijjawi, Commercial Director at DAC Group discusses how DAC Group aligns with Vision 2030 and drives success.
In this exclusive interview, Saudi Projects speaks with Saeed Hijjawi about his role in shaping the company’s commercial direction, driving revenue growth, and ensuring DAC Group remains a key player in the Kingdom’s evolving built environment.
As Saudi Arabia’s construction sector accelerates under the transformative goals of Vision 2030, the importance of strategic commercial leadership has never been greater. At the heart of DAC Group’s growth is Saeed Hijjawi, the company’s Commercial Director, whose expertise spans business development, strategic planning, and financial oversight.
SAUDI PROJECTS: Can you tell us about your role as Commercial Director at DAC Group and what your main priorities are in driving the company’s commercial strategy?
SAEED HIJJAWI: My main responsibility as Commercial Director at DAC Group is to oversee revenue generation activities including business development, client relationships, pricing strategy, and market expansion. Additionally, I ensure our commercial strategies are aligned with company growth objectives to position DAC Group as a market leader.
SAUDI PROJECTS: What are some of the key factors you consider when setting strategic goals to ensure the company achieves sustainable growth?
SAEED HIJJAWI: I always take a holistic and data-driven approach. Key factors include competition in the target market, internal resources, profitability, market trends, and regulatory compliance.
SAUDI PROJECTS: You lead the business development team—how do you identify new opportunities and position DAC Group to capitalize on them in a highly competitive market?
SAEED HIJJAWI: It starts with understanding the market and customer needs. I work closely with the BD team to monitor market trends, new technologies, and regulatory changes. Once an opportunity is identified, we evaluate it based on profitability, scalability, and alignment with strategic objectives.
We differentiate ourselves as a value-added solutions provider, which strengthens client relationships and trust.
SAUDI PROJECTS: How do you balance short-term financial targets with long-term business success, especially in the context of Saudi Arabia’s rapidly evolving construction landscape?
SAEED HIJJAWI: In a dynamic market like Saudi Arabia, it’s crucial to have a clear strategic roadmap while remaining agile. Short-term goals often focus on cash flow and margin optimization, while long-term investments include strategic partnerships, high-tech equipment, and workforce upskilling.
SAUDI PROJECTS: What role does commercial foresight play in shaping the group’s project portfolio and client engagement strategy?
SAEED HIJJAWI: Commercial foresight is about being proactive rather than reactive. We anticipate market dynamics and trends—such as Vision 2030 initiatives—to guide our portfolio and client engagement. This ensures our growth is timely and aligned with national priorities.
SAUDI PROJECTS: In terms of revenue growth, what strategies have proven most effective for DAC Group, and how do you plan to build on them?
SAEED HIJJAWI: Our growth strategies are built on:
- Providing value-added services
- Operational excellence and differentiation
- Strategic client targeting
- Alignment with Vision 2030
We are expanding into high-potential regions and mega projects, particularly in PIF and industrial sectors. Additionally, investing in new technologies and forming joint ventures with both international and local partners enhances our competitive edge.
SAUDI PROJECTS: The Vision 2030 initiative is transforming the Kingdom’s infrastructure sector—how is DAC Group aligning its commercial strategy to support these national objectives?
SAEED HIJJAWI: Aligning our commercial strategy with Vision 2030 is central to our growth. We’ve redirected BD efforts toward mega projects and invested in local talent, supply chain development, and value-driven partnerships within the Kingdom.
SAUDI PROJECTS: What are some of the biggest challenges you face in your role, and how do you approach overcoming them?
SAEED HIJJAWI: One of the biggest challenges is staying competitive in a fast-evolving market. We overcome this by building a high-intelligence BD team that ensures DAC Group is engaged in pre-tender stages through strong relationships, insights, and proactive stakeholder engagement. We aim to shape opportunities rather than just respond to them.
SAUDI PROJECTS: How do you measure success—both personally and professionally—when it comes to the commercial performance of the group?
SAEED HIJJAWI: Success, to me, is about long-term value creation and sustainable growth. I use KPIs such as revenue growth, gross margin improvements, conversion rates, and client retention. If DAC Group is seen as a partner of choice by clients and consistently delivers value, that is true success.
SAUDI PROJECTS: Finally, what advice would you give to aspiring commercial leaders looking to make an impact in Saudi Arabia’s construction industry?
SAEED HIJJAWI: Lead with agility and understand the broader landscape. Success isn’t just about pricing or proposals—it’s built on trust, long-term engagement, and cultural understanding. Build local relationships, be credible, stay adaptable, and remain strategic.
With a sharp eye on market trends and a firm grip on strategic planning, Saeed Hijjawi continues to position DAC Group as a dynamic and forward-thinking force in Saudi Arabia’s construction sector. His commitment to aligning business objectives with national development goals highlights the value of visionary leadership in today’s competitive market. As the Kingdom’s construction industry enters a new era, Saeed’s commercial acumen will no doubt remain central to DAC Group’s continued success.
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