Job Description
Head of Network Development
Location: Hybrid, Home working, Slough & Regional Travel
This role sits at the heart of an exciting new venture between Jameel Motors and GAC, established to introduce the AION range of intelligent electric vehicles to the UK market.
As part of the team, you will help establish and grow AION Auto UK combining GAC’s cutting-edge EV innovation with Jameel Motors’ deep automotive expertise to deliver a new benchmark in electric mobility.
This is more than a position in a new company; it’s an opportunity to be part of a defining moment in the UK’s transition to intelligent, sustainable mobility.
Find out more and follow us on AION Auto UK’s LinkedIn page.
About the Role
As Head of Network Development, you’ll play a pivotal role in building AION’s UK retail network during its early‑stage growth phase. You’ll join with a strategic foundation already in place, but with the autonomy to shape and evolve it as the network grow, helping take the business from early market entry to a scalable national footprint.
You’ll lead the development of strong, sustainable partnerships that form the backbone of AION’s UK retail presence.
Key Responsibilities
* Own and deliver the UK retail partner representation plan to support network expansion.
* Identify, engage, and secure strong retail partners to join AION’s network.
* Lead negotiations of franchise agreements and ensure all regulatory and compliance standards are met.
* Oversee the full appointment and onboarding lifecycle for new partners, from approval through to turn‑key launch.
* Maintain and enhance partner standards, documentation, and network governance frameworks.
* Work closely with Network Operations to monitor partner performance and drive continuous improvement.
* Create robust, commercially aligned plans for both new and existing retail partners.
* Lead quarterly representation reviews to track progress against network development objectives.
* Act as a senior connector between retail partners and internal leadership teams.
Skills & Experience
* Extensive automotive experience, ideally in Network Planning and Development, Channel Development, or a senior Regional/National Manager role.
* An existing strong and influential network within automotive retail, with the ability to open doors, accelerate partnership conversations, and build trust quickly at senior levels.
* Deep understanding of franchising, retailer standards, and OEM/distributor requirements.
* Excellent stakeholder management, with the ability to influence at senior and board level.
* Proven experience managing complex onboarding, development, or site‑launch projects.
* It would be advantageous to have direct experience in franchising within an OEM, importer, or distributor environment.
* Desirable to have worked in a start‑up or fast‑scaling organisation.
What We Offer
* Join the launch of a major new automotive brand in the UK
* Help shape the future of sustainable mobility in the UK
* Competitive compensation package, including life assurance, health cover and a salary sacrifice pension scheme
* Hybrid working model
* Health and wellbeing support through our partnership with the automotive charity BEN.