Marco Michael Schellinger

Commercial Executive | Enterprise Growth • Corporate Strategy • Market Expansion

Dubai, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

About

I am a commercial business leader with a proven track record of driving sustainable growth, strengthening market positioning, and unlocking strategic opportunities across international markets, including the Middle East and Europe. Having operated at executive level, I partner with organizations to refine commercial direction, optimize go-to-market strategies, and translate business priorities into measurable outcomes. My approach combines strategic perspective with pragmatic execution, shaped by deep experience in market expansion, strategic partnerships, and complex commercial environments. Known for a calm, results-oriented leadership style, I focus on initiatives that create long-term value, enhance competitiveness, and position businesses for the next stage of growth.

Experience

  • Commercial Development, Market Expansion & Strategic Partnerships at Independent
    Dec 2024 - Present · 1 yr 8 mos

    Advising travel and hospitality organizations including tour operators and destination management companies on establishing and expanding their presence in the Middle East through commercial development, market entry strategy, and strategic partnerships. Currently engaged with FRAM, a leading French tour operator, on Middle East expansion across product strategy, regional partnerships, and market positioning. Previously contributed to the commercial setup and market entry of Rocket DMC UAE, including early partnership development and commercial direction.

  • Caregiving at Career Break
    Dec 2023 - Nov 2024 · 1 yr

    Stepped away from executive responsibilities to support an immediate family member.

  • FTI GROUP (11 yrs 4 mos)
    • Head of Commercial
      Apr 2019 - Dec 2023 · 4 yrs 9 mos

      Appointed to lead commercial strategy and market expansion across high-growth Middle Eastern markets, owning revenue performance, strategic partnerships, and competitive positioning. Drove sustainable growth by optimizing go-to-market models, strengthening pricing strategies, and unlocking new business opportunities in dynamic market environments. Cultivated senior client and partner relationships, positioning the organization as a trusted industry partner while enhancing long-term profitability. Translated corporate objectives into actionable commercial initiatives, improving execution and organizational agility. Built and led a high-performing commercial team, fostering a results-driven culture and developing future leadership capability.

    • Key Account Manager
      Jun 2017 - Mar 2019 · 1 yr 10 mos

      Owned and developed strategic tour operator accounts, building long-term partnerships that generated consistent business growth and strengthened market presence. Ensured competitive positioning through continuous market analysis, pricing validation, and performance benchmarking. Collaborated closely with partners to deliver against commercial targets, aligning joint business plans with shared growth objectives. Enabled effective contracting and revenue planning by providing accurate forecasts and proactively mitigating commercial risks. Balanced partner success with organizational profitability while navigating complex commercial frameworks in a dynamic market environment.

    • Key Account Manager
      Feb 2015 - May 2017 · 2 yrs 4 mos

      Directed integrated B2B and B2C marketing initiatives in close partnership with sales teams, supporting commercial objectives and revenue growth. Led B2B digital marketing across multiple brands, ensuring consistent market positioning and brand messaging. Collaborated with travel agency partners and internal stakeholders to develop targeted marketing strategies and effective commission models. Executed multi-channel campaigns aligned with broader business priorities while strengthening partner engagement. Monitored industry trends and market developments to identify opportunities and support informed commercial decision-making.

  • Service (Gastronomy) at GVO Personal GmbH
    Jun 2011 - Aug 2012 · 1 yr 3 mos