MENA COO & Finance Leader: Strategy, Growth & Ops

Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer; Dubai; On-site; AED 800,000 - 1,400,000; Full time

Job summary

Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer is seeking a strategic MENA COO & Director of Finance in Dubai to drive performance, finance, and operational excellence across the region. You will partner with the MENA Managing Partner and other leaders to optimize processes, governance, and risk management while supporting regional strategy and growth.

The role requires a seasoned leader with strong analytical and communication skills, capable of delivering data-driven insights and coordinating across offices,

Qualifications

• 10–15 years leadership in business operations, preferably at a major law firm.
• Proven ability to coordinate multiple business functions and develop teams.
• Experience with enterprise change management and organizational deployments.
• Strong financial, commercial acumen and strategic planning skills.
• Excellent interpersonal, presentation, and communication abilities with senior stakeholders.
• Undergraduate degree required; MBA or advanced degree preferred.

Responsibilities

• Lead strategic and operational leadership across the MENA region, aligning with global strategies.
• Drive transformation, modernization, and change management in business services and operations.
• Deliver concise financial analysis, reporting, and data-driven decision support for the region.
• Oversee governance, risk management, compliance, and regulatory obligations across offices.
• Manage real estate portfolio, cost controls, and shared services for efficiency.
• Collaborate with HR and leadership to ensure regional structure, resourcing, and talent development.

Skills

Leadership

Change management

Financial acumen

Strategic planning

Relationship building

Communication

Team mentoring

Education

MBA or advanced degree

Undergraduate degree

Job description

Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer is seeking a strategic MENA COO & Director of Finance in Dubai to drive performance, finance, and operational excellence across the region. You will partner with the MENA Managing Partner and other leaders to optimize processes, governance, and risk management while supporting regional strategy and growth.

The role requires a seasoned leader with strong analytical and communication skills, capable of delivering data-driven insights and coordinating across offices,