Managing Director jobs in United Arab Emirates

We are seeking a seasoned General Manager with 18+ years of experience to lead our financial services company specializing in payment systems. The ideal candidate will bring a proven track record in financial services leadership (preferably with COO experience), strong knowledge of card-based payment systems, and the ability to drive both operational excellence and strategic growth.

This role is based in Abu Dhabi and requires a candidate with strong industry networks in the UAE and the wider MENA region.

• Develop and implement strategic plans to achieve the company’s long-term goals, focusing on growth in the payment systems and card acquiring domain.
• Ensure effective day-to-day operations of the company, including optimization of business processes, cost control, and operational efficiency.
• Oversee budgeting, financial planning, and performance analysis to achieve financial targets.
• Manage and expand the client portfolio, with a focus on financial institutions, regulators, and industry leaders. Build and maintain strong relationships with senior executives across the finance and payments industry.
• Ensure full compliance with financial services regulations, AML, PCI DSS, data protection, and privacy requirements.
• Lead domestic scheme initiatives, ensuring alignment with local and regional payment strategies.
• Oversee operations related to card networks (Visa, Mastercard, Amex, and domestic schemes), including fee structures, compliance, and partnership management.
• Drive digital transformation and innovation in payment technologies, including mobile wallets, contactless payments, APIs, and payment gateways.
• Provide strong leadership across senior management and operational teams; develop talent and maintain high-performance standards.
• Monitor and enhance acquiring systems, EMV technologies, and transaction security standards.
• Use data-driven approaches to analyze customer behaviors, optimize revenue streams, and support strategic decision-making.
• Lead and oversee major projects within the payment systems domain using structured project management methodologies.

• 18+ years of experience in financial services with a strong background in payment systems.
• Previous COO or equivalent senior operational leadership experience in the financial services sector.
• Proven success in strategic planning, execution, and operational management.
• Deep knowledge of domestic payment schemes, card network operations, and acquiring models.
• Strong understanding of regulatory frameworks (AML, PCI DSS, GDPR, local compliance requirements).
• Demonstrated experience in innovation, digital transformation, and technology management within financial services.
• Experience working directly with UAE Central Bank or other regional regulators will be considered a major advantage.
• Exceptional leadership, negotiation, and stakeholder management skills.
• The ability to project authority and build trust with senior banking executives and regulators.
• Advanced proficiency in English. Arabic language proficiency is a strong plus.
• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Finance, Economics, or related field; MBA preferred.
• Extensive experience in team leadership and organizational management, ensuring operational excellence and strong people development.