Chief Executive Officer

Chief Executive Officer (CEO/SEO)

Location: Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC), United Arab Emirates

About the Role

We are seeking a highly qualified and dynamic Chief Executive Officer (CEO) to lead our newly established securities dealing firm in DIFC. The CEO will be responsible for driving the company's strategic direction, ensuring compliance with Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA) regulations, building client trust, and positioning the firm as a leading capital markets intermediary in the region.

The ideal candidate must demonstrate strong leadership, a proven track record in capital markets, and deep knowledge of regulatory frameworks within DIFC and international financial markets.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership: Develop and execute the overall business strategy within the DIFC framework. Drive business growth in securities dealing, brokerage, margin trading, and related services.

Regulatory & Licensing Oversight: Lead the license application process, ensuring full compliance with all regulatory requirements. Key contact point for laising with regulators and external consultants.

Operational Management: Oversee day-to-day operations across trading, settlement, risk management, and finance. Implement robust policies and internal controls in line with DFSA requirements. Oversee financial performance, budgeting, and capital adequacy.

Risk & Compliance Management: Work closely with the Head of Compliance to implement strong governance, AML/CFT policies, and risk management frameworks.

Business Development: Build strategic partnerships with exchanges, custodians, and institutional counterparties. Drive client acquisition and expand product offerings in securities trading, derivatives, and digital channels.

Financial & P&L Management: Drive profitability and sustainable growth by managing revenue streams, cost structures, and financial planning.

Technology & Innovation: Leverage fintech solutions to enhance trading services and improve market competitiveness.

Talent Acquisition & Team Building: Recruit and lead a high-performing team, fostering a culture of excellence and innovation.

Requirements:

• A minimum of 10 years of relevant experience in the brokerage industry, with at least 5 years in a senior management or leadership position.
• Proven track record as a CEO/SEO or senior executive within a DFSA, FSRA, SFC, MAS, FCA, or other Tier-1 regulated environment.
• Strong knowledge of capital markets, trading operations, and risk management. Strong regional and international market network.
• Experience in building and scaling brokerage operations, including trading platforms, client acquisition, and market expansion.
• Strong business acumen with a growth-oriented mindset and the ability to drive revenue generation.
• Excellent leadership, stakeholder management, and decision-making skills.