General Manager

Job Summary

We are seeking an experienced General Manager/ Non-UAE Markets to lead our fintech organization specializing in payment systems. This role is responsible for driving international business growth, with a focus on non-UAE markets, particularly across Africa. The ideal candidate will have 15+ years of experience in the financial services sector, with a proven ability to expand business operations globally, ensure operational excellence, and foster innovation in the payments industry.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership

• Define and execute strategic plans to achieve business objectives and drive international growth.
• Identify and leverage emerging trends and opportunities in global payment systems.

International Business Leadership

• Exclusively focus on managing and expanding operations in markets outside the UAE.
• Drive business development initiatives across Africa, building and maintaining strong relationships with local stakeholders and partners.
• Tailor strategies to address regional market dynamics and regulatory environments.

Operational Excellence

• Oversee day-to-day operations, ensuring efficiency and high-quality service delivery.
• Implement robust processes and controls to support sustainable growth in international markets.

Financial Performance

• Manage budgeting, forecasting, and financial analysis to meet revenue and profitability targets.
• Diversify revenue streams and optimize cost structures.

Client and Stakeholder Management

• Cultivate relationships with senior executives in the banking and finance industry.
• Expand the client portfolio and identify new business opportunities.
• Ensure client satisfaction and retention through innovative solutions and exceptional service.

Compliance and Risk Management

• Ensure adherence to international regulatory requirements, including GDPR, AML, and local compliance standards in Africa.
• Proactively manage compliance risks and maintain robust governance frameworks.

Innovation and Technology

• Lead digital transformation initiatives, leveraging emerging technologies such as blockchain and cryptocurrency.
• Oversee the implementation of cutting-edge solutions in payment systems, including EMV, PCI DSS, and APIs.

Team Leadership

• Inspire and lead a high-performing team, fostering a culture of collaboration, accountability, and innovation.
• Develop talent through mentorship, training, and succession planning.

Market Expansion

• Drive business development initiatives to increase market share in global geographies, with a primary focus on Africa.
• Develop and execute targeted marketing strategies to enhance brand visibility in international markets.

Key Qualifications

• 15+ years of progressive leadership experience in financial services and payment systems.
• Proven expertise in managing and expanding operations in global markets, with significant experience in Africa.
• Strong understanding of:

Payment technologies (POS systems, EMV, contactless payments, mobile wallets).

Card network operations (Visa, Mastercard, AMEX).

Regulatory frameworks (GDPR, AML, PCI DSS).

• Advanced skills in financial analysis, budgeting, and data-driven decision-making.
• Executive presence with strong negotiation, communication, and relationship-building skills.
• Bachelor's degree in Business, Finance, or Economics (MBA or advanced degree preferred).
• Fluency in English; proficiency in Arabic and French is an advantage.

Preferred Attributes

• Visionary leadership with a focus on innovation and digital transformation.
• Exceptional adaptability and resilience in a fast-paced, regulated environment.
• Deep cultural and market knowledge of African regions and their financial ecosystems.