On-site | UAE | Crypto/Fintech | Senior Leadership | UAE Residence is a must
About the Opportunity
We are a recruitment partner supporting a fintech company in the final stages of launching a regulated cryptocurrency exchange in the UAE (SCA licence).
The company is building a fully compliant and scalable crypto platform designed to serve both retail and institutional clients under the UAE regulatory framework.
As part of the licensing process, they are assembling a core leadership team and are looking for a Chief Financial Officer / Finance Manager - a key role responsible for building the financial function, ensuring regulatory compliance, and supporting long-term business growth.
Why This Role Is Unique
- Build the finance function from scratch in a regulated crypto exchange.
- Work directly with the UAE regulator (SCA) as part of the licensing process.
- Join at an early stage with strong growth ambitions and market potential.
- High level of ownership across financial strategy and operations.
- Direct impact on business scaling, investor relations, and compliance.
What You Will Be Doing
Financial Strategy & Leadership
- Define and execute the company’s financial strategy in line with UAE regulations.
- Lead budgeting, forecasting, and financial planning across fiat and crypto operations.
- Support strategic decision-making, partnerships, and investor relations.
- Build and lead the finance team, establishing a culture of accountability and transparency.
Financial Operations & Reporting
- Build scalable financial infrastructure and processes from the ground up.
- Oversee accounting operations across fiat and digital assets.
- Ensure accurate and timely financial reporting in line with IFRS and UAE requirements.
- Maintain reconciliation between on-chain and off-chain transactions.
- Establish internal controls, reporting standards, and financial governance.
Regulatory & Compliance Oversight
- Act as the main financial point of contact with the SCA and other regulators.
- Ensure compliance with licensing requirements and financial regulations.
- Support audits, regulatory reviews, and reporting obligations.
- Work closely with Compliance on AML/CFT and financial controls.
Risk & Capital Management
- Develop frameworks for capital management, reserves, and financial stability.
- Monitor exposure to market, liquidity, and operational risks.
- Ensure proper segregation of client and company funds.
- Address risks related to crypto assets, including volatility and custody.
What We Are Looking For
- 10+ years of experience in finance (banking, fintech, or crypto).
- At least 3 years in a regulated financial institution or licensed environment.
- Strong understanding of UAE financial regulations and SCA requirements.
- Professional certification: CPA, ACCA, CFA (or equivalent).
- Deep knowledge of IFRS, financial reporting, and compliance frameworks.
- Solid understanding of crypto markets, blockchain, and digital asset accounting.
- Proven leadership experience and ability to build teams from scratch.
- Strong communication and stakeholder management skills.
- Fluent English (Arabic is a plus).
Nice to Have
- Experience working directly with SCA.
- Background in crypto exchanges or digital asset platforms.
- Experience with treasury and custody solutions (e.g., Fireblocks, Copper).
- Involvement in licensing or regulatory approval processes.
Location & Conditions
📍 Abu Dhabi, UAE - on-site role.
🏠 UAE residency required (or willingness to relocate).
💰 Competitive compensation, discussed individually.
Why Join Us
- Opportunity to build and lead the finance function from day one.
- Direct exposure to regulators and executive leadership.
- Join a high-growth crypto business entering a regulated market.
- Work in a fast-moving environment with real ownership and impact.
Please note: this role is subject to regulatory approval. Certain restrictions may apply based on regulatory requirements.