Managing Director

Role: Managing Director – UAE

Location: UAE

Sector: Crypto Exchange / Fintech

About the Role:

We represent a rapidly expanding US-based Crypto Exchange seeking a dynamic and adaptable Managing Director UAE to lead its regional growth strategy. This role is ideal for a commercially driven leader with a growth mindset, capable of navigating the fast-evolving Web3 and financial markets landscape.

The selected candidate will play a pivotal role in establishing the company’s regional presence, shaping key operational strategies, and ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements, including ongoing licensing processes.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead regional market expansion in alignment with the company’s 3-year growth strategy.
• Oversee the evolution of P&L and headcount growth, adjusting to market response.
• Drive regulation licensing efforts, including vendor selection, key hires, and board appointments.
• Determine and establish the UAE office location.
• Develop commercial and operational strategies to scale the business.
• Provide hands-on leadership, balancing strategic oversight with day-to-day execution.
• Build and manage a high-performing team, build a flexible and non-corporate culture.
• Maintain agility in navigating a rapidly changing financial and regulatory landscape.

Required Experience & Skills:

Technical & Industry Knowledge:

• Strong familiarity with financial assets and blockchain technology.
• Background in DeFi and TradFi (Decentralized & Traditional Finance).
• Experience with traditional trading platforms (FX, equities, etc.) is a plus.
• Web3/crypto experience is preferred but not mandatory.
• Experience with the regional regulations, especially those from UAE.

Leadership & Commercial Expertise:

• Proven track record in commercial leadership and business growth.
• Experience in building organizational structures, managing P&L, and people management.
• Operational experience, including strategic decision-making and execution.
• Comfortable working in startup and high-growth environments.

Personality & Cultural Fit:

• Adaptable, humble, and open-minded.
• Entrepreneurial self-starter who thrives in unstructured environments.
• Comfortable with uncertainty, risk, and rapid change.
• Hands-on leadership approach with a strong execution focus.