Head of Integration & Banking Partnerships - Crypto Layer1 - Defi / TradFi

Location: UAE / EU

We are working with a pioneering digital finance business that is transforming the way Web3 and TradFi connect, delivering secure, scalable, and regulated products across global markets. With rapid expansion underway in both the UAE and EU, this company is seeking a visionary executive to lead banking partnerships and integrations at the highest level.

The Role

As Head of Integration & Banking Partnerships, you will take ownership of building and executing the strategy that underpins regulated payment systems, bank relationships, and partner integrations across multiple jurisdictions. Working closely with regulators, banks, card schemes, and internal teams, you will ensure successful delivery of core financial infrastructure at scale.

Key Objectives for the Head of Integration & Banking Partnerships

• Launch card programs and IBAN/SWIFT payment rails in the UAE and EU.
• Secure 3 regional bank partnerships and 10–15 EMIs, including BIN sponsorships.
• Achieve Visa/Mastercard Principal Membership accreditation.
• Drive liquidity to $200M+, 750K monthly active users, and an NPS score of 62–65.
• Deliver Proof-of-Reserves audit, PCI DSS & ISO 27001 certifications, and compliance with VARA/ADGM/MiCA frameworks.
• Lead the execution of large-scale programs with 100+ FTEs across technology, operations, compliance, and banking.

Responsibilities for the Head of Integration & Banking Partnerships

• Lead strategy, negotiations, and execution of partnerships with EMIs, processors, banks, and card networks.
• Manage integration rollouts for key payment systems, card programs, and liquidity partners across regions.
• Oversee the complete payment lifecycle, from issuance through to settlement.
• Establish governance and compliance structures aligned with international standards.
• Work cross-functionally with internal stakeholders to ensure seamless program delivery.
• Represent the business to regulators, banks, Visa/Mastercard, and auditors.
• Deliver on ambitious 12–18 month milestones and KPIs.

Candidate Profile

• 15+ years in payments, banking, or fintech, with senior leadership experience spanning multi-regional integrations.
• Comprehensive knowledge of Visa/Mastercard networks, issuer-processor relationships, EMI onboarding, and BIN sponsorships.
• Proven capabilities in compliance frameworks (PCI DSS, ISO 27001) and financial regulations (VARA, ADGM, MiCA).
• Track record of scaling liquidity, users, and regulated systems in dynamic markets.
• Strong leadership managing large, multi-disciplinary teams (100+ FTEs).
• Based in, or open to relocating to, the UAE or EU with in-depth understanding of regional regulatory requirements.

Package

• Highly competitive executive compensation, benchmarked against fintech and banking leadership roles in the UAE and EU.
• Performance-based incentives tied directly to delivery of milestones and KPIs.
• Relocation support where required.

If you are an accomplished leader in payments and banking partnerships, able to drive execution at scale while navigating complex regulatory landscapes, we would like to hear from you.