Executive Director

About the Company

A newly established virtual asset exchange headquartered in Dubai is currently in the process of obtaining a license from the Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (VARA). The company aims to build a secure, compliant, and scalable institutional-grade digital asset trading platform serving regional and global markets.

Key Responsibilities

• Execute the Board-approved strategy and operating model.
• Lead the VARA licensing process and manage ongoing regulatory engagement.
• Ensure full compliance with UAE laws, VARA regulations, AML/CFT, and governance frameworks.
• Oversee day-to-day operations across compliance, risk, finance, technology, and product.
• Hold full P&L responsibility, including revenue growth and cost management.
• Develop strategic partnerships with banks, institutional clients, liquidity providers, and payment partners.
• Act as the primary interface with the Board, regulators, and key stakeholders.
• Build and lead a high-performing leadership team aligned with fit-and-proper standards.

Qualifications

• 10+ years of experience in financial services, fintech, or crypto exchanges.
• 5+ years in senior leadership roles (CEO, COO, Executive Director, or equivalent).
• Strong understanding of crypto trading, blockchain ecosystems, and digital asset regulations.
• Direct experience with regulatory licensing and governance frameworks.
• Proven operational leadership, risk management, and stakeholder engagement skills.
• UAE residence visa and work authorization.

Preferred: Experience with VARA/ADGM or similar regulatory regimes, UAE/GCC market exposure, and professional certifications (CFA, CPA, CAMS).