Client Services Director - Fund Services

Overview

OUR CLIENT offers expert fund administration, accounting, compliance, and governance solutions, with deep expertise in alternative assets. Comprehensive structuring, administration, governance, and regulatory support services empower businesses to scale and succeed globally.

Oversee the effective launch of the Fund Administration service line in the UAE, growth and management of an international team, ensuring a professional and comprehensive fund administration service delivery is provided to existing and prospective clients. There is also a Business Development angle to the role as the person will be required (in conjunction with the UAE leadership) to gather new clients in the UAE market and grow revenue.

• Overall ownership and responsibility for the Fund Administration Service Line and for a varied portfolio of clients through appropriate allocation of team members ensuring service excellence.
• Active participation with the wider Senior Management team, for the management of the division in all aspects such as financial performance and risk management.
• Manage performance against agreed targets and budgets, thus ensuring the division’s targets are achieved and the division’s KPIs are maintained.
• Advise and remain responsible for the complex aspects of a client’s portfolio and maintain knowledge of all fund clients, in order to nurture close working relationships with other employees of the Group.
• Develop, retain and enhance long term relationships with clients, their advisers, intermediaries and other introducers of work, maintaining a high level of client care.
• Grow client base by executing an excellent marketing strategy and strong business development initiatives.
• Ensure appropriate corporate governance in accordance with regulatory requirements while aligning to the Group’s overall aims, business plan and long‑term strategy.
• Deliver and integrate initiatives to promote the achievement of optimum operational, financial and business performance.
• Inspire and motivate the division and the wider Group to sustain the Group’s unique stakeholder culture.
• Develop, coach and mentor the Fund Administration team.
• Fulfil the function of “Client Director” or “Senior Client Director” on appropriate client entities.
• Act as an “A*” signatory (subject to approval by appropriate Board and Committee).
• Attend and lead client meetings and liaise with professional advisors to ensure the Group delivers both a proficient and value‑added service.
• Adhere to Risk & Compliance procedures in relation to regulatory requirements and AML legislation, leading on transfer agency matters in the UAE in coordination with other offices and departments as necessary.
• Be responsible for managing the risks associated with own portfolio of clients as well as those of the Group as a whole.
• Remain aware of the obligations for the reporting of unusual transactions and act as a guide to the division in this respect.
• Attend Exco/divisional meetings when required and contribute to board papers/reports as appropriate.
• Adhere to CPD requirements in accordance with qualification level and in‑house procedures.

• Excellent communication skills with first class native English as the primary language is an absolute essential.
• A qualified CA (preferred) with proven experience working within the financial services sector, specifically in the area of fund accounting, for a minimum period of 10 years.
• Proven management and leadership experience developed from previous roles.
• Relevant experience and understanding in alternative asset classes would be an advantage (Private Equity, Private Debt, Hedge Funds, Real Estate, etc.) with a particular focus on funds.
• Experience working closely with senior management internationally.
• Proven ability to build relationships through an established network. Prior experience of the GCC market is essential.
• A high level of technical ability is expected.

The Group is committed to fostering a healthy, inclusive organisation where all individuals feel welcome and able to participate fully in the workplace. We value different perspectives, backgrounds and lived experiences, and support employee wellbeing so that people feel equipped to thrive.