Programme Director

Job Title: Programme Director Location: United Arab Emirates / Abu Dhabi OR Dubai Salary/Rate: Negotiable Start Date: 14/07/2025Job Type: Initial 6 Month Contract Company Introduction We have an exciting opportunity now available with one of our sector-leading consultancy clients! They are currently looking for a skilled Programme Director. Background Our client has initiated a strategic project developing a pension product in partnership with a new client in the United Arab Emirates. A base solution has been deployed to support the initial launch, and the next phase involves developing the product further from both a propositional perspective and in terms of the required system and back-office processes. This engagement represents a critical step in their broader strategy to secure additional clients across the wider regional market and significantly grow our local presence in the United Arab Emirates. The UAE offers a sophisticated financial services landscape and strong regulatory foundations. Through successful delivery and partnership on this initiative, they aim to demonstrate its commitment to the region, build long-term strategic relationships, and expand its portfolio of financial services solutions tailored to local market needs. Establishing a stronger local footprint will support future growth, enable faster and more responsive service to clients, and position them as a trusted partner in delivering innovative pension and investment solutions in the region. Job Responsibilities/Objectives You will be responsible to to ensure the successful delivery of the solution by incorporating regional and product-specific expertise. This involves: Enhancing communication and collaboration between our client and their client. Addressing region-specific considerations. Strengthening project management and analytical support to align with the client's needs and expectations. Providing executive oversight and strategic direction to ensure delivery aligns with business goals. Collaborate with the existing project team to provide localised expertise. Ensure compliance with regional financial, tax, and regulatory requirements. Establish and maintain clear communication channels between our client and their client. Support the design, development, and delivery of the enhanced solution, addressing both system and back-office process needs. Provide executive program oversight and governance to ensure alignment with strategic goals and timely resolution of risks and issues. Required Skills and Experience Senior leadership experience in delivering complex financial services programs across multiple stakeholders. Proven track record of managing high-value strategic partnerships in the Middle East, especially within financial services and pensions. Ability to shape strategic direction, manage executive stakeholder relationships, and ensure delivery aligns with long-term business objectives. Deep understanding of UAE regulatory, financial, and operational landscapes. Fluency in Arabic is essential to facilitate senior-level communication, navigate regional business culture, and support relationship management with key stakeholders. Strong leadership and governance experience to oversee delivery across internal and client teams. If you are interested in this opportunity, please apply now with your updated CV in Microsoft Word/PDF format.Disclaimer Notwithstanding any guidelines given to level of experience sought, we will consider candidates from outside this range if they can demonstrate the necessary competencies.Square One is acting as both an employment agency and an employment business, and is an equal opportunities recruitment business. Square One embraces diversity and will treat everyone equally. Please see our website for our full diversity statement.