Associate Director / Director Private Banking

About Organisation

Our partner organisation is an independent financial advisory firm based in the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC), regulated by the Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA). With a personalised three-tier approach, the firm designs tailored investment strategies aligned to each clients risk profile, return requirements, and life stage. The platform operates on an open-architecture model and offers a comprehensive suite of services, including advising on financial products, arranging investment deals, and arranging custody solutions.

Role Description

This is a full-time, on-site role for an Associate Director / Director – Private Banking, based in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. The role focuses on business relationship management, investment advisory services, portfolio management, and delivering high-quality private banking services to ultra-high-net-worth (U/HNW) clients.

Key Responsibilities

• Build, manage, and grow long-term relationships with U/HNW clients in Dubai and the wider region.
• Leverage an existing financial network and client relationships to onboard new-to-bank (NTB) clients and their families.
• Manage a focused portfolio of high wallet-share relationships, with a minimum account opening ticket size of USD 1MM.
• Position and key-sell the private banking platform and its open-architecture investment solutions.
• Collaborate closely with internal investment, product, and compliance teams to deliver a high-touch, differentiated client experience.
• Ensure full adherence to DFSA regulations and client onboarding compliance requirements.

The Successful Applicant

• 10+ years of experience in priority or private banking.
• Experience gained at reputable international private banks; candidates currently at local banks should have prior international private banking exposure.
• Proven track record managing a limited number of high-value relationships (typically fewer than 25 clients).
• Demonstrated AUM thresholds of:
  • USD 25M+ for Associate Director
  • USD 50M+ for Director

• Strong understanding of regional markets and regulatory frameworks for onboarding clients in the Middle East.

• Stable career trajectory over the past 5 years.
• Bachelor's degree (or higher) from a top-tier institution; MBA (Finance), CFA, or equivalent qualifications preferred.
• Entrepreneurial mindset, strong work ethic, and high personal integrity.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills

Qualifications

• Strong expertise in private banking, wealth management, and investment advisory.
• Proven capabilities in portfolio management and client relationship management.
• High level of analytical judgement and decision-making ability.
• Relevant professional certifications such as CFA, CFP, or equivalent, are an advantage.