Black & Grey HR is Hiring for a well\-capitalised Middle East\-facing investment platform to appoint a hands\-on CEO (SEO) to lead a newly formed asset management division. The entity holds pre\-approval for a CAT\-3C licence in DIFC and is seeking an operator\-leader who can raise institutional capital, launch and manage funds, and build a best\-in\-class investment platform.
This is a high\-visibility, founder\-adjacent role â ideal for a rainmaker who combines fundraising muscle with fund management, governance and operational delivery.
Key responsibilities
\- Lead the asset management business: strategy, P&L accountability, product roadmap and go\-to\-market.
\- Raise seed and anchor capital (initial target USD 50â100M in year one) and scale AUM thereafter.
\- Structure, launch and manage collective investment funds under DIFC/DFSA regulatory regime (CAT\-3C).
\- Build and lead the investment team â portfolio managers, analysts, operations, and investor relations.
\- Direct investor relations and fundraising: pitch LPs, family offices, institutional investors and anchor partners.
\- Oversee governance, reporting and board/ shareholder engagement â prepare IC materials, board packs and investor updates.
\- Ensure regulatory, compliance and AML frameworks are fit for purpose; liaise with DIFC/DFSA and external counsel/auditors.
\- Establish robust risk management, valuation, and portfolio governance practices.
\- Drive distribution partnerships and strategic alliances across GCC, UK and South Asia as relevant.
\- Act as the public face of the platform for investor meetings, conferences and key stakeholder forums.
Requirements
\- 12+ years senior experience in asset/fund management, private markets or institutional asset raising.
\- Proven track record of raising institutional capital (demonstrable evidence of fundraising; preferably cumulative >USD 50M across deals / funds).
\- Prior experience operating in DIFC / DFSA regulated environment (fund registration, DFSA processes, DIFC commercially).
\- Experience as MD / Head / CEO / CIO / Partner or similar at top asset managers, private equity firms, or placement agents.
\- Strong existing LP network across GCC family offices, institutional investors and fund\-of\-funds.
\- Hands\-on operator â comfortable with both fundraising and day\-to\-day fund management / operations.
\- Deep understanding of fund governance, investor reporting, and board engagement.
\- Excellent stakeholder & people management skills; credible public speaker.
\- Direct experience with CAT\-3C licences or with launching funds under DIFC/ADGM regulatory frameworks.
\- Excellent written and spoken English. Arabic or regional language skills are a plus.
