Executive Director, Head of MENA, Real Estate Finance

Role Overview

Executive Director, Head of MENA, Real Estate Finance at First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB).

Role Purpose

Originate and execute real estate finance transactions for diverse clients across the UAE, GCC, and Turkey, while establishing a center of excellence in real estate financing, developing team talent, and driving strategic growth and innovation across FAB's footprint.

Key Responsibilities

Deal Origination & Execution

• Originate and execute real estate finance transactions for diverse clients, including IB&M, WBG, and PCG.
• Build strategic relationships with banks and real estate professionals to identify REF opportunities aligned with FAB's client and credit appetite.
• Review the existing CRE loan book and secure existing loans business through refinancing and restructuring.
• Collaborate with market leaders on transactions to enhance FAB's international profile.

Strategy & Leadership

• Provide senior leadership and strategic input to client and product development, innovating and ideating market-leading strategies.
• Build a platform for growth to support new business initiatives across FAB's footprint.
• Establish a center of excellence for real estate financing, fostering an environment of creative thinking and solutions.

Team & Talent Development

• Optimize and develop REF team talent, providing international experience to junior members.

Stakeholder & Internal Collaboration

• Partner closely with all bank departments to activate deal opportunities and harmonize communication.

Qualifications & Experience

• Degree in Finance, Accounting, Business, or a related discipline.
• 10+ years of experience in managing and facilitating real estate loans business in a banking environment.
• In-depth knowledge of the Real Estate sector and FAB's products and strategies.
• Deep understanding and working knowledge of international real estate debt markets and syndicated loans.
• Understanding of accounting and financial statements.

Skills & Competencies

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to understand financing structures based on market conditions.
• Multi-tasking skills with strong credit, structuring, and LMA documentation expertise.
• Solid negotiating skills and good judgment to balance client, investor, and FAB needs.
• Ability to work under pressure and adapt to changing priorities.