Strategic Executive Officer

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 — 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 50–100M 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 — 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 — 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 — 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.

Benefits

• Attractive Salary + Benefits