Head of Credit Administration - Emiratization

We are currently conducting a confidential executive search for an experienced Head of Credit Administration on behalf of a well-established local bank in the UAE.Reporting directly to the Chief Risk Officer, the role will lead the Credit Administration function, with a strong focus on governance, controls, operational excellence, and transformation.Key ResponsibilitiesLead the Credit Administration strategy in alignment with the Bank's risk appetite, credit policies, and regulatory requirements.Oversee end-to-end Credit Administration, credit limits, documentation, and collateral management across Corporate, Commercial, International, Treasury, and Retail portfolios.Strengthen portfolio-level monitoring of credit limits, documentation, collateral, and key control mechanisms.Ensure adherence to approved credit sanctions and maintain robust credit control standards.Partner with Risk, Credit, Business, and Legal teams to strengthen governance and credit controls.Drive digital transformation, automation, and process re-engineering across Credit Administration.Lead the implementation of limits and collateral management systems, including data migration, validation, reconciliation, and UAT.Manage regulatory, audit, and governance requirements, including remediation of internal and external audit findings.Identify control gaps and implement effective risk mitigation and remediation strategies.Lead cross-functional initiatives to improve operational efficiency and strengthen the overall Credit Administration framework.Build a strong risk-aware culture and lead, develop, and mentor the Credit Administration team.Ideal Candidate15+ years of experience in Credit Administration, including significant leadership experience heading a CAD function.Strong expertise in credit documentation, limits, collateral, portfolio monitoring, and credit controls.Proven track record in banking transformation, automation, and process improvement.Strong exposure to regulatory, audit, risk, and governance frameworks.Bachelor's or Master's degree from a recognised international institution.Excellent English communication and stakeholder management skills.UAE National Preferred