Head of Operations (Dubai Branch)

Head of Operations (Dubai Branch)Role ObjectiveThe incumbent will be responsible for leading and overseeing all Branch Operations, Trade Finance Operations, Technology Services, Customer Service Support, Cash Management, Regulatory Compliance, Security & Safety Standards, Immigration-related activities, and administrative functions of the Dubai Branch. The role is accountable for ensuring efficient, secure, and compliant operational processes in line with Doha Bank policies, CBUAE regulations, and international banking standards. The job holder will provide strategic and operational leadership to optimize service delivery, enhance operational controls, drive technology-enabled efficiencies, and support business growth while maintaining the highest standards of risk management and customer experience. The incumbent will also ensure the effective management of Trade Finance operations, including Letters of Credit, Guarantees, Documentary Collections, and related transactions, while overseeing IT infrastructure, cybersecurity controls, digital transformation initiatives, and operational resilience.Key Roles and ResponsibilitiesStrategic Leadership & Branch OperationsProvide overall leadership and oversight of branch operational activities, ensuring efficiency, accuracy, regulatory compliance, and service excellence.Continuously monitor business, economic, regulatory, and competitive developments, providing recommendations and insights to senior management.Develop and implement operational strategies aligned with the Bank's business objectives and growth plans.Ensure operational policies and procedures remain compliant with regulatory requirements and industry best practices.Lead operational transformation initiatives to improve productivity, service quality, and cost efficiency.Drive operational excellence through continuous process improvement and automation initiatives.Regulatory Compliance & Risk ManagementEnsure full compliance with CBUAE regulations, AML/CFT requirements, KYC standards, FATCA, CRS, and other applicable regulatory requirements.Monitor regulatory changes and implement necessary operational, technology, and procedural amendments.Maintain a strong internal control environment and ensure adherence to audit recommendations.Oversee operational risk assessments and implement appropriate mitigation measures.Technology & Digital OperationsLead branch technology operations, ensuring optimal performance, availability, and security of IT systems and infrastructure.Oversee IT service delivery, incident management, problem resolution, and vendor management.Coordinate with Head Office Technology teams to implement technology upgrades and digital initiatives.Ensure cybersecurity controls, information security policies, and technology governance standards are effectively implemented.Monitor system performance and take proactive measures to minimize operational disruptions.Financial Control & ReconciliationOversee daily operational controls including: General Ledger reconciliationNostro account reconciliationSuspense account monitoringInternal account balancingCash and vault managementReview branch financial reports, operational MIS, and exception reports.People Management & LeadershipLead, develop, and mentor Operations, Trade Finance, Administration, Customer Service, and Technology teams.Assess organizational structure and workforce capabilities, recommending enhancements where required.Establish clear performance objectives and conduct regular performance reviews.Educational QualificationsBachelor's degree in business administration, Banking & Finance, Information Technology, Accounting, or related discipline from a recognized university.Preferred master's degree in Banking, Finance, Business Administration (MBA), Management, Information Technology, or a related field.ExperienceMinimum 15-20 years of banking experience, with significant exposure to: Branch Operations, Trade Finance Operations, Banking Technology, Operational Risk, Customer Service Management, Regulatory ComplianceMinimum 8-10 years in a senior management or leadership role.Strong understanding of UAE banking regulations and CBUAE requirements.Extensive experience in managing Trade Finance products and operations.Experience leading technology implementations, digital transformation, and process automation initiatives.Proven track record in managing large operational teams and complex banking environments.