Head of Private Banking

We are supporting a leading financial institution in Saudi Arabia in the appointment of a Head of Private Banking.The successful candidate will be responsible for leading and developing the Private Banking business, driving client acquisition and revenue growth, strengthening relationships with High-Net-Worth and Ultra-High-Net-Worth clients, and building a high-performing private banking team.This is a strategic leadership role requiring a strong combination of commercial leadership, client relationships, investment and wealth management knowledge, team leadership, and business development capabilities.Key ResponsibilitiesPrivate Banking LeadershipLead the overall Private Banking business and define its commercial and strategic direction.Develop and execute the Private Banking growth strategy in line with the institution's objectives.Establish and deliver ambitious revenue, AUM and client acquisition targets.Develop the Private Banking proposition, products and client service model.Identify opportunities to expand the business across key markets and client segments.Client Acquisition & Relationship ManagementDevelop and maintain strong relationships with HNW and UHNW clients.Personally lead the acquisition and onboarding of key strategic clients.Expand existing client relationships through comprehensive wealth management solutions.Identify opportunities for cross-selling investment, financing, treasury and other financial solutions.Develop a strong pipeline of prospective clients and convert opportunities into long-term relationships.Team LeadershipLead, develop and motivate a high-performing Private Banking team.Recruit and retain experienced Relationship Managers and senior private bankers.Establish clear performance objectives, KPIs and accountability across the team.Build a collaborative, client-focused and performance-driven culture.Where appropriate, leverage an existing network of experienced private bankers and relationship teams to accelerate business growth.Wealth & Investment SolutionsWork closely with Investment Management, Asset Management, Treasury and other specialist teams to deliver tailored solutions to clients.Ensure clients receive appropriate investment and wealth planning solutions based on their objectives, risk profiles and requirements.Support the development of investment and wealth management propositions for HNW and UHNW clients.Maintain strong understanding of local and international investment markets and wealth management trends.Business DevelopmentBuild strategic relationships with entrepreneurs, family businesses, corporate executives, family offices and other HNW/UHNW prospects.Develop referral and strategic partnership channels to generate new business.Represent the institution at relevant industry, investment and client events.Monitor market developments and competitor activity to identify new business opportunities.Risk, Compliance & GovernanceEnsure Private Banking activities operate within applicable regulatory, compliance and risk frameworks.Maintain high standards of client due diligence, suitability and KYC/AML requirements.Ensure appropriate risk management and governance across the Private Banking business.Work closely with Compliance, Risk and Legal teams on client and business matters.Candidate Profile15+ years of experience in Private Banking, Wealth Management or a closely related financial services environment.Significant leadership experience managing a Private Banking or Wealth Management business.Strong and demonstrable HNW/UHNW client network in Saudi Arabia and/or the GCC.Proven track record of acquiring clients and growing AUM and revenues.Strong understanding of investment products, wealth management and financial markets.Demonstrated ability to recruit, lead and develop high-performing Private Banking teams.Strong commercial and entrepreneurial mindset.Excellent relationship management and business development capabilities.Strong understanding of Saudi/GCC banking and regulatory environment.Ability to engage confidently with senior executives, entrepreneurs, family offices and UHNW individuals.Strong leadership, negotiation and communication skills.Excellent English; Arabic is highly preferred.Bachelor's degree in Finance, Economics, Business Administration or a related discipline. A relevant professional qualification such as CFA, CFP or equivalent is an advantage.Key Success MeasuresThe successful candidate will be expected to demonstrate measurable impact across:AUM growthNet new money / client acquisitionRevenue and profitability growthHNW/UHNW client acquisition and retentionQuality and depth of client relationshipsTeam recruitment and performancePrivate Banking market positioningCompliance, risk and client-service standards