Investment Banking Director

About the OpportunityAn established investment bank is seeking an experienced M&A Director to join its growing Riyadh-based team. This is an opportunity for a senior investment banking professional to play a leading role in the development of the firm's M&A franchise in Saudi Arabia, combining client origination, transaction execution and senior stakeholder relationship management.The successful candidate will bring a strong track record of originating and executing M&A transactions, with the ability to develop new client relationships, identify strategic opportunities and lead complex mandates across a broad range of sectors.Candidates with experience in traditional investment banking advisory, as well as those who have originated transactions from a corporate or institutional balance sheet, will be considered. Professionals with EMEA market experience are particularly encouraged to apply.Key ResponsibilitiesLead the origination of M&A mandates, developing relationships with corporates, family groups, financial sponsors, sovereign-backed entities and other key stakeholders across Saudi Arabia and the wider region.Experienced with end-to-end execution of M&A transactions, including mergers, acquisitions, divestitures, joint ventures and strategic advisory mandates.Establish and maintain senior-level relationships with C-suite executives, board members, shareholders and key decision-makers.Provide strategic advice on corporate transactions, valuation, deal structuring, negotiations and transaction strategy.Contribute to the expansion of the firm's M&A franchise in Saudi Arabia, identifying new opportunities across sectors and supporting the development of its regional presence.Work alongside transaction teams, mentor junior bankers and work closely with senior management to deliver high-quality client outcomes.Leverage international experience and relationships to identify and execute cross-border opportunities, particularly across the EMEA region.Candidate RequirementsExtensive experience in M&A investment banking, corporate finance advisory or a closely related transaction-focused role.Demonstrable experience in both M&A origination and transaction execution, with the ability to independently develop and convert client relationships into mandates.A strong track record of leading complex transactions and managing senior client relationships.Sector-agnostic experience, with the ability to advise across multiple industries and identify opportunities beyond a single sector specialism.Experience gained within an investment bank, advisory boutique or relevant corporate or institutional environment. Candidates with a proven track record of originating transactions from a corporate or institutional balance sheet will also be considered.Previous experience covering EMEA markets, including Europe, the Middle East and/or Africa, is preferred.Arabic language skills are preferred but not essential.Existing relationships across Saudi Arabia or the wider Middle East are advantageous.