Chief Financial Officer CFO Finance Manager - Crypto Exchange UAE Abu Dhabi

On-site | UAE | Crypto/Fintech | Senior Leadership | UAE Residence is a must

About the Opportunity

We are a recruitment partner supporting a fintech company in the final stages of launching a regulated cryptocurrency exchange in the UAE (SCA licence).

The company is building a fully compliant and scalable crypto platform designed to serve both retail and institutional clients under the UAE regulatory framework.

As part of the licensing process, they are assembling a core leadership team and are looking for a Chief Financial Officer / Finance Manager - a key role responsible for building the financial function, ensuring regulatory compliance, and supporting long-term business growth.

Why This Role Is Unique

• Build the finance function from scratch in a regulated crypto exchange.
• Work directly with the UAE regulator (SCA) as part of the licensing process.
• Join at an early stage with strong growth ambitions and market potential.
• High level of ownership across financial strategy and operations.
• Direct impact on business scaling, investor relations, and compliance.

What You Will Be Doing

Financial Strategy & Leadership

• Define and execute the company’s financial strategy in line with UAE regulations.
• Lead budgeting, forecasting, and financial planning across fiat and crypto operations.
• Support strategic decision-making, partnerships, and investor relations.
• Build and lead the finance team, establishing a culture of accountability and transparency.

Financial Operations & Reporting

• Build scalable financial infrastructure and processes from the ground up.
• Oversee accounting operations across fiat and digital assets.
• Ensure accurate and timely financial reporting in line with IFRS and UAE requirements.
• Maintain reconciliation between on-chain and off-chain transactions.
• Establish internal controls, reporting standards, and financial governance.

Regulatory & Compliance Oversight

• Act as the main financial point of contact with the SCA and other regulators.
• Ensure compliance with licensing requirements and financial regulations.
• Support audits, regulatory reviews, and reporting obligations.
• Work closely with Compliance on AML/CFT and financial controls.

Risk & Capital Management

• Develop frameworks for capital management, reserves, and financial stability.
• Monitor exposure to market, liquidity, and operational risks.
• Ensure proper segregation of client and company funds.
• Address risks related to crypto assets, including volatility and custody.

What We Are Looking For

• 10+ years of experience in finance (banking, fintech, or crypto).
• At least 3 years in a regulated financial institution or licensed environment.
• Strong understanding of UAE financial regulations and SCA requirements.
• Professional certification: CPA, ACCA, CFA (or equivalent).
• Deep knowledge of IFRS, financial reporting, and compliance frameworks.
• Solid understanding of crypto markets, blockchain, and digital asset accounting.
• Proven leadership experience and ability to build teams from scratch.
• Strong communication and stakeholder management skills.
• Fluent English (Arabic is a plus).

Nice to Have

• Experience working directly with SCA.
• Background in crypto exchanges or digital asset platforms.
• Experience with treasury and custody solutions (e.g., Fireblocks, Copper).
• Involvement in licensing or regulatory approval processes.

Location & Conditions

📍 Abu Dhabi, UAE - on-site role.

🏠 UAE residency required (or willingness to relocate).

💰 Competitive compensation, discussed individually.

Why Join Us

• Opportunity to build and lead the finance function from day one.
• Direct exposure to regulators and executive leadership.
• Join a high-growth crypto business entering a regulated market.
• Work in a fast-moving environment with real ownership and impact.

Please note: this role is subject to regulatory approval. Certain restrictions may apply based on regulatory requirements.