Head of Middle East Distribution

Hanson Search is partnering with a leading international asset manager to appoint a Head of Middle East Distribution, based in the United Arab Emirates. This senior leadership role carries full responsibility for the firm s distribution strategy and client relationships across the Middle East. It works closely with global distribution teams alongside product and investment colleagues. About the Head of Middle East Distribution Role The firm manages a broad range of public and private markets strategies on behalf of institutional and wealth clients worldwide. These include equities, fixed income, multi-asset, alternatives and private markets. The Middle East is a key strategic priority for the firm. The Head of Middle East Distribution will lead the regional business and grow assets under management across institutional and wholesale channels. The role will also position the firm as a trusted long-term partner to the region s leading investors. Head of Middle East Distribution Responsibilities • Regional Leadership: Lead the firm s Middle East distribution business, setting the regional strategy and growth targets in line with the firm s global ambitions. There is a particular focus on the UAE and Saudi Arabia alongside the wider GCC. • Institutional Clients: Build and own senior relationships with sovereign wealth funds, government-related entities, pension funds, insurers, central banks and corporate investors. Win and grow mandates across the firm s strategies. • Wholesale and Wealth Channels: Expand partnerships with private banks, wealth managers, family offices, regional banks and platforms. Drive fund inflows and establish the firm on key distribution shelves and recommended lists. • Business Development: Originate and close new business across pooled funds and segregated mandates, managing a disciplined pipeline from initial engagement through to funding. Bespoke solutions also form part of this remit. • Product and Solutions: Work with product and investment teams, supported by legal, to tailor the offering to regional demand. This includes Sharia-compliant solutions and local fund structures, with private markets access products also part of the offering. • Client Service: Ensure an exceptional client experience, coordinating portfolio manager engagement and investment reviews, including reporting. Serve as the senior escalation point for key relationships. • Market Intelligence: Maintain a detailed understanding of regional allocation trends, client needs, competitor activity and regulatory developments. Share insight with global leadership to shape product and distribution strategy. • Brand and Representation: Act as the senior ambassador for the firm, representing it at client meetings and industry events while raising its profile across the Middle East. • Governance and Compliance: Ensure all regional distribution activity complies with applicable regulatory requirements, including DFSA, FSRA, SCA and Saudi CMA frameworks, and with the firm s internal policies. • Team Leadership: Build and lead a high-performing regional sales and client service team, setting clear objectives and creating a strong, collaborative culture across global offices. Asset Management Distribution Experience and Skills • Significant asset management distribution or client coverage experience, including senior responsibility for the Middle East. • A proven track record of raising assets and winning mandates from leading regional institutions and wealth channels. You will bring an established network across the GCC, particularly in the UAE and Saudi Arabia. • Broad knowledge of investment products across public and private markets, including fund structures and distribution models. • A strong understanding of the regional regulatory environment and client decision-making processes, with an appreciation of local business culture. • Experience leading teams and managing a regional business with clear commercial accountability. • Exceptional communication and presentation skills, with the negotiating ability and gravitas to engage chief investment officers and senior decision-makers. • A CFA qualification is advantageous, and Arabic language skills are highly desirable. • Willingness to be based full-time in the UAE and to travel extensively across the region and internationally. What s on Offer in the UAE This Head of Middle East Distribution role offers a highly competitive, tax-free compensation package. It also brings the opportunity to lead and grow the Middle East business of a respected international asset manager. Apply for This Head of Middle East Distribution Role To find out more about this Head of Middle East Distribution position, apply via the form below and a member of the Hanson Search team will be in touch. • Significant asset management distribution or client coverage experience, including senior responsibility for the Middle East. • A proven track record of raising assets and winning mandates from leading regional institutions and wealth channels. You will bring an established network across the GCC, particularly in the UAE and Saudi Arabia. • Broad knowledge of investment products across public and private markets, including fund structures and distribution models. • A strong understanding of the regional regulatory environment and client decision-making processes, with an appreciation of local business culture. • Experience leading teams and managing a regional business with clear commercial accountability. • Exceptional communication and presentation skills, with the negotiating ability and gravitas to engage chief investment officers and senior decision-makers. • A CFA qualification is advantageous, and Arabic language skills are highly desirable. • Willingness to be based full-time in the UAE and to travel extensively across the region and internationally.