Business Development Manager – MENA

About This Role

Role Overview

We are seeking an experienced Business Development Manager to drive strategic partnerships and business expansion across MENA and CIS markets as a strong advantage.

The ideal candidate brings deep regional business resources, strong regulatory understanding, and the ability to independently lead complex financial and digital finance projects from origination to profitability.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and manage high-level business relationships across the Japan & Korea market, including but not limited to government-related entities, banks, OTC desks, financial institutions, and key ecosystem partners ;
• Maintain strong knowledge of local exchanges, card issuing, payment acquiring, and payment infrastructure , including market practices, business models, and compliance requirements;
• Leverage first-hand relationships and networks with local regulators and supervisory authorities to support compliant business development;
• Identify and activate local business channels and resources, such as:
• Principal Memberships with fiat card schemes,
• Licensed fiat on/off-ramp partners,
• Online and offline payment scenario channels;
• Analyze differences and compatibility between traditional finance and digital finance/Web3 , with a clear understanding of how they can coexist and integrate within the local market;
• Independently originate, structure, negotiate, and execute business initiatives — from concept design and partner alignment through project launch and revenue generation;
• Collaborate cross-functionally with internal teams (product, compliance, legal, operations) to ensure successful project delivery.

Requirements

• Proven business resources and partnerships within MENA or CIS markets is a strong plus
• Strong understanding of local financial regulations, compliance frameworks, and market-specific constraints ;
• Demonstrated access to or working relationships with regulatory bodies or licensed financial entities ;
• Minimum 6+ years of experience in financial services, payments, fintech, digital assets, or related industries;
• Prior experience starting from a sales or front-line business role is highly preferred;
• Strong logical thinking, communication, and negotiation skills, with the ability to operate independently and deliver measurable business results;
• High emotional intelligence, resilience, and ability to perform under pressure in fast-moving, cross-border environments;
• Highly proactive, self-aware, and results-oriented, with clear boundaries between professional responsibilities and personal matters;
• Bachelor’s degree or above from:
• A global Top 200 university, or
• China 985 / 211 institutions, or
• A Top 10 university in the candidate’s home country;
• Fluent in English ; additional languages are a plus;
• Willingness to travel frequently on short notice.