Chief Financial Officer

The next major crypto exchange is being built in Abu Dhabi. Tier-1 backing. IPO trajectory.Our client is building a cryptocurrency exchange in one of the world's most forward-thinking regulatory jurisdictions for digital assets. Currently in the process of obtaining a license from the Securities and Commodities Authority (SCA), they are building a platform designed to serve both retail and institutional clients — with security, transparency, and regulatory compliance at its core.The product is in active development — and now they are building the leadership layer that will take this company to market and beyond. The company is backed by top-tier investors with a proven track record in regulated financial markets and blockchain ecosystem.UAE Residence/Relocation is a must.Key ResponsibilitiesLeadership & Team DevelopmentBuild and lead the finance department from the scratch, fostering a culture of accountability and complianceCollaborate closely with internal cross-teams and external stakeholders to ensure financial integrity across all exchange functionsStrategic & Financial LeadershipDevelop and execute the company’s financial strategy in alignment with SCA and UAE federal financial regulationsManage budgeting, financial planning, forecasting, and reporting for both fiat and crypto operationsProvide strategic input on partnerships and investor relations, ensuring regulatory complianceFinancial Operations & ReportingBuilt scalable financial infrastructure to support rapid business growth, ensuring transparency, accuracy, and accountability across all financial operationsLed the establishment and development of the controllership function, including financial reporting, business intelligence, accounting policies, internal controls, and compliance frameworksOversee daily accounting across fiat and digital assetsEnsure timely submission of financial reports and disclosures as required by the SCA and other relevant authoritiesSupervise preparation of financial statements in accordance with IFRS and UAE Commercial Companies LawMaintain accurate reconciliation between on-chain and off-chain transactionsCompliance & Regulatory GovernanceAct as the principal financial contact with the SCAand other relevant UAE regulatorsSupport annual audits and regulatory inspections, ensuring transparency and full regulatory cooperationImplement and maintain financial controls, policies, and reporting standards that satisfy SCA licensing and audit requirementsCollaborate with the Compliance Officer to ensure AML/CFT procedures and recordkeeping comply with SCA and UAE Central Bank guidelinesDevelop and oversee frameworks for assets management, reserves, and capital adequacy in line with SCA directivesManage exposure to market, credit, and operational risks, with emphasis on crypto asset volatility and custody arrangementsMonitor segregation of client and company funds in accordance with regulatory mandatesQualificationsBachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Economics, or a related fieldProfessional certification required: CPA, ACCA, CFA, or equivalent (mandatory per SCA criteria)Minimum 10 years of relevant financial experience, with at least 3 years in a licensed financial institution, fintech, or crypto exchangeDemonstrated understanding of SCA regulations and UEA financial landscapeIn-depth knowledge of IFRS, AML/CFT frameworks, and risk-based capital managementStrong grasp of blockchain technologies, crypto market structure, and digital asset accounting practicesExcellent leadership, communication, and stakeholder management skillsFluency in English (Arabic is an advantage)Preferred ExperienceExperience working with SCAFamiliarity with crypto exchange financial operations, treasury systems (e.g., Fireblocks, Copper), and automated reconciliation toolsPrior involvement in obtaining or maintaining an SCA license for a financial or virtual asset service providerWhy JoinFounding-team status — Full ownership of the finance function from day one, with the authority to set the standard.Pre-IPO upside — Early entry on an IPO trajectory with equity participation aligned to your founding-member position.Abu Dhabi jurisdiction — One of the most sophisticated and crypto-forward regulatory frameworks in the world — and the ideal environment to build a regulated crypto exchange from the ground up.Direct founder access — No layers, no internal politics. Strategic partnership with decision‑makers from day one.Senior compensation + equity — Package structured to reflect your founding‑member status.