Requirements
Candidates must have 7-10+ years of experience in Wealth Management/Private Banking with a proven track record of managing, retaining, and growing portable client books (USD 20M–50M+ AUM). Strong understanding of wealth management products, investment solutions, and advisory models is essential, with prior exposure to EAM, Multi-Family Office, or independent advisory models being strongly preferred.
Description
Director / Associate Director – External Asset Management (Wealth Management)Location: Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC), UAEIndustry: Wealth Management / External Asset ManagementPosition OverviewOur client, a DIFC-based External Asset Management (EAM) platform, is seeking experienced Director and Associate Director-level Wealth Management professionals to expand its wealth management franchise.This is a strategic talent acquisition opportunity targeting seasoned bankers currently working within regional and international banks wealth management and private banking divisions.The ideal candidate will have a proven track record of managing, retaining, and growing a portable client book of HNW/UHNW relationships.This opportunity is designed for relationship managers who already have commercial ownership of their client portfolio and are looking to transition into a more independent platform with greater autonomy, ownership, and upside potential.Position level and compensation will be aligned with the candidate's AUM size, client relationships, track record, and ability to contribute to platform growth.Seniority RequirementsAssociate Director7–10 years of experience in Wealth Management / Private Banking within a regional or international bank.Proven experience managing a client portfolio with USD 20M–35M in portable AUM.Ability to independently manage and grow client relationships while contributing to the wider platform.Director10+ years of experience in Wealth Management / Private Banking.Demonstrated track record of standalone client ownership and commercial portfolio management.Proven ability to manage and retain USD 35M–50M+ in portable AUM.Potential to build and lead a team as the platform continues to grow.Key ResponsibilitiesManage and grow relationships with High-Net-Worth (HNW) and Ultra-High-Net-Worth (UHNW) clients.Develop trusted client relationships through a consultative and advisory-led wealth management approach.Drive new business acquisition and increase Assets Under Management (AUM).Provide tailored wealth management solutions aligned with client objectives and investment goals.Convert suitable client relationships into EAM-managed mandates while adhering to employment, non-solicitation, and regulatory obligations.Collaborate with investment, advisory, and operational teams to deliver comprehensive wealth solutions.Operate with a high degree of independence while contributing to the growth of the DIFC platform.Ideal Candidate ProfileCurrently working within a regional bank, international bank, private bank, or wealth management institution in a relationship management role.Proven ability to manage a client book with USD 20M–50M+ in AUM.Strong network of HNW/UHNW clients with credible and transferable relationships.Demonstrated client retention and AUM growth over the last 3–5 years.Strong understanding of wealth management products, investment solutions, and advisory models.Ability to demonstrate ownership of client relationships beyond institution-led mandates.Strongly Preferred ExperiencePrior exposure to External Asset Management (EAM), Multi-Family Office, or independent advisory models.Experience across discretionary portfolio management, advisory solutions, structured products, and alternative investments.Entrepreneurial mindset with experience managing a commercially driven client portfolio.Strong business development, negotiation, communication, and relationship management skills.Proven ability to operate independently and build long-term client partnerships.Opportunity HighlightsJoin a DIFC-based External Asset Management platform with an established institutional presence.Greater independence and ownership compared to traditional banking roles.Attractive incentive structure with meaningful upside linked to AUM growth and performance.Opportunity to build a long-term wealth management franchise.Clear career progression from Associate Director to Director based on portfolio growth and contribution.