This list contains only the countries for which job offers have been published in the selected language (e.g., in the French version, only job offers written in French are displayed, and in the English version, only those in English).
We are seeking a Strategic Initiatives Manager to help drive the bank’s “Build the Bank” transformation across Asia Pacific and the Middle East. This role sits at the intersection of payments innovation, fintech partnerships, and regulatory engagement, supporting the development of next-generation payment capabilities and digital financial infrastructure across the region. The successful candidate will work closely with internal stakeholders, fintech partners, and regulators to launch innovative solutions, support market expansion, and strengthen the bank’s leadership in the evolving payments ecosystem.
Job Responsibility:
Develop strategic partnerships with fintech firms, payment networks, and partner banks across APAC and the Middle East
Lead the development and launch of innovative payments and cash management solutions aligned with client needs and regulatory requirements
Engage with central banks and regulators on digital payments initiatives, including real-time payments and emerging infrastructure
Support market entry and expansion strategies across priority markets in APAC and the Middle East
Collaborate with internal teams across Technology, Risk, Compliance, Legal, and Operations to deliver strategic initiatives
Requirements:
Extensive experience in payments, fintech, product management, or financial services, typically with 15+ years in relevant roles
Demonstrated track record delivering payments or fintech solutions at scale, ideally across multiple international markets
Strong understanding of payments infrastructure, including real-time payments, instant payment systems, SWIFT, card networks, and API-based ecosystems
Experience developing strategic partnerships with fintech companies, payment providers, or financial institutions
Ability to develop business cases and commercial frameworks for new products, partnerships, and market expansion
Experience engaging with regulators or central banks, including regulatory sandbox programs or innovation initiatives
Strong stakeholder management skills with the ability to work effectively across Technology, Risk, Compliance, Legal, Operations, and Business teams
Excellent strategic thinking, analytical capability, and problem-solving skills
Strong communication and influencing skills with the ability to present to senior leadership and executive stakeholders
Ability to operate effectively in complex, multi-market environments across APAC and the Middle East
Fluency in English (written and spoken) is essential
Nice to have:
Experience launching payments or cash management products within corporate or transaction banking environments
Knowledge of emerging payment technologies including CBDCs, blockchain, distributed ledger technology, and open banking frameworks
Experience working directly with central banks or regulatory bodies on payment infrastructure initiatives
Familiarity with cross-border payments, treasury services, or corporate banking solutions
Experience establishing or managing payments networks or ecosystem partnerships
Understanding of ERP and treasury platforms, API integration, and digital channel technologies
Experience supporting market entry or expansion strategies across APAC or Middle East markets
MBA or postgraduate degree in Business, Finance, Engineering, or a related discipline
Additional language skills, particularly Arabic, are advantageous