Head of Business Development - Middle EastA specialist global investment manager is seeking a Head of Business Development for the Middle East to lead institutional fundraising and strategic client engagement across the region.This is a senior leadership role with responsibility for driving capital raising, strengthening long-term institutional relationships, and expanding the firm's presence with sovereign wealth funds, pensions, insurers, endowments, and large family offices across the GCC.The role combines hands-on fundraising with regional strategy ownership, working closely with senior investment leadership and global distribution teams.Key Responsibilities
Lead institutional fundraising efforts across the Middle East for existing and future investment strategies
Originate and convert new institutional relationships while deepening existing partnershipsDevelop and execute a clear regional distribution strategy aligned with firm-wide objectives * Act as the primary senior point of contact for sovereign wealth funds, pension funds, insurers, and large family officesManage complex, long-cycle institutional sales processes, including RFPs, due diligence, and mandate negotiationsDeliver high-quality client presentations alongside portfolio managers and investment teams * Partner closely with investment teams to position strategies effectively for institutional audiencesProvide market intelligence and investor feedback to inform product development and fund structuringCollaborate with global distribution, marketing, and client service teams to ensure consistent messaging * Represent the firm at regional industry events, conferences, and investor forumsStrengthen the firm's institutional brand and long-term positioning across the Middle EastCandidate ProfileExtensive experience in institutional business development or fundraising within asset managementStrong network across Middle Eastern institutional investors, particularly within the GCCDeep understanding of public and/or private market investment strategies and institutional allocation processesProven ability to lead senior-level investor conversations and close large, complex mandatesEntrepreneurial mindset with the credibility to operate as a regional figurehead
