Engagement Manager (Arabic Speaker) - Financial Services Consulting

About the role

Cedar, a global management consulting firm focused on strategy, process, strategic human capital and technology with a strong presence in financial services, is looking for an Engagement Manager fluent in Arabic and English. The role sits at the heart of the financial services practice in Dubai and manages the day-to-day delivery of client engagements, leads workstreams and guides junior team members alongside Principal/Associate Director and Director-level colleagues.

Key responsibilities

• Manage the day-to-day delivery of consulting engagements, coordinating workstreams and keeping projects on time and on scope.
• Lead structured problem-solving exercises, develop analytical frameworks and turn findings into clear, client-ready outputs.
• Supervise and coach Consultants and Interns, giving real-time feedback and ensuring work quality.
• Prepare and deliver client presentations, reports and workshop materials to a high standard.
• Maintain regular contact with client counterparts and support senior stakeholder interactions alongside Directors.
• Identify emerging issues or risks in engagements and escalate them with proposed solutions.
• Contribute to knowledge management and internal initiatives as the practice grows.

Required profile

• 4-7 years of experience, including at least 3 years in management consulting in a financial services context.
• Fluency in Arabic and English is mandatory.
• Solid understanding of the financial services sector, with experience in banking, insurance, asset management or related areas.
• Experience managing junior team members and giving effective feedback.
• High attention to detail, intellectual curiosity and a drive for excellent work.
• Exposure to the GCC or broader Middle East market is advantageous; MBA or relevant postgraduate qualification preferred.

Required skills

• Strong project management skills, able to handle multiple workstreams and meet tight deadlines.
• Ability to structure and communicate complex analysis clearly in writing and in presentations.

What we offer

• A hands-on delivery role in the financial services practice in Dubai.
• Exposure to high-profile, complex engagements with leading regional institutions.
• A clear path to Principal / Associate Director for strong performers.
• A collaborative team with strong mentorship from senior leadership.
• Competitive compensation commensurate with experience.