Emerging Markets Lead – CIS (Russian Speaking)

About the role

Column is seeking an Emerging Markets Lead to drive 0‑to‑1 growth of a new banking product across the CIS and Eastern Europe. Based in Dubai, you will lead strategic expansion, build high‑value partnerships and shape the regional go‑to‑market strategy.

Key responsibilities

• Identify, evaluate and close high‑value partnerships with banks and fintechs in target markets.
• Serve as the primary relationship owner, conducting in‑person meetings and attending local industry events.
• Lead complex deal processes from outreach to contract signature, coordinating with Legal, Compliance and Product teams.
• Gather market intelligence on regulations, competition and customer needs to inform strategy.
• Develop scalable onboarding and relationship‑management processes for future expansion.

Required profile

• 6+ years experience in partnerships, business development, growth, operations or strategy.
• 4+ years of business experience specifically in CIS and Eastern European markets.
• Native fluency in Russian with a proven track record managing Russian‑speaking clients.
• Demonstrated success managing complex, high‑value deals with senior executives.
• Strong strategic thinking, market assessment and recommendation skills.
• Highly organized project management ability across multiple teams and priorities.
• Scrappy, hands‑on attitude with a collaborative, ego‑free approach.