Vice President & Head of Program Lending

About the role

Lead the strategy and growth of a critical SME lending business within one of the UAE's leading banks.

Key responsibilities

• Define and execute the SME lending program strategy aligned with business growth objectives and risk appetite.
• Identify target SME segments and develop sector‑specific financing programs such as supplier finance, micro‑finance, and embedded lending solutions.
• Build strategic partnerships with anchor corporates, fintechs, government entities, and ecosystem partners.
• Partner with Credit, Risk, Data, Operations, and Technology teams to design underwriting frameworks and eligibility models.
• Drive digitisation of end‑to‑end lending journeys, integrating solutions into digital channels and ecosystem platforms.
• Own business targets, portfolio performance, asset quality, and risk‑adjusted returns, monitoring KPIs such as approval rates, turnaround times, disbursement volumes, delinquency levels, and recovery ratios.

Required profile

• Extensive experience in SME Banking, Business Banking, Commercial Lending, or program‑based finance.
• Proven track record in developing and scaling lending products, credit programs, or financing ecosystems.
• Strong commercial acumen with ability to drive growth while managing portfolio risk.
• Leadership experience managing high‑performing, cross‑functional teams.
• Deep understanding of credit risk management, regulatory frameworks, and governance requirements.
• Experience with digital transformation, fintech partnerships, or embedded finance environments is highly desirable.

What we offer

• Opportunity to shape innovative lending solutions that impact thousands of SMEs across the region.
• Work at the forefront of digital transformation, embedded finance, and next‑generation lending ecosystems.
• Collaboration with senior leaders and cross‑functional teams to drive meaningful business outcomes.
• Professional growth, leadership development, and clear career progression pathways.
• Competitive rewards, comprehensive benefits, and flexible wellbeing programs.