Emerging Markets Lead – Central Asia (Russian Speaking)

About the role

Column is looking for an Emerging Markets Lead to drive the launch of a new banking product across Central Asia and Eastern Europe. Based in Dubai, the role combines market entry strategy, business development and partnership management, with regular travel throughout the region and quarterly trips to the headquarters in San Francisco.

Key responsibilities

• Identify, evaluate and secure high‑value partnerships with banks and fintechs in target markets.
• Lead end‑to‑end deal processes, coordinating with legal, compliance and product teams to close contracts.
• Build and nurture relationships with prospective and existing customers through in‑person meetings and industry events.
• Gather market intelligence, assess regulatory environments and provide strategic recommendations for regional expansion.
• Represent Column at regional conferences and act as the primary point of contact for partnership development.

Required profile

• Proven experience in international business development or market entry, preferably within financial services or fintech.
• Strong network in Central Asia and Eastern Europe and fluency in Russian.
• Excellent negotiation and relationship‑building skills with a track record of closing complex deals.
• Willingness to travel extensively across the region.

Required skills