Chief of Staff and Head of Governance

The Chief of Staff & Head of Governance is a pivotal leadership role that shapes, orchestrates, and safeguards the entire Retail Banking Group’s (RBG) strategic and governance agenda. This position exists to drive execution of RBG’s most important priorities while ensuring a world-class governance environment that meets regulatory expectations and strengthens organisational discipline. Serving as the strategic partner to the Head of RBG, this role enables enterprise-wide alignment, informed decision-making, and seamless collaboration across all segments, functions, and markets. It is a central, high-impact role that directly influences performance, risk culture, strategic delivery, and the long-term success of the Retail Bank.

Key Responsibilities:

• Translate the Group and RBG strategy into clear programmes, milestones, and measurable outcomes.
• Drive seamless execution across retail segments, product lines, digital squads, ecosystem partners, and new geographic markets.
• Ensure alignment between business, technology, finance, risk, operations, and Group teams on all major initiatives.
• Act as the strategic right hand to the Head of RBG, enabling focus, clarity, and effective leadership.
• Oversee RBG performance dashboards, KPIs, and delivery of critical metrics.
• Lead and continuously strengthen the RBG governance ecosystem in line with CBUAE rulebooks.

Decision Making Authority & Responsibility:

• Works in close partnership with Group functions while maintaining objective and independent judgement.
• Authority to shape the governance agenda for RBG and enforce compliance with frameworks and regulatory standards.
• Responsible for preparation and quality assurance of all decisions presented at ExCo, Board Committees, governance councils, and regulatory engagements.

Knowledge, Skills and Experience:
Knowledge:

• Deep understanding of retail banking, digital banking, governance ecosystems, risk frameworks, and regulatory standards.
• Working knowledge of data governance, AI governance, technology enablement, and emerging digital market models.
  Skills:
• Exceptional leadership presence and ability to influence at senior levels.
• Outstanding communication, executive writing, and storytelling skills.
• High emotional intelligence, judgement, and political acumen.
  Experience:
• 12–18 years in banking or financial services with strong exposure to governance, strategy, transformation, or COO/Chief of Staff responsibilities.
• Proven track record of leading cross-functional programs or enterprise governance initiatives.