Role Overview
Lead the custody operations function for Saudi Arabia, ensuring secure and compliant handling of client securities across equities, Sukuk, ETFs, and fixed-income instruments. This position is central to maintaining regulatory alignment with the Capital Market Authority (CMA) and supporting the growth of a modern, scalable custody infrastructure in line with Saudi Vision 2030 financial reforms.
Key Responsibilities
- Manage daily custody workflows including trade settlement (T+2), asset transfers, and reconciliation for Saudi-listed securities
- Act as the main liaison with the Securities Depository Center (Edaa), Saudi Exchange (Tadawul), custodian banks, and clearing institutions
- Oversee corporate actions such as dividend distributions, rights offerings, stock splits, mergers, and Zatka-related events
- Design and refine operational procedures to improve efficiency, reduce risk, and support business expansion under CMA guidelines
- Collaborate with engineering and product teams to automate custody processes and minimize manual intervention
- Ensure strict compliance with CMA regulations, including asset segregation, AML requirements, and reporting obligations
- Represent the organization during regulatory audits and engagements with the CMA and other Saudi authorities
- Supervise, mentor, and develop a team of custody operations specialists
Qualifications
- Minimum of 7 years in securities custody, clearing, or brokerage operations, preferably within Saudi Arabia or the GCC
- Proven understanding of Edaa systems, Tadawul settlement cycles, and the full lifecycle of Saudi-traded instruments
- Thorough knowledge of CMA regulations, including Securities Business Regulations and client asset protection rules
- Experience with Sukuk, equities, ETFs, REITs, and government bonds listed on Saudi markets
- Strong problem-solving skills in reconciliation and settlement break resolution
- Fluency in both Arabic and English, with the ability to communicate effectively across technical and operational teams
- Track record of developing, documenting, and improving processes in regulated environments
- Prior leadership experience managing or coaching operations teams
Preferred Background
- CME-1 or other CMA-recognized professional certification
- Experience with Qualified Foreign Investor (QFI) programs or Swap arrangements on Tadawul
- Work history in fintech, startups, or CMA-authorized financial institutions
- Exposure to API-driven platforms or automation tools in custody operations
- Understanding of digital asset custody or blockchain-based securities
- Familiarity with Saudi Vision 2030 financial sector reforms and CSDI modernization efforts
- Experience working in remote or hybrid work settings
Compensation & Benefits
- Competitive salary and stock options
- Comprehensive health benefits
- One-time $500 stipend for home office setup
- Monthly $150 stipend via Brex card
Work Environment
This role operates in a globally distributed environment, open to candidates in the USA, Canada, Japan, Hungary, Nigeria, Brazil, UK, and other regions. The team emphasizes flexibility, accountability, and continuous learning.
Company Values
- Stay Curious
- Have Empathy
- Be Accountable
Equal opportunity is a core principle. The organization actively supports diversity and inclusion in hiring and advancement.
