Head of Underwriting (SME)

We are a UAE-based fintech startup preparing to launch a digital SME lending platform in the UAE and KSA. We are at a stage where everything is being built from scratch — processes, policies, tools, and product flows.

We are looking for a proactive, independent, initiative-driven professional who is ready to build the entire credit function from zero, make decisions without predefined structures, and directly influence the shape of our product and risk framework.

Building the credit function from scratch

• Developing early underwriting workflows, governance structure and documentation.

• Setting up end-to-end operational and risk processes.

Underwriting & decisioning

• Full-cycle evaluation of applications: KYC/AML, financial analysis, bank statements, cash-flow modelling.

• Deal structuring, preparing credit memos, participating in the Credit Committee.

• Setting cut-offs, exception frameworks and decisioning rules.

Policies & governance

• Creating Credit Risk Policy, underwriting manuals, restructuring/collections procedures.

• Defining risk appetite, limits and EWS indicators.

• Working with Compliance (ADGM/FSRA, SAMA).

Future team & scale

• Designing the future credit team.

• Supporting hiring, onboarding, training and quality calibration.

Data & systems

• Working with engineering on LOS/LMS setup.

• Integrating AECB, open banking and accounting systems.

Portfolio management

• Building MI: vintages, funnels, concentrations, roll rates, watchlist.

• Running EWS and driving remedial strategies.

Cross-functional collaboration

• Working with Product and Ops on risk-by-design solutions.

• Initiating automation and process-improvement projects.

• A chance to join the company at inception and directly influence its growth and direction;

• A dynamic, cross-functional environment with product, engineering and operations teams.

• 5+ years in SME/commercial credit risk (KSA, UAE and/or CIS);

• Hands-on underwriting expertise: financials, cash-flow, bank statements;

• Strong understanding of the KSA and UAE SME market;

• Experience building processes from scratch (bank/fintech);

• Experience drafting credit policies;

• Advanced Excel; SQL/Python is a plus;

• Degree in finance/economics/accounting;

• Fluent Russian and English.

Nice to have:

• Digital SME lending experience;

• Sharia-compliant product exposure;

• Experience with external data providers and decision engines.

The role is Dubai-based and requires relocation. We provide relocation support.