Operations & Strategy Manager

Responsibilities

• Own and drive complex payments infrastructure projects end-to-end, from scoping to live launch
• Navigate licensing and regulatory processes by coordinating with authorities, scheme representatives, and external counsel
• Build and maintain rigorous project frameworks, including timelines, milestones, and risk registers
• Work closely with engineering teams to translate business requirements into actionable technical specifications
• Lead vendor evaluation and commercial negotiations, including building business cases and financial models
• Use SQL and Excel to analyze opportunities, track progress, and surface potential risks
• Manage senior external relationships with payment schemes, regulators, and financial institutions

Requirements

• 2–4 years of experience in a fast-paced fintech, payments company, startup, or financial institution
• Proven track record of delivering complex, cross-functional projects from start to finish
• Experience navigating regulatory and licensing processes within a regulated domain
• Ability to work effectively with engineering and technical teams
• Analytical proficiency in SQL and Excel
• Residency in the UAE or a strong willingness to relocate to Dubai

Preferred Qualifications

• Prior experience working with payment acquirers, payment facilitators, or card schemes (e.g., Visa, Mastercard)
• Familiarity with acquiring economics, such as interchange, scheme fees, or settlement flows
• Experience working with UAE or GCC regulators like CBUAE, ADGM, or DFSA

Benefits

• Competitive compensation including equity and 0% income tax in Dubai
• Generous relocation support for visas and housing
• Hybrid work environment with flexible remote work allowances
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance
• Paid parental leave
• Professional development support and mentorship
• Evening meal program via Deliveroo

About the Company

Ziina is building MENA's consumer and SMB financial platform, starting with a peer-to-peer and merchant wallet. Our mission is to bring financial freedom to every person in the Middle East. Our team features talent from global leaders like Apple, Uber, Stripe, and Revolut, and we are backed by top-tier investors including Y Combinator and Altos Ventures.