Job Description

We are supporting a confidential search for a Director of Operations to join a growing, government-backed organization based in Ras Al Khaimah.

About the Role

This is a senior leadership position responsible for overseeing and strengthening key operational functions across the organization, including government relations, HR, legal, compliance, licensing/registry operations, and internal processes. The original scope places the role as a key member of the leadership team reporting directly to the CEO. The successful candidate will play a key role in building scalable operational frameworks, improving cross-functional collaboration, strengthening governance, and ensuring the organization operates efficiently and in line with UAE regulatory requirements.

Responsibilities

Lead and oversee core operational functions across the organization
Develop and implement operational frameworks, policies, SOPs, and end-to-end processes
Drive collaboration between departments and resolve operational challenges
Manage senior relationships with government entities, regulators, partners, and key stakeholders
Oversee licensing, registration, compliance, and governance-related activities
Improve service delivery through process optimization and technology-enabled workflows
Establish KPIs and performance dashboards to monitor operational effectiveness
Identify and mitigate operational risks
Build, lead, and develop high-performing teams

Qualifications

Bachelor's or Master's degree in Business Administration, Finance, Law, Public Policy, or a related discipline

Required Skills

8+ years of progressive operational leadership experience
Strong understanding of the UAE regulatory and government landscape
Proven experience managing multiple functions and cross-functional teams
Strong senior stakeholder and government relationship management experience
Experience developing operational frameworks and driving process improvement

Preferred Skills

Experience within a government entity, free zone, regulatory authority, business setup environment, or similarly complex organization is highly preferred