Business Management Executive Director

Who we are

United by a sense of purpose towards our customers – to be a trusted partner for the long-term – and our universal banking platform in EMEA, SMBC Group has an international growth agenda and award-winning products, meaning we provide exciting opportunities to work on a diverse range of projects and initiatives. We deliver a full suite of corporate finance products and solutions to our customers as well as investment banking and advisory services, and a range of innovative solutions in global capital markets. Read on to find out how you could enhance your skills and gain valuable experience, by joining us to support our clients transition to a sustainable future.

Role Summary

Is the next step in your career at SMBC Group EMEA? We’re looking for an Executive Director for our Middle East, Turkey & Africa Team (META) to join our team.

In an era marked by intensifying global competition, rapid technological advancement, and increasing regulatory scrutiny, financial institutions face mounting pressure to adapt and innovate. Business diversification and the growing complexity of risk—spanning credit, sanctions, reputational, and climate-related dimensions—require leaders who can balance strategic foresight with operational agility.

In emerging markets, particularly across EMEA, the ability to make timely and informed decisions is critical. The Business Manager is expected to serve as a central figure in this transformation, enabling the organization to respond swiftly to market changes, capitalize on new opportunities, and mitigate risks effectively.

Business Area

• Provide strategic leadership and oversight for Business Management across META region, ensuring alignment with SMBC EMEA objectives. Influence regional strategy, governance, and operational excellence while fostering a culture of compliance, integrity, and inclusion.
• Plays a pivotal role in driving the strategic and operational success of both the division and the broader department, whilst ensuring full alignment with EMEA and Tokyo HO global CIB strategy. This role is responsible for translating high-level strategies into actionable plans, ensuring seamless execution across business lines, and continuously enhancing organizational performance and profitability.
  By acting as a bridge between senior management and frontline teams, the Business Manager facilitates cross-functional collaboration, oversees budgetary planning and control, supports talent development, and strengthens relationships with key clients and partners. The role demands a proactive mindset, strong analytical capabilities, and the ability to navigate complex and dynamic business environments

Position Description

• Shape and execute business management strategy for META region in alignment with SMBC EMEA priorities.
• Represent META in senior governance forums and contribute to policy development.
• Drive enterprise leadership by promoting collaboration across functions and geographies.
• Ensure robust risk management and compliance frameworks are embedded across operations.
• Lead transformation initiatives to enhance operational efficiency and customer-centricity.
• Develop talent pipeline and embed diversity and inclusion within the team.
• Engage with internal and external stakeholders to maintain strong relationships and uphold SMBC’s reputation.
• Deliver sustainable growth through strategic decision-making and operational excellence.
• • Develop and implement business strategies aligned with the broader global CIB strategy for EMEA and Tokyo HO
  • Lead marketing initiatives to enhance brand visibility and client engagement
  • Manage and monitor budgets, conduct profitability analysis, and identify cost-saving opportunities
  • Streamline operational processes to improve efficiency and reduce redundancies
  • Mentor and develop team members, fostering a culture of performance and collaboration
  • Build and maintain strong relationships with clients, product partners, and internal stakeholders
  • Work in close partnership with Vertical Office Business Management & Planning team
  • Ensure compliance with internal policies and external regulations, including credit, sanctions, and reputational risks
  • Identify and evaluate new business opportunities, including market entry strategies and product development
  • Coordinate reporting and communication between headquarters and regional offices, ensuring strategic alignment and timely issue escalation
• Support strategic projects and initiatives, including digital transformation, ESG integration, and regional expansion

Skills and Experience

Knowledge & Skills;

• Strong strategic thinking and execution capabilities, with a results-oriented approach
• Solid understanding of financial principles, including budgeting, forecasting, and variance analysis
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to influence across functions and cultures
• Proven team leadership and people development experience
• Proficiency in data analysis, KPI tracking, and performance reporting
• Ability to manage cross-border projects and navigate multicultural environment

Experience;

• Demonstrated experience in business planning, marketing strategy, and operational improvement
• Prior exposure to emerging markets, with an understanding of local business practices and regulatory landscapes
• Experience working in global financial institutions, preferably in roles involving cross-functional coordination
• Track record of managing complex projects and delivering measurable outcomes

Knowledge & Skills;

• Strong strategic thinking and execution capabilities, with a results-oriented approach
• Solid understanding of financial principles, including budgeting, forecasting, and variance analysis
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to influence across functions and cultures
• Proven team leadership and people development experience
• Proficiency in data analysis, KPI tracking, and performance reporting
• Ability to manage cross-border projects and navigate multicultural environment

Experience;

• Demonstrated experience in business planning, marketing strategy, and operational improvement
• Prior exposure to emerging markets, with an understanding of local business practices and regulatory landscapes
• Experience working in global financial institutions, preferably in roles involving cross-functional coordination
• Track record of managing complex projects and delivering measurable outcomes

Competencies

What we offer

For all the expertise and experience you bring to help us make a difference, it’s only sustainable if we support you to build your career and be your best self so we offer competitive company benefits, centred around promoting positive well-bring and work-life balance. We also believe in fostering a diverse and inclusive work environment, where all team members perspectives and contributions are valued. Initiatives in place which promote a diverse and inclusive culture and healthy work life balance include hybrid working, Sport & Social Clubs and Diversity and Inclusion networks.

As an employee of SMBC you have access to a host of both useful and exciting benefit offerings. See below some of the benefits on offer to you:

• Hybrid and flexible working 
• Competitive paid leave days
• Benefits to support your physical wellbeing, including private medical insurance and life and invalidity insurance 
• Various policies to support your mental wellbeing, including a robust behavioural health network with counselling and coaching services  
• Access a wide range of learning and development opportunities and career progression opportunities 
• Ambitious remuneration package

So, if you like a challenge and want to continuously grow and develop in a role where you will be supported along the way by a dynamic and diverse team, apply today!!