A leading international bank with a long-standing presence in the Middle East is seeking a Head of Leverage and Syndicate Finance to lead its regional leveraged and structured lending activities. The successful candidate will be responsible for originating, structuring, and executing leveraged, acquisition, and syndicated finance transactions across Saudi Arabia and the wider GCC region.
This is a senior leadership position within the Investment Banking division, requiring close coordination with coverage, credit, and product partners globally.
Key Responsibilities:Lead the leveraged and syndicated finance function in Saudi Arabia, covering both origination and execution. Develop and implement a strategy to grow the leveraged and acquisition finance franchise in alignment with the bank’s broader corporate and investment banking objectives. Structure, price, and execute leveraged buyouts (LBOs), acquisition financings, recapitalisations, and event-driven transactions. Manage and coordinate loan syndications, including primary distribution, underwriting, and investor engagement. Build and maintain strong relationships with financial sponsors, corporates, and key institutional investors. Work closely with product, coverage, and credit teams to ensure robust risk assessment and deal approval. Monitor market trends, pricing dynamics, and regulatory developments across the region to inform origination and structuring strategy. Represent the bank in key market and regulatory discussions relating to debt capital markets and leveraged finance. Lead and mentor a small, high-performing team of leveraged and structured finance professionals.
Requirements:Minimum 12–15 years’ experience in leveraged and syndicated finance, ideally within a leading international or regional bank. Strong track record in originating and executing complex leveraged and acquisition finance transactions across emerging or developed markets. Deep understanding of loan structuring, underwriting, syndication, and risk management principles. Demonstrated ability to manage key client relationships, including financial sponsors, corporates, and institutional investors. Comprehensive understanding of Saudi and GCC markets, with familiarity with local regulatory frameworks and capital markets dynamics. Proven leadership and team management skills, with the ability to develop and retain top talent. Excellent communication, presentation, and negotiation skills. Bachelor’s degree required; MBA, CFA, or relevant postgraduate qualification preferred.