Manager, External Affairs - UAE

About Checkout.com

Checkout.com powers digital payments for leading global businesses such as eBay, Spotify, Klarna, Uber, and Sony, facilitating over 10 billion yearly transactions for more than one billion shoppers worldwide. Our platform supports seamless, scalable digital experiences across a variety of sectors including travel, food delivery, subscriptions, and online shopping. With headquarters in London and 20 offices worldwide, we are expanding the fintech horizon and growing rapidly.

Role Overview

As the inaugural External Affairs Manager in the MENA region, based in Dubai, you will lead our external affairs efforts in this vital geography. Reporting within the Legal, Risk and Compliance team, you will manage interactions with regulators, governments, and external stakeholders. This includes regulatory affairs, public policy advocacy, government relations, and licensing matters. You will shape the company’s public image and strategic messaging, working closely with local executives and representing Checkout.com in industry events and forums.

Main Responsibilities

• Develop and maintain strong relationships with government bodies, regulatory authorities, and key third parties, positioning Checkout.com as a valued strategic partner.
• Collaborate with Legal and Compliance teams to address regulatory inquiries, focusing on strategic narrative and positioning.
• Design and implement advocacy campaigns to advance Checkout.com’s regulatory objectives and secure favorable commercial outcomes.
• Monitor and analyze regional legislation to identify opportunities and risks, influencing fintech policies before enactment.
• Create and communicate a tailored external narrative specific to the UAE market.
• Represent the company at industry associations, forums, and conferences to advance industry advocacy efforts.

Candidate Profile

• Extensive experience in external affairs through roles in public affairs agencies, in-house corporate positions, trade bodies, government, or financial services regulatory agencies.
• In-depth knowledge of the UAE political and regulatory environment, with proven effectiveness in navigating its landscape.
• Strong relationship-building skills and a history of influencing key decisions.
• Ability to quickly comprehend complex technical policies and develop actionable strategies, even outside of financial services expertise.
• Exceptional composure in high-pressure situations and a practical, problem-solving mindset.
• Excellent written communication skills with the ability to convey messages clearly and concisely.
• Comfortable working with data, which is considered a significant advantage.
• Fluency in Business Arabic, both spoken and written, strongly preferred.
• Prior experience in fintech, payments, software, e-commerce, or banking sectors is an asset but not mandatory.
• Experience in startup or fast-paced work environments is desirable but not required.

Additional Information

Checkout.com values diversity and inclusivity, offering an empowering work environment where high performers thrive through meaningful ownership and impactful work. The company encourages applicants to request accommodations to ensure an accessible hiring and working experience.

Our hybrid working model requires three days onsite per week to foster collaboration and connection while allowing flexibility.