Manager, Islamic Finance

We are seeking a highly motivated and experienced Manager, Islamic Finance to support the strategic development and growth of the Islamic finance ecosystem within the AIFC. The successful candidate will contribute to policy development, market expansion initiatives, product innovation, and stakeholder engagement activities aimed at positioning the AIFC as a leading Islamic finance hub in the region.

Key Responsibilities:

• Support the strategic development and implementation of Islamic finance initiatives within the AIFC.
• Contribute to the formulation of policies and enhancement of the Islamic finance regulatory framework.
• Assist in attracting, onboarding, and supporting Islamic financial institutions seeking to establish operations within the AIFC.
• Facilitate licensing and regulatory approval processes in coordination with the Astana Financial Services Authority (AFSA).
• Develop and promote innovative Shari'ah-compliant financial products for both retail and corporate markets.
• Lead the structuring and development of Islamic capital market products, including Sukuk, Islamic investment funds, ETFs, and other Shari'ah-compliant instruments.
• Conduct market research and analysis on local, regional, and international Islamic finance developments.
• Organize industry events, conferences, workshops, training programmes, and presentations related to Islamic finance.
• Build and maintain effective relationships with regulators, market participants, international organizations, and industry stakeholders.
• Promote knowledge-sharing initiatives and contribute to the advancement of Islamic finance expertise within the region.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Islamic Finance, Finance, Economics, Business Administration, Law, Public Policy, or a related field.
• Professional certifications in Islamic finance would be an advantage, including certifications from AAOIFI, CIBAFI, BIBF, INCEIF, or other recognized Islamic finance institutions.
• Minimum of 5 years of relevant professional experience in financial services, Islamic finance, capital markets, banking, consulting, public policy, or economic research.
• Strong understanding of Islamic banking, capital markets, and Shari'ah-compliant financial instruments.
• Knowledge of Shari'ah governance frameworks, including AAOIFI and IFSB standards; familiarity with the AIFC regulatory environment and international Islamic finance regulations would be an advantage.
• Experience in product development, policy advisory, business development, stakeholder management, or regulatory affairs is preferred.

Skills & Competencies:

• Fluent in English, Kazakh, and Russian, with excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Strong analytical, financial analysis, and problem-solving capabilities, including experience with reporting and data-driven decision-making.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, CRM systems, project management tools, and digital collaboration platforms.
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple priorities, engage effectively with stakeholders, and deliver high-quality results within tight deadlines.
• Results-oriented team player with a strong work ethic, professionalism, and commitment to excellence.