We are seeking a highly motivated and experienced Senior Manager of Product Development Platform (Islamic Finance) to lead strategic, legal, and regulatory initiatives supporting the development of Islamic finance within AIFC and Kazakhstan. This mid-to-senior level role combines legal literacy with policy development, market research, and stakeholder engagement. The Senior Manager will also serve as the Secretariat for the Islamic Finance Advisory Board (IFAB), ensuring effective coordination and implementation of its decisions.
Key Responsibilities
- Support the drafting and execution of Islamic finance development strategies for banking, capital markets, takaful, fintech, and ESG sectors.
- Serve as Secretariat for IFAB, managing operations, preparing materials, and following up on decisions.
- Draft and update legal and regulatory frameworks supporting Shari’ah-compliant financial products.
- Prepare legal documentation including legal opinions, internal policies, board resolutions, and regulatory proposals.
- Study international standards (e.g., AAOIFI, IFSB) and develop proposals for their adaptation within the AIFC legal framework.
- Produce research papers, policy briefs, and recommendations on Islamic finance law-related matters.
- Liaise with local regulators (AFSA, NBK, ARRFR) and international bodies (AAOIFI, IFSB, IsDB, CIBAFI) on strategic issues.
- Conduct training and engagement activities with industry stakeholders to promote Islamic finance development.
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Law, Finance, Economics, or Islamic Finance.
- Additional education or certification in Islamic Finance or AAOIFI Standards is an advantage.
- Minimum 5 years of legal practice, preferably in financial services, banking, or regulatory sectors.
- Experience in drafting and analyzing legislation and regulatory frameworks.
- Background in Islamic financial products (e.g., Sukuk, Takaful, Mudarabah, Ijara).
- Experience working with regulators, international financial institutions, or Shari’ah boards is a plus.
- Fluent in English, Kazakh, and Russian.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (advanced level).
- Familiarity with CRM, project management tools, and data visualization/reporting platforms.
- Strong legal and strategic thinking with expertise in Islamic finance standards
- Excellent communication, stakeholder engagement, and interpersonal skills
- Analytical mindset with attention to detail and ability to manage complex tasks
- Ability to work independently and deliver high-quality outputs under tight deadlines
- Strong work ethic, integrity, and commitment to excellence
- Professional demeanor and collaborative approach