Director Investment - Real Estate , Tourism and Hospitality

Job Description

We are seeking a strategic and results-driven Investment Director to oversee and optimise the performance of a high-value Real Estate, Hospitality, and Tourism portfolio for a leading UAE-based entity.

This role requires a balance of portfolio management, operational enhancements, and investment execution through mergers and acquisitions (M&A), fundraising, and strategic partnerships. The ideal candidate will bring extensive investment management experience, strong financial acumen, and a proven track record in driving growth and operational excellence in high-growth environments.

Key Responsibilities

• Partner with portfolio company management teams to drive performance optimization and growth initiatives.
• Represent the firm in board meetings and committees, leading discussions and key negotiations.
• Develop and implement corporate and business strategies to maximize asset value and long-term growth.
• Enhance operational efficiency, including cost optimization, working capital management, and revenue growth strategies.
• Identify and mitigate portfolio risks through proactive assessment and strategic planning.
• Evaluate and challenge CapEx proposals to ensure feasibility, ROI, and alignment with the firms strategic direction.
• Conduct due diligence on investment opportunities and collaborate with research firms for in-depth market and financial insights.
• Manage engagements with third-party consultants, investment banks, and legal advisors to optimize investment performance and execution.

• Contribute to shaping investment strategies and defining portfolio priorities in alignment with the CIOs vision.
• Maintain a strong investment pipeline, identifying and assessing new opportunities.
• Lead deal origination, execution, negotiations, and post-investment monitoring.
• Work closely with legal teams and advisors to facilitate seamless transaction execution.
• Align investment activities with national economic objectives, including infrastructure development, job creation, and GDP contribution.

Qualifications & Experience

Education:

• Bachelor&aposs degree in Finance, Business, Engineering, or a related field from a top-tier university.
• MBA, CA, ACCA, CPA, or equivalent professional certification is preferred.

Experience:

• 10-12 years of experience in investment management within Real Estate, Hospitality, Private Equity, Sovereign Wealth Funds, or Investment Banking.
• Proven ability to lead at the CXO level, serve as a Board Member, and manage high-performing teams.
• Strong industry expertise in real estate and hospitality, with a deep understanding of financial structuring and strategic growth levers.
• Exceptional analytical and execution capabilities to drive operational and strategic improvements.
• Demonstrated success in stakeholder management, engaging with senior executives, consultants, and regulatory bodies.

Who They Are Looking For:

• Strategic leader with a strong investment track record in Hospitality & Real Estate.
• Stable career historyminimum 6 years in a single role.
• With relevant Industry experience:Private Equity firms managing Hospitality and Real Estate assets. Investment Banks & M&A teams with a focus on Hospitality transactions. Corporate M&A functions within large hospitality groups.