Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Languages
Timeline
OperationsManager

Jaafar Badwan

Treasury & Fund Management
Abu Dhabi,United Arab Emirates

Summary

With over 40 years of distinguished experience in the finance sector, I have established myself as a seasoned executive , excelling in corporate and investment banking , economic research , and portfolio management . My expertise spans pivotal roles in capital markets , business development , and credit risk management , primarily at the executive and C-suite levels . Throughout my career, I have demonstrated a profound strategic influence in shaping the finance industry through leadership and informed decision-making.

Specializing in the intricate areas of corporate and investment banking , I leverage my strong foundation in economic research and portfolio management to navigate the complexities of capital markets . This unique blend of skills has enabled me to lead groundbreaking business development projects while maintaining a rigorous focus on credit risk management and strategic decision-making .

Over the course of four decades, I have honed a comprehensive skill set that positions me as a dynamic leader with deep expertise across key financial domains. I have consistently played a critical role in developing and implementing strategies that enhance capital market operations, optimize business growth, and mitigate risk. My leadership is characterized by a strategic approach , with a focus on credit risk mitigation , and long-term financial sustainability .

As an accomplished finance executive , I bring extensive expertise in fixed income portfolio management , liquidity strategy , financial policy development , and advisory services across international capital markets . I have successfully managed complex multi-currency portfolios , driven strategic asset allocation , and pioneered innovative investment strategies . My proven track record reflects a strong commitment to capital preservation , profitability , and liquidity management , underpinned by an in-depth understanding of derivatives , risk hedging , and market analytics . Additionally, I have demonstrated the ability to guide financial institutions , including central banks , in optimizing investment outcomes and mitigating risks, while fostering strong relationships with global market participants.

Overview

33
33
years of professional experience

Work History

Group Head of Investment

Das Group Holding
01.2018 - Current
  • Spearheaded the management of multi-currency fixed income portfolios , optimizing asset allocation to deliver 14% compound annual growth while maintaining liquidity, profitability, and capital preservation .
  • Led the development and execution of a 5-year funding strategic plan , which reduced funding costs by 10% annually , secured an investment-grade credit rating from Moody's , and positioned the company as a leading player in the UAE market.
  • Managed cash collateral portfolios through short-dated instruments, ensuring optimal liquidity coverage and profitability , aligning with strategic objectives and maintaining risk parameters.
  • Directed the company's strategic asset allocation , implementing robust risk management frameworks that supported long-term growth and diversification across asset classes , including fixed income, equities, and private equity .
  • Championed strategic growth and market leadership initiatives , positioning Das Holding as one of the most successful private offices in the UAE.
  • Conducted comprehensive investment analysis and scenario planning , providing the board with a long-term strategic roadmap that yielded superior financial outcomes.
  • Regularly assessed global market developments, including changes in central bank policies, economic trends, and interest rate environments, to optimize portfolio performance and risk mitigation strategies .
  • Advised the board on key strategic matters and corporate governance , ensuring alignment with shareholder interests and approval of transformative strategies such as the 5-year growth plan .
  • Demonstrated deep proficiency in derivatives and structured products , leading transactions involving interest rate and currency swaps , which mitigated market volatility and protected the portfolio from external shocks.
  • Developed and enhanced portfolio analytics tools , including P&L attribution, cash flow projections, and scenario analysis , improving the company's ability to monitor risk and performance metrics in real-time.
  • Led innovations in investment products and strategies , introducing new instruments such as commercial paper (CPs) and assessing alternative funding options including repo transactions to enhance liquidity.
  • Played a key role in credit analysis , conducting in-depth assessments of counterparties and issuers to ensure creditworthiness and protect the company's assets.
  • Fostered a culture of innovation and risk management , consistently enhancing investment strategies and mitigating potential risks to ensure superior financial outcomes .

CEO

RJA Consultant Company
01.2012 - 12.2017
  • Delivered tailored investment solutions and risk management frameworks for institutional clients, including GCC corporate clients, high net worth and family offices. focusing on investments and corporate governance.
  • Led financial projects for the United Nations , including the UNHCR ZAKAT Donation Program , enabling continuous refinancing through structured financial instruments and ensuring long-term capital preservation and liquidity .
  • Provided high-level advisory services as an Independent Board Member for Jordan Dubai Islamic Bank , advising on strategic asset allocation, liquidity management, and credit risk assessments , in line with institutional investment objectives.
  • Developed tailored training programs on investment management, risk hedging, and fixed income trading for financial institutions and government entities, improving capacity building and enabling stakeholders to implement advanced risk management techniques such as interest rate swaps, futures, and currency hedging .
  • Delivered advanced courses on investment management, corporate finance, risk management , and portfolio construction for MBA and CFA Level 1 and Level 2 programs.
  • Developed and taught topics on fixed income securities, derivatives, and strategic asset allocation , focusing on real-world application through case studies and simulations .
  • Mentored students in CFA programs , guiding them in financial analysis, ethics , and risk-adjusted portfolio management , preparing them for roles in asset management and capital markets .
  • Regularly updated course content to reflect the latest trends in global markets , monetary policies , and investment strategies .
  • Collaborated with universities to design custom programs for professionals in the Gulf financial sector , emphasizing risk hedging, liquidity management , and credit analysis .
  • Regularly monitored and assessed global economic developments , central bank policies, and interest rate trends to provide market intelligence and update clients on the implications for their fixed income portfolios .
  • Led the implementation of innovative investment products and strategies , focusing on sustainable investment and the deployment of new financial products that aligned with global best practices in capital deployment and liquidity management .
  • Fostered and managed strong relationships with key stakeholders, including , international development organizations, and the broader investment community , ensuring compliance and aligning strategic goals with market developments.

Director Finance Division

Tourist Development & Investment Company (TDIC)
09.2009 - 12.2011
  • Pioneered financial strategies that supported Abu Dhabi's strategic vision of diversifying its economy through large-scale tourism and real estate projects , including landmark initiatives such as Saadiyat Island and Louvre Abu Dhabi . These projects played a pivotal role in driving economic development and enhancing Abu Dhabi's global reputation as a tourism hub .
  • Developed and executed a comprehensive long-term funding strategy designed to meet the financing needs of the company's extensive $35 billion real estate portfolio , leveraging a variety of advanced financial instruments to optimize the cost of capital and ensure sustained liquidity.
  • Structured and implemented complex financing deals using debt and equity models , including the issuance of corporate bonds and sukuk , which diversified the company's funding sources and reduced its reliance on traditional banking loans.
  • Spearheaded the use of derivatives and swaps to hedge against interest rate risks and currency fluctuations, ensuring that the company's funding and investment strategy remained resilient amid global market volatility.
  • Deployed insurance mechanisms to safeguard critical infrastructure investments and ensure financial security for large-scale development projects, mitigating risk and protecting shareholder value.
  • Collaborated closely with international investors, government stakeholders, and financial institutions to secure funding for major infrastructural and tourism projects , significantly contributing to the transformation of Abu Dhabi's tourism and real estate landscape.
  • Regularly presented performance and risk assessments to senior leadership, advising on key strategic financial decisions that aligned with the company's growth objectives and long-term economic goals.
  • Led efforts to enhance corporate governance practices within the organization, ensuring that all financial activities adhered to regulatory standards and aligned with Abu Dhabi's economic development goals .

General Manager Treasury & Investment Banking

Bahrain Islamic Bank
04.2008 - 03.2009
  • Established a full-fledged Portfolio Management Department from the ground up, creating an in-house team of specialists responsible for overseeing the bank's multi-asset portfolios , which included fixed income securities, sukuk, structured products, and equities . This strategic initiative provided the bank with a comprehensive, in-house capacity to manage its own portfolios, reducing reliance on external managers, and enabling the institution to diversify its investment strategies for better risk-adjusted returns . The department's focus on building a balanced, diversified portfolio allowed for greater capital preservation and stable returns , even in volatile market conditions.
  • Spearheaded the creation of the Capital Markets Division , positioning the bank to tap into emerging opportunities in the global capital markets . Through the introduction of innovative instruments such as corporate bonds, sukuk issuances , and Islamic financing structures , the division played a pivotal role in enhancing the bank's market presence and attracted new institutional clients . This move also allowed BisB to become a key player in the rapidly growing Islamic capital markets , gaining a competitive edge by offering Sharia-compliant financial products that appealed to a global investor base.
  • Revamped the Treasury Department by overhauling its liquidity management processes and introducing state-of-the-art risk management frameworks . These new frameworks were designed to mitigate exposure to interest rate risks, foreign exchange fluctuations , and liquidity risks , ensuring that the bank maintained a strong liquidity position. Through the implementation of precise liquidity management tools, the bank improved its ability to manage short-term funding , optimize cash flow, and strategically position itself to navigate financial crises and periods of market turbulence.
  • Developed and introduced new investment policies and procedures for both the Treasury and Capital Markets departments , ensuring full alignment with Islamic banking principles while incorporating global best practices . These updated policies empowered the bank to navigate volatile market conditions while maintaining compliance with Sharia law . By providing a clear set of standards and frameworks, these policies improved both operational efficiency and investment performance , leading to sustainable, long-term growth for the bank.
  • Enhanced the Treasury's ability to execute derivatives and hedging strategies , incorporating interest rate swaps, currency swaps, and structured deposits to protect the bank from market volatility. These sophisticated hedging techniques allowed the bank to reduce its exposure to fluctuating interest rates and currency exchange rates, thereby safeguarding assets and improving the overall performance of its investment portfolios.
  • Recruited and developed a highly skilled team of professionals within the Portfolio Management, Treasury, and Capital Markets divisions. By fostering a culture of innovation and collaboration , you ensured that each department operated with cutting-edge market practices and maintained the highest standards of professional expertise . This initiative resulted in a more dynamic and responsive team that could adapt to rapidly changing market environments.
  • Streamlined treasury operations through the introduction of new technologies and analytics tools , which enabled real-time monitoring of liquidity, market conditions, and investment performance. These technological advancements enhanced the bank's operational efficiency , improved decision-making processes, and allowed for quicker reactions to market shifts, giving the bank a strategic advantage.
  • Collaborated with senior leadership and the board to ensure the strategic alignment of the revamped Treasury and Capital Markets functions with the bank's broader growth objectives. Through these initiatives, you contributed to strengthening the bank's resilience and ensuring its competitiveness in a rapidly evolving financial environment . Your efforts directly impacted the bank's ability to thrive during and after the 2008 financial crisis , positioning it as a stable and forward-thinking institution in the region.

Head of Capital Market

First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB)
04.1997 - 06.2006
  • Pioneered the establishment and management of FAB's Capital Markets Department , aligning the bank's strategic objectives with global investment opportunities. Under my leadership, the department grew FAB's investment portfolio to US$ 3.5 billion in Assets Under Management (AUM) , consistently surpassing annual profit targets by an average of 19% . This positioned the division as a core revenue driver for the bank, setting new financial performance benchmarks across international markets.
  • Introduced groundbreaking fixed-income instruments , including the first-ever UAE Dirham bonds for global brands such as BMW and Emirates Airlines , revolutionizing the local bond market and expanding the AED bond market . This initiative solidified FAB's leadership in offering local currency debt solutions and played a critical role in developing the region's financial infrastructure .
  • Capitalized on international market opportunities , creating a diversified investment portfolio across key financial centers in Europe, North America, and Asia . By mitigating risks associated with single-market exposure and leveraging global financial trends , I enhanced FAB's financial resilience and secured long-term profitability .
  • Played a key role as an active member of the Investment Committee , chaired by the CEO, where I provided quarterly economic and interest rate analyses on G7 economies . I developed strategic investment proposals across diverse asset classes, which resulted in consistently surpassing profit targets while managing an AUM of US$ 3.5 billion in international equity and fixed income markets .
  • Delivered expert advisory services to high-net-worth clients and family offices in Abu Dhabi, managing assets totaling US$ 375 million . Through detailed market insights and personalized investment strategies, I achieved a net return of 10% while fostering strong client relationships .
  • Expanded FAB's presence in the GCC as the leader of Debt Capital Markets (DCM) origination , overseeing client pitches, credit market analysis, and successfully aligning issuer needs with DCM tools. I spearheaded the bank's expansion into the regional DCM landscape, identifying key opportunities and executing successful transactions that enhanced FAB's market leadership.
  • Instrumental in establishing the UAE bond market , leading the landmark initiative in 1999 to introduce the Dirham bond market , gaining authorization from the UAE Central Bank to arrange public bond deals in local currency. I successfully convinced key entities like BMW and DUBAL to participate, culminating in the launch of the first-ever UAE Dirham bond issue for BMW , a groundbreaking AED 450 million transaction .
  • Following the success of the BMW bond issue, I led the launch of the second Dirham bond for Abbey National UK , valued at AED 400 million , further cementing the UAE Dirham bond market as a vital funding mechanism.
  • Secured and managed the highly successful Emirates Airlines Dirham bond issue , with a total size of AED 1.5 billion , achieving a five-fold oversubscription . FAB and HSBC acted as joint lead arrangers and managers, demonstrating FAB's market leadership in local debt issuance.
  • Developed long-term funding strategies in collaboration with prominent corporate, family offices, and financial institutions in the GCC, ensuring alignment with their business expansion plans and liquidity needs.
  • Mentored and managed a high-performing team of professionals, fostering innovation and ensuring strategic alignment with the bank's growth objectives. I also spearheaded the development of internal policies and procedures, aligning them with industry best practices and regulatory requirements .
  • Represented FAB at industry events , elevating the bank's profile and building strategic relationships with key stakeholders, clients, and investors across the GCC and beyond.

Manager of Capital Market

Abu Dhabi Investment Company
04.1995 - 04.1997
  • In 1995 , the Abu Dhabi Investment Company (AD Invest) board made a strategic decision to expand its capital markets and portfolio management business . I was given the mandate to establish a full-fledged Capital Markets Department , which included creating a dynamically managed trading portfolio to trade in euro-bonds , US treasury bonds , and take arbitrage positions in both derivative and cash markets . This mandate was critical to transforming AD Invest into a competitive player in global capital markets.
  • Upon taking over in April 1995 , the Capital Markets Department was 40% below its annual profit target . In just six months , I completed all tasks related to the department's establishment, including setting up trading operations, risk management frameworks, and the necessary policies and procedures to streamline the department. By December 1995 , not only had I achieved the annual profit target , but I also exceeded it by 20% , turning around the department's performance in a remarkably short time frame.
  • In 1996 , the department continued to thrive under my leadership, achieving 25% above the 1995 profit targets , a testament to the effectiveness of the new strategies, market positioning, and the dynamic portfolio management approach that I had implemented. This significant improvement in profitability reinforced AD Invest's position in the regional and international capital markets.
  • Spearheaded a significant shift in investment practices, policies, and procedures , establishing a strong foundation for the department's long-term growth. These changes aligned the business with global best practices , improving both risk management and operational efficiency . I also built strong relationships with regional and international financial institutions , creating a network of partners that facilitated more robust investment opportunities and collaborations.
  • Due to my success at AD Invest, in early 1997 , I was given a new assignment by Abu Dhabi Investment Authority (ADIA) , which owned 70% of NBAD (now FAB) and 100% of AD Invest . Recognizing my ability to drive impact, ADIA entrusted me with the mandate to establish a Capital Markets Department at NBAD (now FAB) , with the goal of generating a bigger impact on NBAD's balance sheet . At that time, NBAD did not have a Capital Markets Department. This role represented a pivotal moment in my career as I transitioned to NBAD to spearhead the development of their capital markets operations, leveraging the expertise and success I had achieved at AD Invest.
  • Total assets under management (AUM) at AD Invest during my tenure were US$ 150 million , and my leadership resulted in not only achieving but exceeding the financial performance expectations. I played a key role in transforming AD Invest's capital markets operations into a highly profitable division, with strategic trading, risk management, and institutional relationships that paved the way for future growth.

UAE Central Bank

The Central Bank of the UAE
10.1991 - 12.1994
  • Overseeing the UAE Central Bank's foreign currency reserves , Successfully allocated US$ 1.5 billion across a range of international government fixed income bond markets . This strategic allocation maximized returns while ensuring capital preservation and managing exposure to currency and interest rate risks. My role required constant market analysis and the ability to adapt investment strategies in response to global economic changes.
  • Played a pivotal role in establishing the UAE Central Bank's Certificate of Deposit (CDs) Program in 1993 , a landmark initiative that significantly bolstered the UAE's financial infrastructure. Leading the treasury and investment team , we developed and implemented a program that enabled CDs to be issued in UAE Dirham , creating a daily mechanism for banks operating in the UAE to invest their excess liquidity. This program laid the foundation for the local money market , providing banks with a reliable tool to manage their short-term liquidity needs.
  • The CDs program created an official benchmark rate for pricing in the local financial system, which in turn led to the development of a money market yield curve . This innovation had a transformative impact on the Central Bank's monetary policy capabilities , allowing for more effective control over money supply and interest rates. The program also enhanced liquidity in the banking sector and contributed to the stabilization of the domestic financial market.
  • In addition to the issuance of CDs, I led the establishment of a REPO (Repurchase Agreement) program for these instruments, enabling banks to obtain liquidity on demand at daily communicated rates. This was a key feature of the program, as it provided banks with a flexible tool for managing their liquidity positions, further boosting the stability of the UAE banking system.
  • Through the net proceeds generated from the CDs program , which totaled US$ 2.5 billion , I directed the investment of these funds into international bond markets , further diversifying the Central Bank's investment portfolio and strengthening its financial position. The investment strategy was designed to ensure risk-adjusted returns, capital protection, and alignment with the Central Bank's broader financial objectives.
  • I n 1993, I was a key member of the UAE Stock Market Establishing Committee , tasked with creating the framework for the country's first stock exchange. Working alongside prominent figures such as the Minister of Finance , Minister of Economic Planning , and members of the Abu Dhabi Chamber of Commerce , we successfully developed the regulatory and operational framework for the UAE stock market in just 10 months . This achievement was instrumental in creating a platform for the development of the UAE's capital markets, which continue to thrive today.
  • Managed foreign exchange risks , I took strategic hedging and trading positions in the foreign exchange markets, guided by my analysis of economic fundamentals and interest rate differentials . My ability to forecast shifts in global economic conditions and interest rates allowed me to optimize the Central Bank's currency portfolio, contributing to the overall profitability of its foreign currency reserves.
  • My role also involved providing economic, industry, and statistical forecasts to support the Central Bank's investment decisions. I evaluated key market drivers and risk factors that could impact the bank's investment portfolio, helping the Central Bank navigate complex international financial markets. These forecasts were crucial for identifying emerging risks and opportunities, enabling the bank to adjust its strategies as needed.
  • Additionally, I published quarterly economic reports , providing detailed analysis on global market conditions, central bank policies, and interest rate trends. These reports were distributed to stakeholders within the Central Bank and the UAE government, offering valuable insights for decision-making and policy development.
  • My expertise in managing large-scale investment portfolios and developing financial market programs made a significant contribution to the development of the UAE's financial sector, particularly through the creation of key monetary policy tools and the establishment of the UAE stock market. These initiatives helped lay the groundwork for a more diversified and stable financial system, positioning the UAE as a leading financial hub in the region.

Education

MBA - Economics

University of Bridgeport
USA
05-1980

BBA - Economics

University of Aleppo
Syria
09-1977

Skills

    Strategic Vision and Business Judgment

  • Strategic Vision & Execution: Expertise in developing and implementing long-term strategies that drive growth and align organizational resources with business goals Proven track record in formulating a strategic vision for investment portfolios, business growth, and process improvement

  • Critical Thinking & Problem Solving: Adept at analyzing complex problems, evaluating solutions, and making sound business judgments Skilled in business process re-engineering and crafting solutions to enhance operational efficiency

  • Mergers & Acquisitions Knowledge: Strong understanding of M&A processes, including financial structuring, due diligence, and negotiation strategies to achieve successful deals

    • Financial Acumen & Risk Management

  • Investment Portfolio Management: Proven ability to construct and manage diversified portfolios across various asset classes, including fixed income, equity, and alternative investments Skilled in selecting external managers and optimizing risk-adjusted returns

  • Financial Acumen & Risk Management: Deep expertise in evaluating investment risks, conducting credit analysis, and implementing strategies that mitigate financial risk while optimizing returns

  • Numeracy & Financial Structuring: Advanced skills in financial modeling, quantitative analysis, and numeracy, essential for evaluating complex financial instruments and structuring investment portfolios

    • Leadership & Team Collaboration

  • Leadership & Team Building: Proven ability to lead and mentor high-performing teams Fosters a culture of collaboration, innovation, and continuous improvement while delivering on strategic objectives

  • Teamwork & Collaboration: Skilled at promoting collaboration across teams to achieve common business goals and ensure effective project execution Strong experience in resource planning and team development

    Communication & Stakeholder Engagement

  • Communication Skills: Highly effective at translating complex financial and investment concepts into clear, actionable insights for stakeholders Demonstrated excellence in stakeholder engagement and building strong relationships with investors, regulators, and key partners

  • Public Speaking & Publications: Frequent guest speaker at high-profile international conferences on macroeconomics and finance Published numerous articles on key economic issues in leading journals and invited for media appearances on global platforms to discuss financial developments

    • Project Management & Innovation

  • Program Development: Developed and led multiple training programs and contributed to the UNHCR Zakat Donation Program, crafting proposals and delivering results aligned with organizational goals

  • Innovation & Process Improvement: Demonstrated experience in developing and executing long-term funding strategies using advanced financial instruments such as debt, equity, derivatives, and insurance mechanisms for large infrastructure projects

    • Ethics & Integrity

  • Integrity & Ethical Conduct: Dedicated to maintaining the highest standards of ethics and integrity, ensuring transparency and accountability in all professional dealings Upholds a client-first approach while complying with corporate governance and regulatory requirements

    • Time Management & Organizational Skills

  • Organizational & Time Management: Proven ability to manage multiple priorities and complex projects with exceptional organizational skills Skilled at managing time efficiently, meeting deadlines, and driving performance improvements

Languages

English
Bilingual or Proficient (C2)
Arabic
Bilingual or Proficient (C2)

Timeline

Group Head of Investment

Das Group Holding
01.2018 - Current

CEO

RJA Consultant Company
01.2012 - 12.2017

Director Finance Division

Tourist Development & Investment Company (TDIC)
09.2009 - 12.2011

General Manager Treasury & Investment Banking

Bahrain Islamic Bank
04.2008 - 03.2009

Head of Capital Market

First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB)
04.1997 - 06.2006

Manager of Capital Market

Abu Dhabi Investment Company
04.1995 - 04.1997

UAE Central Bank

The Central Bank of the UAE
10.1991 - 12.1994

MBA - Economics

University of Bridgeport

BBA - Economics

University of Aleppo

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Jaafar BadwanTreasury & Fund Management