About this job
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Location: Dubai, UAE · Onsite office Abu Dhabi
The role in one line: own every partnership that brings SMEs to WorldFirst across the UAE - from first handshake to referred revenue.
Who we are
WorldFirst moves money for over a million SMEs, connecting them to 100+ global marketplaces. Part of Ant Group since 2019, our purpose is simple: make it easy to do business anywhere. Our Partnerships team is how that purpose becomes growth — building the referral, affiliate and enterprise relationships that bring the next generation of SMEs onto WorldFirst.
Why this role is exciting
This is a true player-coach role based in Abu Dhabi. You’ll own the partner portfolio end-to-end, carry real commercial targets from day one, and shape strategy as you get hands-on closing deals. Small team, big mandate, and full ownership of your pipeline.
What you’ll do
Grow the base. Acquire, manage and grow referral, affiliate and enterprise (API) partners - marketplaces, free zones and corporate service providers - that bring clients to WorldFirst. Negotiate terms that protect margin and drive volume.
Activate partners. Onboard smoothly across internal teams, train partner sales teams to pitch WorldFirst with confidence - including live tag-along support - and run co-marketing (webinars, trade shows, campaigns) that generates quality referrals.
Manage and expand.Run a regular cadence with your partner network, personally onboard high-value referred clients, and represent WorldFirst at industry events and CXO-level conversations wherever the partnership needs you.
Stay data-driven. Keep pipeline and CRM/MI reporting sharp so leadership decides on facts, not feelings - and keep improving the process behind it.
Who we’re looking for
- 6+ years in consultative sales or partnerships in fintech/payments, selling into the e-commerce and import/export ecosystem - directly and through channel partners - with a track record of beating demanding targets. University degree in business or a related field.
- Warm, deep connections across the UAE ecosystem are a significant edge: marketplace seller recruitment and advertising teams (Noon, Amazon), service provider networks, e-commerce enablers (TikTok, Shopify), free zones and CSPs focused on trade, and the importer/re-exporter community (Dragon Mart, Yiwu Market, produce markets).
- Senior enough for the boardroom, hands-on enough for the sales floor - at home speaking with a partner’s CXO suite or rolling up your sleeves alongside their sales team.
- Results-driven: you thrive under ambitious targets and deliver clear, concise strategies - even in ambiguity. Disciplined with data, relentless about results.
What’s in it for you
- Competitive UAE salary plus bonus tied to your numbers. Visa, medical cover and standard Dubai benefits.
- The backing of Ant International - products, brand and executive access few companies can match, from one of the world’s largest fintech businesses.
- A lean, nimble team with real ownership - your portfolio, your pipeline, your wins.
Who we are
WorldFirst is an equal-opportunity employer. We build diverse, inclusive teams where everyone belongs and can reach their full potential — and we welcome applications from all backgrounds.
How to Apply
Send your CV via the LinkedIn application, or directly to our talent speciality Cecilia Zhang https://www.linkedin.com/in/cecilia-z-834948195/.
Shortlisted candidates can expect an intro call, a commercial deep-dive and a final conversation with leadership — we aim to move quickly.