Business Manager APAC and MEA

About the role

The Business Manager sits within ICOO and acts as a key partner to the Chief Risk Office (CRO) APAC and MEA regional management team. Based in Singapore, the role supports financial, operational, regulatory and people management across a region of about 25 countries and multiple local regulators, translating regional strategy into disciplined execution with a focus on cost management, financial planning, headcount and travel management.

Key responsibilities

• Manage the regional budget cycle, including planning, forecasting, cost challenge, variance analysis and senior management reporting.
• Oversee cost performance across run-the-bank, change-the-bank and strategic investment activity, escalating risks or opportunities in time.
• Coordinate and challenge DBCM allocation inputs, cost centre integrity and regional finance outputs.
• Oversee regional workforce planning, including FTE forecasts, hiring pipeline, vacancies, attrition, contingent workers and location strategy.
• Support annual people processes such as performance management, compensation, promotion, talent review and succession planning.
• Partner with HR, Talent Acquisition and regional managers so hiring requests are governed, prioritised and aligned to budget and regulatory expectations.
• Provide input into regulatory engagement, submissions, internal and external audit and findings management.
• Coordinate management reporting for regional governance forums and support regional transformation and efficiency initiatives.
• Act as a trusted advisor to senior stakeholders with analysis, challenge and practical recommendations.

Required profile

• Minimum 3 years of experience in Business Management, COO, Finance or PMO roles.
• Minimum 5 years of experience in large, complex financial institutions.
• Exceptional stakeholder management and ability to influence senior leaders.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving and communication skills, discretion with confidential information, and proven ability to use AI tools responsibly.

Required skills

• Budgeting, forecasting, headcount modelling and business case building.
• Familiarity with workforce planning and HR lifecycle processes.
• Proficiency in Excel, PowerPoint and management reporting tools.

What we offer

• Flexible benefits plan including virtual doctor consultation services.
• Comprehensive leave benefits, gender-neutral parental leave and 25 days of annual paid leave plus public holidays.
• Hybrid working arrangement and a culture of continuous learning.