Associate Partner- Capital Markets

About the Role

Knight Frank’s global Capital Markets division is renowned for its expertise in executing high-profile real estate transactions worldwide. Supported by a team of specialist market research analysts, our network spans five core hubs: the UK, the Americas, Europe, the Middle East, and Asia. Within the Middle East, our Capital Markets team has established itself as a market leader, focusing on both outbound capital flows with a global reach and regional investment advisory. Our clients include a diverse range of entities, from family offices and institutions to sovereign wealth funds.

We are seeking an experienced Associate Partner to join our dynamic team in the Middle East. In this pivotal role, you will provide comprehensive deal support for both buy-side and sell-side transactions across the region. You will collaborate closely with Knight Frank’s global Capital Markets teams in key international hubs, as well as with our extensive network of offices throughout the Middle East. This position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to high-impact transactions while leveraging Knight Frank’s global resources and expertise.

Key Responsibilities

• Deal Support and Execution: Provide expert support to senior team members on existing instructions across multiple geographies, ensuring seamless transaction management and client service.
• Financial Analysis and Modelling: Develop bespoke and detailed cash flow models using advanced Excel skills. Create accurate cash flow projections and assist with comprehensive investment analysis to inform strategic decision-making.
• Documentation and Reporting: Collate and present requirements, leads, and opportunities for team discussion. Assist in preparing investment memorandums, presentations, and other detailed documents to support client engagements.
• Data Management: Construct and maintain secure data rooms, review lease agreements, and draft detailed commercial term sheets to facilitate transaction processes.
• Client Relationship Management: Develop and nurture strong working relationships with key investors across the region. Maintain confidentiality, trust, and professionalism to uphold the firm’s reputation and foster long-term client partnerships.
• Market Intelligence: Create, update, and maintain deal and capital trackers, as well as other relevant databases. Provide regular market reports in collaboration with research teams to deliver actionable insights.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Work closely with research teams to prepare presentations and research documents on industry trends, market dynamics, and investment opportunities.
• Strategic Guidance: Offer clients expert guidance on transaction processes, present potential opportunities, and refer business leads or fee-earning opportunities to other regional and global business units.
• Operational Excellence: Perform additional tasks as required to support the team’s objectives and maintain high standards of service delivery.

Skills and Qualifications

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Real Estate Finance, Development, or Investment. Alternatively, a degree in Finance or Accounting is acceptable.
• Experience: Minimum of 8 years in a similar role, with a proven track record of deal-making in the real estate sector in Saudi Arabia. A strong network of professional contacts is essential.
• Technical Proficiency: Sound understanding of commercial lease terms and their impact on asset valuation. Familiarity with valuation methodologies and adherence to Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) professional standards.
• Core Competencies:
  • Excellent communication and presentation skills, with the ability to articulate complex concepts clearly and persuasively.
  • Strong problem-solving and decision-making abilities, coupled with financial acumen.
  • Exceptional report writing skills and meticulous attention to detail.
  • Ability to work collaboratively in a team-oriented environment while managing multiple priorities.
  • Capacity to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic setting with a focus on results and client satisfaction.
  • Commitment to maintaining confidentiality and handling sensitive information with the utmost discretion.
• Adaptability: Flexibility to work across different time zones and accommodate varying working weeks to meet client and team demands.
• Cultural Awareness: Deep understanding of regional business culture and regulatory frameworks to navigate transactions effectively.
• Technical Skills: Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office programs, including Excel, Word, and PowerPoint. Familiarity with Knight Frank’s internal systems is advantageous.
• Language Requirements: Fluency in English, both written and verbal. Fluency in Arabic or other regional languages is a significant advantage.
• Travel: Willingness to travel as required to support client engagements and business development initiatives.
• Certifications: Membership in the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (MRICS) is desirable but not mandatory.