API Governance Lead

First Abu Dhabi Bank

Job Title
API Governance Lead Abu Dhabi, UAE
Job Description
API Governance Lead Abu Dhabi, UAE

Position Overview
First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB) is hiring an experienced API Governance Lead to define and implement enterprise-level API frameworks that support digital transformation and platform integration. The role requires strong expertise in API product lifecycle management, governance, and strategy, ensuring APIs are developed as reusable, secure, and scalable assets that deliver measurable business value.

Job Details
Location: United Arab Emirates
Location: Abu Dhabi
Industry: Information Technology (IT)
Function: Software Engineering / Development
Gender: Any
Candidate Nationality: Any
Candidate Preferred Location: Any
Job Type: Full-time

What You ll Do

* Define and implement API governance frameworks with focus on consistency, scalability, and security
* Drive the API technical product strategy to enable digital platforms and ecosystems
* Manage the API lifecycle from design through retirement, ensuring reuse and standardization
* Oversee the API catalog and developer portal to improve discoverability and usability
* Lead onboarding of internal and external API consumers with compliance and ease of integration
* Establish and track KPIs for API adoption, performance, and ROI
* Conduct API design reviews to align with enterprise architecture and governance standards
* Promote API-first principles, modular design, and reusability across business units
* Ensure compliance with regulations including Open Banking, PSD2, GDPR, and HIPAA
* Support troubleshooting, incident management, and continuous improvement of API platforms

Ideal Profile

* 15+ years overall IT experience with at least 10 years in banking technology
* Proven ability to translate business needs into API-driven solutions
* Strong expertise in REST, GraphQL, gRPC, API gateways, and service mesh architectures
* Skilled in API governance, lifecycle management, and deprecation strategies
* Experience with cloud-native services, Kubernetes, and API management tools (e.g., Kong)
* Familiarity with regulatory frameworks impacting APIs and financial technology
* Strong leadership, communication, and stakeholder engagement skills
* Ability to mentor teams and evangelize API adoption across the enterprise

Why Join Us

* Lead digital transformation initiatives at the UAE s largest financial institution
* Work with advanced technologies and global-scale banking platforms
* Competitive salary and benefits package in a dynamic financial hub
* Professional development and career advancement opportunities within FAB s global network
* Contribute to a future-focused organization known for safety, growth, and innovation