Position title
Independent Non-Executive Director — Chair of the Audit Committee
Description

Confidential search | International (Dubai-based board) | Three-year initial term
NED Capital is retained on a confidential basis to identify an Independent Non-Executive Director to chair the Audit Committee of a privately owned, international specialty chemicals group.

The organisation
Our client is an independent, privately owned specialty chemical distributor and manufacturer operating across Asia, the Middle East, and Africa. With 1,300+ employees across 40+ countries and 150+ sites, the group is organised across five business units spanning coatings and construction, food ingredients, life sciences, energy and petrochemicals, and advanced materials. It is privately held with no public reporting obligations, operates an ISO 9001:2015-certified quality management system, and is committed to Responsible Care® and a UN SDG-linked ESG agenda.

The role
Reporting to the Chair, you will provide independent oversight and constructive challenge to the executive on financial and strategic matters. As Chair of the Audit Committee you will set its agenda, lead oversight of financial-reporting integrity and internal control, oversee risk management, and own the relationship with the internal and external auditors. You will serve as the Committee's designated financial expert and contribute to wider board discussions on strategy.

Responsibilities

Commitment and arrangements
The role carries an initial three-year term, subject to annual re-confirmation. It involves approximately 12 meetings per year, four of which are held in person at the client's offices — international, most likely Dubai. Candidates must therefore be open to international travel, which is fully expensed. Remaining meetings are held remotely. The appointee need not be UAE-based and may be based in Europe or elsewhere.

What we're looking for

Current or recent Non-Executive Director experience, including service as Chair of an Audit Committee
Former CFO of a multinational of approximately US$1–5 billion in annual revenue
Financial expertise sufficient to act as the Audit Committee's designated financial expert, with a current command of accounting standards, financial reporting, and internal control
Sector experience in chemicals, specialty chemicals, or chemical distribution
Significant international experience across emerging markets in at least two of Asia, the Middle East, Africa, or Latin America, combined with senior experience in European corporate environments (GCC experience preferred but not essential)
30+ years' total experience

Qualifications

A recognised professional accounting qualification (ACA, ACCA, CPA, CA, CIMA or equivalent); a corporate-governance or director credential (e.g. IoD Chartered Director, GCC BDI) is advantageous

Contacts

This is a confidential search. To express interest or request a confidential discussion, please contact Adrian Lawrence FCA at NED Capital.
NED Capital | Sister practice of FD Capital | ICAEW practising certificate held by Adrian Lawrence FCA

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Non-Executive Director (Legal)
Beginning of employment
1st August 2026
Duration of employment
Perm
Industry
Chemicals
Job Location
Remote work from: United Kingdom
Working Hours
9-5
Base Salary
£40,000-£45,000 Per year
Date posted
June 29, 2026
Valid through
July 31, 2026
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Position: Independent Non-Executive Director — Chair of the Audit Committee

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