Fortress Reappoints Charles Spetka to Lead Strategic Expansion in the Middle East
Fortress Investment Group, a prominent global investment management firm, has announced the return of Charles Spetka to the organization as Head of its Middle East operations. He will be based in the firm’s newly launched office within Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM), a strategic move that reflects Fortress’s growing commitment to deepening its presence in the Gulf region.
Spetka, a seasoned executive with more than two decades of experience in investment management and real estate finance, will oversee the firm’s strategic initiatives, business development, and capital-raising efforts throughout the Middle East. His leadership is expected to play a pivotal role in building Fortress’s platform in the region, fostering partnerships, and sourcing investment opportunities across diverse sectors.
A Strategic Leadership Appointment
The appointment of Mr. Spetka coincides with the opening of Fortress’s new office in ADGM, which was officially announced on May 14, 2025. This office represents a major milestone in the firm’s broader strategy to expand globally and meet increasing investor demand in emerging markets.
Spetka is no stranger to Fortress. He originally joined the firm through its acquisition of CW Financial Services, where he served as CEO. After nearly eight years with Fortress, he transitioned into board roles across several Fortress portfolio companies, including DoValue, Mammoth Freighters, and Aspire MRO. His return marks a full-circle moment as he takes the helm of one of Fortress’s most important new strategic regions.
“I am excited to take on this new role and lead Fortress’s strategic expansion in the Middle East region,” Spetka stated. “Having lived in the region for the past five years and having been part of the Fortress franchise for about 15 years, I am confident in our ability to build a highly successful operation in Abu Dhabi Global Market, especially as we tap into the exceptional local talent.”
Spetka’s appointment is more than symbolic—it reflects Fortress’s long-term view of the Middle East as a key pillar of its global investment strategy. His depth of experience in non-performing loan businesses, commercial real estate finance, and capital markets uniquely positions him to lead growth and operations in a region that is rapidly evolving into a global financial powerhouse.
Strengthening Fortress’s Global Footprint
The establishment of Fortress’s Abu Dhabi office comes at a time when the UAE and the broader Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) are experiencing unprecedented growth in financial services, infrastructure development, and technology investment. By situating its office in ADGM, Fortress gains proximity to sovereign wealth funds, institutional investors, and private capital that are actively seeking global opportunities and strategic partnerships.
Drew McKnight and Josh Pack, Co-CEOs of Fortress, expressed confidence in Spetka’s ability to lead this next phase of expansion. “We’re delighted to welcome Chuck back to Fortress,” they said. “His knowledge of the region and of the Fortress franchise will be a significant boost in helping us quickly scale our new Gulf operations. We look forward to developing ever-deeper relationships with capital partners, securing investment opportunities, and building relationships with other important stakeholders across the region.”
As Head of Middle East operations, Spetka will take on a multifaceted role. He will spearhead the firm’s regional investment strategy, cultivate local partnerships, and represent Fortress in high-level engagements across public and private sectors. His mandate includes expanding Fortress’s presence in sectors such as real estate, infrastructure, technology, and financial services—areas that align with both the firm’s strengths and the region’s economic development goals.
Aligning with Regional Growth and Talent
In addition to building out Fortress’s regional investment strategy, Spetka emphasized the importance of tapping into local talent in Abu Dhabi and beyond. “Our focus will be on both raising capital from and investing capital in the region across a variety of sectors, as we seek to support the development of the Gulf’s already dynamic economies and bring their growing expertise to economies across the globe,” he said.
The UAE and broader GCC markets have positioned themselves as global hubs for innovation, finance, and cross-border collaboration. By embedding itself within this ecosystem, Fortress aims to become a go-to partner for capital allocators and institutional investors looking to diversify portfolios and capitalize on growth opportunities in both developed and emerging markets.
Long-Term Vision and Collaborative Strategy
Fortress’s Middle East strategy is not just about accessing capital—it’s about deploying it strategically. The firm plans to collaborate closely with regional stakeholders to identify and execute high-impact investments. By combining Fortress’s global investment platform with local expertise and data-driven insights, the firm aims to create long-term value while minimizing risk.
Spetka’s leadership will be instrumental in achieving this vision. His track record in managing complex transactions, working with regulators, and aligning investment strategy with macroeconomic realities gives Fortress a strong foundation as it enters a new chapter in the Middle East.
About Fortress Investment Group
Fortress Investment Group LLC is a leading, highly diversified global investment manager. Founded in 1998, Fortress manages $50 billion of assets under management as of 31 December 2024, on behalf of approximately 2,000 institutional clients and private investors worldwide across a range of credit and real estate, private equity and permanent capital investment strategies.
AUM refers to assets Fortress manages, including capital that Fortress has the right to call from investors, or investors are otherwise required to contribute, pursuant to their capital commitments to various funds or managed accounts.
