Head of Compliance & MLRO — Dubai Regulatory Leader

المسمى الوظيفي

411_3426566

About the Role

We are seeking a Compliance & MLRO to lead risk and compliance for our Dubai entity. This is a compliance-first role, suited for a strong Head of Compliance who can build and embed a robust governance and control environment from the ground up.

You will work closely with the Group CRO to implement both group-level and UAE-specific governance frameworks, while acting as the primary liaison with the Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (VARA).

This role combines hands-on compliance execution with regulatory leadership, ensuring the entity operates in full alignment with UAE regulations and global standards.

المهام الأساسية

Compliance & Governance Leadership

• Lead the design, implementation, and ongoing enhancement of the UAE compliance framework across AML/CTF, sanctions, and regulatory requirements.

• Work closely with the Group CRO on group governance and UAE governance alignment.

• Establish and maintain strong internal controls, policies, and risk management frameworks.

• Partner with Internal Audit to ensure effective control testing and remediation.

• Support the compliance teams in Australia and Singapore, as required.

Financial Crime & AML Oversight

• Oversee AML/CTF program including KYC/CDD/EDD, transaction monitoring, sanctions, and investigations.

• Act as an escalation point for suspicious activity and approve STR/SAR filings.

• Maintain and enhance customer risk rating frameworks.

Risk Management

• Conduct enterprise and compliance risk assessments; implement mitigation strategies.

• Work with the business lines on managing and updating risk and compliance management measures.

• Advise business and product teams on compliance and risk implications of business activities.

• Ensure compliance risks are clearly reported to senior management and Board on a regular basis.

Policy, Controls & Training

• Develop and maintain policies, procedures, and compliance manuals.

• Drive a strong compliance culture through training and guidance.

• Ensure alignment with global best practices and internal standards.

Virtual Asset Compliance

• Oversee Travel Rule functions and VASP counterparty due diligence.

• Monitor on-chain activity and wallet risks using blockchain analytics tools.

• Ensure compliance with VARA-specific requirements including market conduct and consumer protection.

Regulatory Liaison (VARA)

• Act as the primary point of contact with VARA.

• Lead regulatory engagement including licensing, inspections, submissions, and ongoing compliance.

• Ensure timely and accurate regulatory reporting, disclosures, and incident notifications.

• Maintain Responsible Individual obligations under VARA.

Experience & Capabilities

• 7–10 years of experience in compliance, AML/CTF, or financial crime.

• Proven experience as a Compliance Manager with MLRO duties (or stepping into MLRO capacity).

• Strong regulatory experience and prior engagement with regulators.

• Experience in banking, fintech, payments, or digital assets.

• Knowledge of UAE regulatory environment (VARA experience preferred).

• AML/CFT certifications (e.g., CAMS, ICA) are advantageous.

• Ability to operate effectively while key business components are being built, and work closely with senior stakeholders.

What We Offer

• Competitive salary

• Opportunity to build and lead compliance in a high-growth market

• Collaborative, high-performance team

• Strong career development in a scaling global business

This is an in-office role, so please do not apply if you are looking for a hybrid or remote opportunity.

#J-18808-Ljbffr

2026-03-28 08:09:57