Compliance officer & MLRO

Dubai, United Arab Emirates

We are seeking an experienced and proactive Compliance Officer to join our team, with a focus on supporting our wealth management/investment operations. The ideal candidate will have a strong understanding of the ADGM or DIFC regulatory framework (particularly Category 3C or Category 4) and demonstrate expertise across a broad range of compliance and AML activities. This is an excellent opportunity for a compliance professional to contribute to and influence a strong culture of regulatory integrity and operational excellence.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, review, and revise compliance policies, procedures, and internal controls to ensure alignment with applicable legislation, regulatory requirements, and industry best practices.
• Oversee all aspects of client and business partner onboarding, trade surveillance, conduct of business monitoring, compliance training, and regulatory reporting.
• Promote and embed a strong compliance culture across the organization through engagement, training, and support.
• Conduct due diligence and ongoing AML reviews for new and existing clients and business partners.
• Serve as the key point of contact with regulators for all AML/CFT and sanctions-related matters, ensuring the implementation of effective and sustainable controls.
• Lead and manage all regulatory communications, correspondence, and meetings with regulatory authorities.
• Monitor and enhance systems and controls to identify and mitigate AML risks, addressing any gaps through pragmatic and actionable solutions.
• Prepare compliance reports for senior management, auditors, and external regulatory bodies as required.
• Stay current with regulatory changes and evolving best practices, conducting gap and impact analysis for timely adaptation.
• Provide timely, accurate support on compliance-related queries from both internal and external stakeholders.
• Review marketing materials and communications to ensure compliance with regulatory and scheme requirements.
• Contribute to operational risk management by identifying, evaluating, and mitigating potential risks, and recommending process improvements.
• Oversee and monitor compliance progress across our entities in different jurisdictions.

Candidate Profile

• Minimum of 5 years of industry experience, with at least 2 years in a compliance and AML-focused role within wealth management/investments.
• Prior experience working in compliance consultancies supporting Category 3C or 4 firms within ADGM or DIFC is highly preferred.
• Strong technical knowledge of key regulatory areas including AML/CFT, sanctions, conduct of business rules, FATCA/CRS, and data protection.
• Qualified CISI or ACAMS professional.
• Bachelor’s degree from a reputable institution.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills in English.
• Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving abilities.
• Detail-oriented, hands-on, and capable of working independently.
• High level of attention to detail and accuracy in all aspects of work.