Associate Director - Financial Crime Risk

Dubai, UAE

A highly respected organisation within the financial services sector is seeking an experienced Associate Director – Financial Crime Risk to join its growing team in Dubai.

This is an excellent opportunity for a senior financial crime professional to take on a leadership role focused on financial crime risk oversight, regulatory engagement, strategic initiatives and team management within a dynamic and evolving environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and develop a team of financial crime professionals, providing technical guidance and mentorship.
• Oversee financial crime risk activities across a diverse portfolio of financial services businesses.
• Drive a risk-based approach to the identification, assessment and mitigation of AML, CFT and sanctions-related risks.
• Contribute to strategic initiatives, business planning and policy development.
• Provide subject matter expertise on financial crime risk and regulatory developments.
• Engage with senior stakeholders, executive management and external counterparties on complex financial crime matters.
• Monitor emerging risks, industry trends and international best practices.
• Lead or contribute to cross-functional projects and regulatory initiatives.
• Ensure high-quality reporting, documentation and risk assessments are delivered in a timely manner.

Candidate Profile

• Bachelor's degree in Finance, Business, Economics, Accounting, Risk Management or a related discipline.
• Minimum 10 years of experience within financial services, financial crime compliance, risk management, regulatory oversight or related functions.
• Previous experience managing teams and leading complex projects or initiatives.
• Strong expertise in AML, CFT, sanctions and financial crime risk management frameworks.
• Experience engaging with senior stakeholders, executive committees, boards and external authorities.
• Strong understanding of governance, risk management and regulatory expectations within financial services.
• Excellent communication, analytical and stakeholder management skills.
• Professional certifications such as ACAMS, CFA, FRM or equivalent would be advantageous.

Preferred Background

Applications are particularly welcomed from professionals currently working within:

• Banking & Financial Services
• Financial Crime Compliance
• Risk Management
• Regulatory & Advisory Functions
• Consulting Firms specialising in Financial Services
• Public Sector or Regulatory Environments

What's on Offer

• Senior leadership opportunity with significant visibility and impact.
• Exposure to complex financial crime and risk management challenges.
• Opportunity to contribute to strategic decision-making and organisational development.
• Collaborative and high-performing professional environment.
• Competitive remuneration package and long-term career prospects.

Due to the confidential nature of this search, additional information will be shared with shortlisted candidates.