Compliance Manager & MLRO

GG Selection; Dubai; On-site; AED 120,000 - 200,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading professional services firm in Dubai is seeking a Compliance Manager to oversee regulatory compliance and risk management. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in AML/CFT practices, strong leadership skills, and a background within UAE regulatory frameworks. This role offers the opportunity to lead a compliance function, and ideal candidates will possess strong stakeholder management skills and a strategic mindset. Application submissions are preferred through GulfTalent.

Benefits

Opportunity to lead compliance function

Collaborative leadership culture

Exposure to multi-jurisdictional clients

Qualifications

• 6–8 years’ experience in compliance, with 3–5 years in a leadership role.
• Proven experience as MLRO within the UAE (ADGM or DIFC).
• Strong background in professional services or regulatory environments.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design and maintenance of compliance frameworks aligned with UAE regulations.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for AML/CFT matters.
• Advise on legal and regulatory alignment of incorporation documents.

Skills

Regulatory compliance experience

AML/CFT knowledge

Stakeholder management

Risk management

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Law, Finance, or Business

Advanced degree in Compliance or Risk Management

Certified AML Specialist (CAMS, ICA, or equivalent)

Job description

Responsibilities

Regulatory Compliance & Risk Management

• Lead the design and maintenance of a robust compliance framework aligned with UAE (ADGM/DIFC) and international regulations.
• Manage clients’ annual regulatory obligations to ensure full compliance.
• Monitor regulatory developments and advise management on potential impacts.
• Oversee compliance risk assessments, control measures, and policy enhancements.
• Act as the main liaison with regulators, authorities, and financial intelligence units.

MLRO Duties

• Serve as the firm’s primary point of contact for AML/CFT matters and suspicious activity reporting.
• Develop and enforce AML/CFT policies and procedures in line with ADGM, DFSA, and UAE standards.
• Conduct AML/CFT risk assessments and ensure robust KYC and client onboarding processes.

Governance & Advisory

• Advise on incorporation documents, resolutions, and filings to ensure legal and regulatory alignment.
• Provide expert compliance guidance to clients and internal teams on corporate governance and ongoing obligations.

Leadership & Culture

• Lead, mentor, and develop the compliance team to drive operational excellence and a proactive compliance culture.
• Deliver internal training to enhance compliance awareness and best practices across departments.
• Champion integrity, accountability, and continuous improvement across all levels of the organization.

Qualifications

Education & Certifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Law, Finance, or Business (mandatory).
• Advanced degree in Compliance or Risk Management (preferred).
• Certified AML Specialist (CAMS, ICA, or equivalent) – mandatory.

Experience

• 6–8 years’ experience in compliance, with 3–5 years in a leadership role.
• Proven experience as MLRO within the UAE (ADGM or DIFC essential).
• Strong background in professional services, financial institutions, or regulatory environments.
• Demonstrated ability to manage and mentor compliance professionals.

Knowledge & Skills

• In-depth understanding of UAE regulatory frameworks (DFSA, ADGM).
• Comprehensive knowledge of AML/CFT, FATF guidelines, sanctions regimes, and data protection laws.
• Excellent stakeholder management and communication skills.
• Strategic mindset with a focus on risk mitigation and operational efficiency.

Benefits

• Opportunity to lead the compliance function within a respected and expanding professional services firm.
• Collaborative leadership culture with a focus on professional growth and innovation.
• Exposure to multi-jurisdictional clients and complex regulatory environments.

How to Apply

Submit your CV via GulfTalent, highlighting relevant regulatory experience and MLRO credentials. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.