AML Alert Manager | Abu Dhabi, UAE

ADIB - Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank; Abu Dhabi; On-site; AED 150,000 - 200,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading financial institution in Abu Dhabi seeks an AML Alert Manager to oversee compliance with AML/CFT regulations. The role involves policy development, team management, and ensuring adherence to regulatory standards across various locations. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in compliance and strong leadership skills.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 7 years banking experience, with 5 years in compliance.
• Knowledge of UAE regulations and FATF guidelines.

Responsibilities

• Implement AML/CFT compliance strategy across all branches.
• Oversee AML/CFT programs and monitor alerts.
• Lead the Level 3 AML & CTF Alerts Investigation Team.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Analytical Skills

Fluency in English

Education

Professional qualification in AML/Compliance

Tools

MS Office

Job description

AML Alert Manager

ADIB - Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates

Job Description

Role: AML Alert Manager
Location: Abu Dhabi

Role Purpose:

The AML Alerts Manager is responsible for implementing the Group-wide AML/CFT Program across all branches, subsidiaries, and international locations including ADIB Sudan, Iraq, and Qatar. The role involves providing Subject Matter Expertise (SME) advice on AML/CFT regulations, writing AML/CFT policies and procedures, delivering training, and ensuring compliance with applicable regulations. The manager will oversee AML/CFT systems, review the AML/CFT program periodically, and escalate breaches to senior management promptly.

Key Accountabilities:

1. Implement the Group's AML/CFT compliance strategy ensuring alignment with departmental and organizational goals.
2. Maintain and communicate updated AML/CFT policies and procedures to all stakeholders.
3. Oversee the implementation of AML/CFT programs across the Group to address current and future risks.
4. Stay informed of relevant laws, regulations, and best practices; collaborate with local MLROs to ensure compliance.
5. Monitor alerts received from AML systems; ensure thorough investigation and conclusive results in line with regulations.
6. Manage daily, weekly, and monthly AML alert reviews and investigations within set service levels and regulatory timeframes.
7. Supervise the AML Compliance Operation Center (COC) functions, including team performance, QA reviews, and MIS reporting.
8. Ensure the team is updated on regulatory changes and uplift existing procedures accordingly.
9. Guarantee proper investigations, reporting, and controls at each step of the investigative workflow.
10. Monitor team productivity and ensure timely action on alerts.
11. Serve as SME, coach staff, and promote ongoing education and career development.
12. Review high-profile AML investigations requiring confidentiality, including terrorism financing and litigation cases.
13. Conduct performance evaluations for team members.
14. Ensure investigations are completed accurately and promptly.
15. Perform background checks and enhanced due diligence on current or prospective clients and third parties.
16. Lead the Level 3 AML & CTF Alerts Investigation Team, providing guidance and advice on suspicious activities.
17. Advise the business on evaluating AML & CTF risks and managing suspicious transactions.
18. Ensure KPIs for the team are met and drive continuous process improvements.
19. Participate in designing AML system scenarios, rules, and algorithms for detecting suspicious activities.
20. Facilitate communication with the business and compliance teams to resolve AML alerts and cases.
21. Support organizational initiatives and staff training to maintain a motivated and skilled team.
22. Provide leadership, guidance, and coaching to the AML & CTF Level 3 team.
23. Assist in implementing organizational initiatives related to AML compliance.

Technical Skills / Qualifications:

• Professional qualification or industry-recognized certification in AML/Compliance (e.g., AAMs, ICS, ACFCS, FIBA).
• Extensive experience in AML & CTF procedures, systems, and policies.
• Strong knowledge of UAE regulations, FATF guidelines, Basel recommendations, and international standards.
• Proven leadership and management skills.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, capable of engaging with senior management.
• Analytical skills for reviewing compliance procedures and IT systems.
• Ability to balance compliance requirements with business needs.
• Fluency in English; knowledge of Arabic is an advantage.
• Proficiency in MS Office applications.

Experience Requirements:

• Minimum of 7 years banking experience, with at least 5 years in a compliance role within a financial institution.
• At least 4 years of experience investigating white-collar and economic crimes.