Head of Compliance & MLRO

Austin Werner; Dubai; On-site; AED 200,000 - 300,000; Full time

Job summary

A startup in the financial sector in Dubai seeks a Head of Compliance & MLRO to lead compliance and AML initiatives. The ideal candidate will have extensive compliance management experience, particularly in the Broker Dealer and Crypto Exchange sectors. You will be responsible for developing compliance policies and ensuring adherence to regulations, while engaging with top consultancies during the licensing process. UAE residency is required.

Qualifications

• Extensive experience in a compliance management role, with 3-5 years in a senior leadership position.
• Strong experience in financial services, focusing on Broker Dealers and Crypto Exchanges.
• Track record of engaging with MENA region regulators.

Responsibilities

• Oversee all aspects of regulatory compliance and AML activities.
• Develop and implement compliance policies and procedures.
• Serve as the Money Laundering Reporting Officer (MLRO).

Skills

Compliance management

AML Reporting

Regulatory compliance

Risk assessment

Strong analytical skills

Excellent communication skills

Job description

Overview

Head of Compliance & MLRO – Digital Assets, Dubai

Role is paying 40k AED - 55k AED a month - must be a UAE resident. A self-funded and HNW backed start-up in Dubai is looking for the Head of Compliance & MLRO to lead the Broker Dealer VARA license process. You will be working with one of the MENA region's top consultancies during the application process, which will progress to a Crypto Exchange licensing strategy.

This is an excellent opportunity to work with a newly established entity, led by entrepreneurs with a proven track record of building and scaling. You will oversee all aspects of regulatory compliance and AML activities and play a critical role in ensuring the start-up’s adherence to regulatory frameworks. The role requires a strategic leader who can manage compliance risks, develop and implement effective compliance programs and foster a culture of integrity and accountability.

Responsibilities

• Operate as the epicentre for all Compliance, Licensing, AML Reporting and Risk requirements.
• Work closely with a top MENA recognised consultancy during the Broker Dealer application process with VARA.
• Develop and implement compliance policies and procedures, including a Business Continuity and Disaster Recovery Plan, oversee the implementation of the ABC policy whilst monitoring its effectiveness.
• Assess, plan and solve emerging issues and risks within the business.
• Report on critical compliance activities and audits to the board.
• Serve as the Money Laundering Reporting Officer (MLRO) for the company, ensuring compliance with all AML laws and regulations.
• Oversee the implementation and maintenance of Know Your Customer (KYC) procedures, ensuring thorough due diligence is conducted on all clients.
• Monitor and report suspicious activities in line with regulatory requirements, and liaise with relevant authorities as needed.
• Identify, assess, and mitigate compliance risks associated with the company's operations, particularly in relation to cryptocurrency transactions.
• Develop and implement internal controls to minimize the risk of non-compliance and financial crime.
• Conduct regular risk assessments and audits to ensure ongoing compliance with regulatory requirements.

Qualifications

• Extensive experience in a compliance management role, with at least 3-5 years in a senior leadership position.
• Strong experience in the financial services sector, with a focus on Broker Dealer and Crypto Exchanges.
• Track record of engaging with MENA region regulators (ideally VARA) as well as leading Crypto / Exchange registration / applications.
• Proven track record of developing and implementing compliance programs in a fast-paced, entrepreneurial and regulated environment.
• Strong analytical skills and the ability to interpret complex regulatory requirements.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to influence at all levels of the organization.
• You MUST be a UAE resident in order to be considered for this role.

If you are a hands-on Compliance leader with a passion for revolutionizing the regulatory landscape across the Crypto industry then please apply now with your latest CV.