Director of Compliance

J. Awan & Partners; Riyadh; On-site; SAR 400,000 - 700,000; Full time

Job summary

J. Awan & Partners is seeking a Director of Compliance in Saudi Arabia to lead CMA liaison, oversee AML CTF programs, and guide client compliance implementations.

The role focuses on strengthening regulatory alignment, developing robust compliance frameworks, and expanding the compliance practice across the KSA. Ideal candidate has 10+ years in financial services, with 8+ years in compliance, and proven experience with regulatory authorities in KSA/MENA.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree from a leading university; CMA/regulatory compliance knowledge preferred.
• At least 10 years in the financial services sector with 8+ years in direct compliance roles.
• Experience dealing with regulatory authorities in the KSA and the wider MENA region.

Responsibilities

• Act as primary contact with CMA; monitor regulatory changes and update internal policies.
• Develop and update internal compliance policies and procedures; conduct risk assessments.
• Oversee MLRO responsibilities; implement AML CTF controls and monitor client onboarding/EDD/monitoring.
• Support business development and client engagement in compliance matters; represent JAP at events.

Skills

Regulatory compliance

AML CTF

Independence & self-motivation

Stakeholder management

Time management

Risk awareness

High-pressure execution

Education

Bachelor's degree

Law/Finance/Economics focus

Job description

Mission

Purpose of the Role

The Director

Compliance will report to the Executive Director of Operations and oversee a portfolio of client mandates while ensuring the delivery of industry-leading regulatory compliance and AML CTF programs across the KSA. The role is responsible for supporting clients in structuring and implementing robust compliance frameworks, maintaining strong regulatory alignment, and serving as a key point of coordination with relevant authorities. The Director will also contribute to JAC s growth strategy by converting existing company relationships into new business opportunities and driving the expansion of the compliance practice across the KSA.

12-18 Month Mission Outcomes

What Success Looks Like

Ensure full regulatory compliance with CMA requirements. All CMA filings submitted accurately and on time. No regulatory breaches.

Successful completion of audits without major findings.

Implement and maintain a robust AML CTF framework. 100% of client onboarding and monitoring processes comply with AML CTF policies.

Timely submission of SARs. Minimal compliance gaps identified in audits. Provide strategic compliance and advisory support to clients.

Positive client feedback on regulatory guidance. Enhanced client compliance programs with measurable improvements.

Strengthen business development and client engagement. New client acquisitions. Increased market share and revenue from compliance services.

Successful representation at industry events.

Conduct internal training and awareness programs. Completion of scheduled compliance and AML CTF training sessions. Staff demonstrate understanding through assessments or audits.

Audit, monitor, and improve compliance processes. Regular compliance reviews completed. Identified gaps addressed with corrective action.

Internal controls strengthened. Maintain accurate documentation and reporting. All compliance records, policies, and reports are audit-ready.

Timely submission of regulatory filings.

Foster leadership, team development, and company culture. Team members trained and coached. High engagement scores. Positive feedback from colleagues and clients.

Strong promotion of JAC brand and culture. Continuously improve compliance and AML CTF systems. Implementation of new processes, tools, or automation. Measurable reduction in compliance risks. Adoption of industry best practices.

Key Accountabilities

Regulatory Compliance Governance Responsibilities

Act as primary contact with CMA. Monitor and implement regulatory changes. Develop and update internal compliance policies and procedures. Conduct risk assessments and report to management and regulators.

Success Indicators

No regulatory breaches. All CMA filings submitted accurately and on time. Audit findings minimal or resolved promptly.

AML CTF Risk Management Responsibilities

Serve as MLRO. Implement AML CTF controls. Oversee client onboarding CDD/EDD and monitoring. Investigate suspicious transactions and maintain AML CTF records.

Success Indicators

100% compliance with AML CTF procedures. Timely submission of SARs. Compliance gaps identified and remediated.

Business Development Client Engagement Responsibilities

Leverage global relationships to source new business and onboard clients. Strengthen stakeholder relationships. Represent JAP at events and advise clients on compliance.

Success Indicators

New client acquisitions and revenue growth. Positive client feedback. Improved client compliance programs.

Training Awareness Responsibilities

Develop and deliver compliance and AML CTF training for staff and clients. Provide guidance on regulatory matters.

Success Indicators

Training sessions delivered on schedule. Staff demonstrate understanding through assessments or audits. High engagement in compliance culture.

Role-Specific Competencies

Regulatory Compliance Expertise

Ability to interpret, apply, and operationalize CMA regulations ensuring the firm and its clients remain fully compliant.

AML CTF Specialist Capability

Equipped to perform MLRO responsibilities, including investigations, SAR reporting, and oversight of CDD/EDD and monitoring processes.

Independence Self-Motivation

A highly motivated self-starter with the ability to work independently, manage sensitive matters, and problem-solve without constant supervision.

Stakeholder Influence Liaison Skills

Demonstrated capability in managing relationships with regulators, clients, and internal teams acting as a trusted compliance advisor.

Skills and Knowledge

Organizational Time Management

Strong ability to organize tasks, prioritize effectively, manage deadlines, and maintain structured compliance workflows.

Risk Regulatory Awareness

Up-to-date knowledge of regulatory requirements, AML CTF obligations, and risk indicators to support effective monitoring and oversight.

High-Pressure Execution

Significant ability to perform well in a fast-paced environment managing multiple compliance deliverables simultaneously.

Education

Minimum bachelor s degree from a leading university. Preferred concentration in law, finance, accounting, or economics.

Experience

Significant demonstrable experience dealing with regulatory authorities in the KSA and the wider MENA region. At least 10 years of overall industry experience. 8 years of direct compliance experience within the financial services industry. Direct experience creating and implementing regulatory compliance programs within a successful financial services organization.