Head of Compliance

Hala; Riyadh; On-site; SAR 100,000 - 140,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading fintech company in Saudi Arabia seeks a Compliance Manager to design and oversee its compliance framework. The role includes ensuring adherence to Saudi regulations, developing compliance policies, and managing relationships with regulators. Candidates should have a Bachelor's degree in a relevant field and strong knowledge in regulatory compliance and AML/CFT frameworks. Hala offers competitive compensation, personal development opportunities, and a diverse work culture.

Benefits

Inclusive culture

Competitive compensation packages

Regular training and learning stipend

Autonomy and mentoring

Qualifications

• Understanding of Saudi regulatory requirements and frameworks.
• Experience in compliance roles, especially in fintech or banking.
• Strong analytical skills to assess regulatory updates and compliance needs.

Responsibilities

• Design and oversee the compliance framework adhering to Saudi regulations.
• Develop and maintain compliance policies and procedures.
• Provide compliance training and promote a compliance culture.

Skills

Regulatory compliance knowledge

AML/CFT framework design

Strong legal and financial acumen

Risk management

Communication skills

Education

Bachelor's degree in Law, Finance, Business, or related field

Job description

Who Are We

HALA is a leading fintech player in the MENAP region that aims to redefine financial services and build the future bank of SMEs. HALA aims at empowering SMEs to start, run, and grow their businesses by providing them with cutting edge financial and technological tools.

HALA currently holds multiple entities in UAE, Saudi Arabia and Egypt (including HALA Payments, HALA Cashier and HALA Logistics) and offers solutions that enable merchants to digitize their payments as well as manage their sales and operations.

Founded in 2017, HALA is currently duly licensed by the Saudi Arabian Central Bank as well as the Financial Services Regulatory Authority (FSRA) in Abu Dhabi Global Market.

Responsible for designing, implementing, and overseeing the compliance framework of the company to ensure full adherence to Saudi regulatory requirements, internal policies, and ethical standards. The role acts as the primary liaison with regulators and ensures the business operates in a safe, compliant, and sustainable manner.

Key Responsibilities

Regulatory Compliance (Saudi Focus)

• Ensure ongoing compliance with applicable regulations including but not limited to:
• SAMA (Payments, Financing, EMI, BNPL, POS, etc.)
• CMA (if applicable)
• MISA (foreign ownership & licensing)
• ZATCA (VAT, tax, e-invoicing)
• AML/CFT laws issued by Saudi authorities
• Monitor regulatory updates, circulars, and guidelines and translate them into actionable internal policies
• Lead regulatory inspections, audits, and supervisory reviews

AML / CFT & Financial Crime

• Act as MLRO (Money Laundering Reporting Officer) where required
• Design and oversee AML/CFT framework including:
• KYC / KYB
• Sanctions screening
• Transaction monitoring
• STR / SAR reporting
• Ensure alignment with Saudi AML Law, FATF standards, and SAMA guidelines

Compliance Framework & Policies

• Develop and maintain compliance policies, procedures, and manuals
• Implement a risk-based compliance approach
• Establish compliance monitoring and testing programs
• Ensure compliance controls are embedded across products, operations, and technology

Advisory & Business Support

• Provide compliance guidance on:
• New products and services
• Partnerships, outsourcing, and vendors
• Marketing, pricing, and customer communications
• Participate in product approvals and change management processes
• Ensure compliance does not unnecessarily hinder business growth

Governance & Reporting

• Prepare compliance reports for:
• Senior Management
• Board / Board Committees
• Regulators
• Escalate material compliance breaches and regulatory risks
• Support enterprise risk management initiatives

Training & Compliance Culture

• Design and deliver compliance training programs for all staff
• Promote a strong compliance and ethics culture across the organization
• Ensure staff awareness of regulatory obligations and company policies

Regulatory Engagement

• Serve as the primary point of contact with regulators
• Manage regulatory filings, notifications, and approvals
• Support license applications, renewals, and scope expansions

Key Requirements

Education

• Bachelor's degree in Law, Finance, Business, or related field

What We Offer You

We believe you will love working at HALA!

• We have an inclusive and diverse culture that encourages innovation and flexibility in remote, in-office, and hybrid work setups.
• We offer highly competitive compensation packages, including the potential for shares.
• We prioritize personal development and offer regular training and an annual learning stipend to tackle new challenges and grow your career in a hyper-growth environment.
• Join a talented team of over 30 nationalities working in 7 countries and gain valuable experience in an exciting industry.
• We offer autonomy, mentoring, and challenging goals that create incredible opportunities for both you and the company.
• You will be given a lot of responsibility and trust. We believe that the best results come when the people responsible for a function are given the freedom to do what they think is best.

If you think you have what it takes to join a remarkable team #apply_now