Compliance Officer

We are seeking an experienced and highly skilled Compliance Officer & MLRO to join our team, with a focus on supporting our compliance function. The ideal candidate will have a strong understanding of the DIFC or ADGM regulatory framework (particularly Category 3C or Category 4) and demonstrate expertise across a broad range of compliance and AML activities. This is an excellent opportunity for a compliance professional to contribute to and influence a strong culture of regulatory integrity and operational excellence.

Key Responsibilities:

• Design, review, and revise compliance policies, procedures, and internal controls to ensure alignment with applicable legislation, regulatory requirements, and industry best practices.
• Oversee all aspects of client and business partner onboarding, conduct of business monitoring, compliance training, and regulatory reporting.
• Conduct due diligence and ongoing AML reviews for new and existing clients and business partners.
• Serve as the key point of contact with regulators for all AML/CFT and sanctions-related matters, ensuring the implementation of effective and sustainable controls.
• Lead and manage all regulatory communications, correspondence, and meetings with regulatory authorities.
• Monitor and enhance systems and controls to identify and mitigate AML risks, addressing any gaps through pragmatic and actionable solutions.
• Prepare compliance reports for senior management, auditors, and external regulatory bodies as required.
• Stay current with regulatory changes and evolving best practices, conducting gap and impact analysis for timely adaptation.
• Provide timely, accurate support on compliance-related queries from both internal and external stakeholders.
• Review marketing materials and communications to ensure compliance with regulatory and scheme requirements.
• Contribute to operational risk management by identifying, evaluating, and mitigating potential risks, and recommending process improvements.
• Oversee and monitor compliance progress across our entities in different jurisdictions.

Qualifications & Experience:

• Minimum of 5 years of industry experience, with at least 2 years in a compliance and AML-focused role within wealth management/investments.
• Bachelor's degree in business administration or a related field.
• Qualified CISI or ACAMS professional.
• Prior experience working in compliance consultancies supporting Category 3C or 4 firms within ADGM or DIFC, or in financial institutions, is highly preferred.
• Strong technical knowledge of key regulatory areas including AML/CFT, sanctions, conduct of business rules, FATCA/CRS, and data protection.

Skills

• High level of accuracy and attention to detail in all aspects of work.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills in English.
• Strong leadership skills with the ability to manage and motivate teams effectively.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively across departments.
• Strong understanding of risk assessment and compliance monitoring methodologies.
• Proficiency in compliance and regulatory reporting tools.
• Strong report-writing skills, with the ability to communicate regulatory matters clearly to senior management.