Job Title: Director Compliance

Reports To: Deputy CEO

Location: Abu Dhabi –(UAE) with the expectation to travel as necessary to other operating jurisdictions.

Direct Reports: N/A

About j. awan & partners

At j. awan & partners, we believe in challenging the status quo every day, delivering seamless excellence to our customers across the world. We challenge the status quo by making tailor-made solutions to meet the specific requirements of our client's business interests and delivering our solutions to their needs with effective simplicity. We understand that time is precious and as such our tailor-made solutions are simple to understand, simple to embed and simple to use.

We are a fast-growing international Governance, Risk and Compliance (GRC) Consultancy with our headquarters in the Dubai International Finance Centre (DIFC). We also have our own Technology company creating bespoke cutting edge RegTech solutions. Our business presence covers multiple jurisdictions with offices in the UAE, KSA, UK & Ireland, Singapore, Porto, Pakistan, Qatar and now in South Africa. We provide Regulatory Governance, Risk, Compliance, Finance, Recruitment and Technology services (the Services) to a large number of clients including global, regional and local financial services institutions, governments and other industry partners. As part of our global expansion plan, we are now looking for an ambitious and agile professional with a strong background in Compliance to join our team.

Mission / Purpose of the Role

The Director – Compliance will report to the Deputy CEO and oversee a portfolio of client mandates while ensuring the delivery of industry-leading regulatory compliance and AML/CTF programs across Abu Dhabi and the wider UAE. 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. In addition, the Director will contribute to JAP's growth strategy by converting existing company relationships into new business opportunities and driving the expansion of the compliance practice across the UAE.

12–18 Month Mission Outcomes (What Success Looks Like)

Mission / Outcome → Success Metrics / Measures

1) Ensure full regulatory compliance with ADGM/FSRA requirements

All FSRA filings submitted accurately and on time
No regulatory breaches
Successful completion of audits without major findings

2) 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

3) Provide strategic compliance and advisory support to clients

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

4) Strengthen business development and client engagement

New client acquisitions
Increased market share and revenue from compliance services
Successful representation at industry events

5) Conduct internal training and awareness programs

Completion of scheduled compliance and AML/CTF training sessions
Staff demonstrate understanding through assessments or audits

6) Audit, monitor, and improve compliance processes

Regular compliance reviews completed
Identified gaps addressed with corrective action
Internal controls strengthened

7) Maintain accurate documentation and reporting

All compliance records, policies, and reports are audit-ready
Timely submission of regulatory filings

8) Foster leadership, team development, and company culture

Team members trained and coached
High engagement scores; positive feedback from colleagues and clients
Strong promotion of JAP brand and culture

9) 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

Key Responsibilities

Act as primary contact with ADGM/FSRA; 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 FSRA filings submitted accurately and on time.
Audit findings minimal or resolved promptly.

AML/CTF & Risk Management

Key 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

Key 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

Key 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.

Audit & Monitoring

Key Responsibilities
Coordinate internal and external audits.
Conduct compliance reviews and spot checks.
Identify and remediate control weaknesses.

Success Indicators

Compliance reviews completed on schedule.
Gaps addressed with corrective action.
Strengthened internal controls.

Documentation & Reporting

Key Responsibilities
Maintain records of compliance activities, policies, and reporting.
Ensure audit readiness and prepare regulatory filings.

Success Indicators

All documentation audit-ready.
Timely submission of reports and filings.

Leadership & Communication

Key Responsibilities
Communicate compliance risks and obligations to senior management.
Foster relationships with stakeholders, auditors, regulators, and clients.
Represent consultancy professionally.

Success Indicators

Effective risk communication.
Strong stakeholder relationships and professional representation at all levels.

Continuous Improvement

Key Responsibilities
Stay updated on regulatory developments.
Refine compliance/AML systems, processes, and training.
Implement best practices.

Success Indicators

Implementation of improved processes/tools.
Measurable reduction in compliance risk.
Adoption of industry best practices.

Personal & Team Responsibilities

Key Responsibilities
Promote JAP culture and brand.
Support recruitment, training, and retention.
Coach and develop team members.

Success Indicators

High employee engagement.
Strong team performance.
Positive feedback on leadership and coaching.

Core Competencies

Adaptability & Problem-Solving

A highly capable individual who can overcome challenges, adjust to new ways of working, and consistently deliver results in dynamic regulatory environments.

Collaboration & Partnership Building

Proven ability to build strong partnerships, collaborate effectively, and influence clients, team members, and regulators.

Analytical Excellence

Demonstrates strong analytical skills with the ability to assess complex regulatory issues, interpret data, and make informed compliance decisions.

Communication Mastery

Exceptional oral and written communication skills, with the ability to interact professionally and confidently at all levels — internally and with clients, auditors, and regulators.

Role-Specific Competencies

Regulatory & Compliance Expertise

Ability to interpret, apply, and operationalize ADGM/FSRA 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 UAE 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
Additional Requirements: CAMS, CISI, or ICA certifications are highly desired
Professional Integrity & Accountability:Maintains confidentiality, demonstrates reliability, follows instructions with discipline, and upholds ethical and professional standards across all responsibilities.

Director of Compliance