Compliance Officer & MLRO

Department: Compliance

Location: Dubai

Description

Overview of the role
We are seeking an experienced Compliance Officer & MLRO to oversee and manage the firm's compliance framework and anti-money laundering (AML) obligations in accordance with DFSA rules and UAE legislation. The role is a DFSA Licensed Function and will act as the primary point of contact with the DFSA on compliance and financial crime matters.

Key Responsibilities

Compliance Officer Responsibilities

· Develop, implement, and maintain the firm's compliance framework in line with DFSA Rules.

· Monitor regulatory developments and assess their impact on the firm's activities.

· Provide compliance advice to senior management and staff on regulatory obligations.

· Conduct compliance monitoring, thematic reviews, and risk assessments.

· Prepare and submit regulatory filings, notifications, and reports to the DFSA.

· Manage regulatory inspections, reviews, and ongoing communications with the DFSA.

· Deliver compliance training to staff and promote a strong compliance culture.

· Maintain policies, procedures, and compliance manuals.

MLRO Responsibilities

· Act as the firm's MLRO under DFSA and UAE AML legislation.

· Establish and maintain the firm's AML/CFT framework, including KYC, CDD, EDD, sanctions, and PEP screening.

· Receive, investigate, and assess internal suspicious transaction reports.

· File Suspicious Activity Reports (SARs) with the UAE Financial Intelligence Unit (goAML) where required.

· Conduct enterprise-wide AML risk assessments and ongoing monitoring.

· Liaise with regulators and law enforcement authorities on AML matters.

· Provide AML/CFT training to staff.

Skills, Knowledge and Expertise

· Extensive experience in compliance and AML roles within a DFSA-regulated firm, ideally Category 3 or 3C.

· Proven experience acting as, or being approved as, a Compliance Officer and/or MLRO.

· Strong knowledge of DFSA Rules, UAE AML laws, and international AML standards.

· Experience dealing directly with the DFSA and managing regulatory relationships.

· Ability to operate independently in a senior control function role.

· Strong analytical, communication, and report-writing skills.

· Bachelor's degree in law, finance, business, or a related field.

· Relevant professional qualifications (e.g., ICA, ACAMS) are highly desirable.

· Proficiency in English is essential; Arabic language skills would be advantageous

Benefits

• 22 Days holiday + bank holidays
• Private medical insurance
• DEWS contribution scheme
  
  

Diversity & Inclusion

We believe that diversity and inclusion are essential to our success. We are committed to fostering a culture where everyone feels valued and respected, regardless of their background, identity or experiences. By embracing diverse perspectives and promoting equity, we aim to create an environment where all employees can perform and reach their full potential.

What's next

• We will review your application and come back to you as soon as possible.
• You must be eligible to work in the UK to be considered for this position.
• Full background checks will be carried out