Financial Crime Compliance Manager

Job Purpose

The CDD, FATCA & CRS Team Head is responsible for leading and overseeing the Customer Due Diligence function, with a particular focus on high-risk customers. The role ensures that all onboarding and periodic review activities are conducted in full compliance with CBUAE AML/CFT regulations, FATCA, CRS, and internal policies, while maintaining strong governance, quality standards, and regulatory readiness.

Job Dimensions

Staff Supervision:

• Direct Reports: CDD / FATCA / CRS Officers
• Total Team Size: [4]

Key Accountabilities

A. Customer Due Diligence & Financial Crime Oversight

1. Lead, manage, and approve onboarding and KYC reviews for high-risk customers, including Enhanced Due Diligence (EDD), in line with regulatory and internal requirements.
2. Ensure accurate assessment of customer risk profiles, ownership structures, source of funds/wealth, and business rationale.
3. Oversee the quality and consistency of account opening and KYC documentation for new and existing customers (retail and corporate).
4. Contribute to the identification, monitoring, and mitigation of financial crime risks related to onboarding and customer lifecycle management.

B. FATCA & CRS Compliance

1. Develop, implement, and maintain policies, procedures, and controls to ensure compliance with FATCA and CRS regulations, including timely updates in response to regulatory changes.
2. Oversee FATCA/CRS classification, self-certification validation, and ongoing monitoring of customers.
3. Participate in annual FATCA and CRS reporting, ensuring accuracy, completeness, and timely submission to relevant authorities.
4. Maintain comprehensive records and audit trails for all FATCA and CRS-related activities.
5. Provide technical guidance and training to staff involved in CDD, FATCA and CRS processes.

C. Quality Assurance, Governance & Regulatory Engagement

1. Conduct and oversee Quality Control (QC) and Quality Assurance (QA) reviews on CDD, KYC, and FATCA/CRS files to ensure compliance with regulatory standards.
2. Manage and respond to Requests for Information (RFIs) received from regulators, correspondent banks, and other authorities within agreed timelines.
3. Handle audit findings and regulatory observations related to AML, CFT, and Proliferation Financing (PF), including remediation and closure of action plans.
4. Participate in the annual Financial Crime Risk Assessment and contribute to the identification of inherent and residual risks.

D. Stakeholder Support & Compliance Culture

1. Act as a key point of contact for business units, providing guidance and support on CDD, FATCA, and CRS-related matters.
2. Promote a strong compliance culture across the bank through awareness, guidance, and adherence to policies, procedures, and codes of conduct.
3. Ensure all activities comply with CBUAE regulations, applicable banking laws, and internal governance frameworks.

5. Communications & Working Relationships

Internal:

• Financial Crime & Compliance
• Business Units (Retail, Corporate, Operations)
• Internal Audit, Risk Management, and Legal

External:

• Regulators and Competent Authorities
• Correspondent Banks
• Local and International Financial Institutions
• Head Office (if applicable)

6. Qualifications, Experience & Skills

Qualifications & Experience

• Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Commerce, Finance, or a related discipline.
• Minimum 5 years of hands-on experience in Customer Due Diligence and onboarding (retail and corporate), within a regulated financial institution.
• Strong working knowledge of CBUAE AML/CFT regulations.
• Solid understanding of FATCA and CRS requirements and reporting obligations.
• Maintain solid knowledge of legal documentation required for onboarding and KYC remediation.
• Compliance or AML certifications (e.g., CAMS, ICA, ACAMS, or equivalent) are an advantage.

Skills & Competencies

• Strong attention to detail and analytical skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to exercise sound judgment and make risk-based decisions.
• Strong stakeholder management and negotiation skills.
• Effective problem-solving and leadership capabilities.

7. Core Competencies

• Integrity and accountability
• Risk awareness and regulatory mindset
• Leadership and team development
• Decision-making and critical thinking
• Collaboration and influence