[ref. n80564620] Compliance Manager

Job Description

While the primary focus is on operations within the UAE, the role may also provide compliance oversight across the broader GCC region as the firm scales.

Reporting to the SEO, the Compliance Manager will carry out the dual regulated roles of Compliance Officer and MLRO as an FSRA Approved Person and will play a key role in the development, execution, and continuous improvement of the firms compliance programme. Key responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Ensure full compliance with FSRA regulations, including Conduct of Business, Fund Rules, AML Rulebook, and PFP Framework.
• Manage client onboarding, investor suitability checks, marketing material approvals, and thorough recordkeeping.
• Serve as the main point of contact for regulatory bodies such as FSRA and UAE FIU, managing submissions, notifications, and inspections.
• Develop, implement, and maintain comprehensive compliance and AML/CTF policies, procedures, and controls aligned with regulatory requirements.
• Lead AML risk assessments across customers, products, geographies, and delivery channels; oversee CDD, EDD, and periodic reviews for high-risk clients, including PEPs and institutions.
• Review suspicious activity reports (SARs), file STRs with relevant authorities, and provide AML/CTF training to employees and the board.
• Coordinate internal compliance audits, monitor emerging regulatory changes, and embed best practices across the business.
• Promote a culture of ethical conduct, compliance awareness, and risk mitigation throughout the organisation.
• Support the implementation and optimisation of compliance technology tools such as transaction monitoring and compliance dashboards.
• Investigate and resolve compliance breaches, customer complaints, and operational issues, ensuring corrective actions are taken.
• Provide advisory support to business teams to find compliant solutions that balance risk management with commercial objectives.

COMPETENCIES AND BEHAVIOURAL EXPECTATIONS:

• Bachelors degree in law, Finance, Business, or a related discipline. Professional certifications such as ICA Diploma, CAMS, CISI, or ACII are highly desirable.
• Minimum of 5 years experience in compliance and AML roles within regulated financial institutions, ideally with ADGM/FSRA or DIFC/DFSA exposure.
• Proven track record in regulatory reporting, compliance programme oversight, and AML/CTF risk management.
• Strong knowledge of wealth management, investment advisory, fund management, and PFP operations.
• Demonstrated ability to engage with regulators, lead inspections, and communicate effectively with senior management and board members.
• Familiarity with UAE federal laws and ADGM/FSRA regulations, including onshore UAE frameworks where applicable.
• Deep understanding of FSRA and ADGM rulebooks, including AML, COBS, Fund Rules, and Conduct standards.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present complex regulatory topics clearly.
• Strong analytical and investigative abilities with attention to detail and proactive problem-solving approach.
• Ability to manage multiple compliance functions simultaneously while maintaining high ethical standards.
• Collaborative mindset with proven ability to influence and advise cross-functional teams and senior stakeholders.
• Eligible to work in the UAE and able to obtain necessary FSRA approvals for controlled functions. Completion of probation will be contingent of successful approval by the FSRA.