Deputy MLRO
The Apex Group overview
The Apex Group was established in Bermuda in 2003 and is now one of the world's largest fund administration and middle office solutions providers. Our business is unique in its ability to reach globally, service locally, and provide cross-jurisdictional services. With our clients at the heart of everything we do, our hard-working team has successfully delivered on an unprecedented growth and transformation journey, and we are now represented by circa 13,000 employees across 112 offices worldwide.
Your career with us should reflect your energy and passion. That's why, at Apex Group, we will do more than simply empower you. We will work to supercharge your unique skills and experience. Take the lead and we'll give you the support you need to be at the top of your game. And we offer you the freedom to be a positive disrupter and turn big ideas into bold, industry-changing realities. For our business, for clients, and for you.
Department details
Department: Compliance
Location: Manama, Bahrain
Controlled function: DMLRO (as per CBB Rulebook)
Reporting line: Head of Compliance & MLRO, Bahrain
Role purpose
The DMLRO is the approved controlled function responsible for ensuring the company's compliance with all applicable AML/CFT and sanctions requirements under the CBB Rulebook. The role includes acting as the primary contact with the Anti-Financial Crime Directorate ("AFCD") at the CBB and Financial Intelligence Directorate ("FID") at the Ministry of Interior and ensuring effective identification, monitoring, and reporting of financial crime risks.
Responsibilities
Act as the company's DMLRO as required under the CBB Rulebook
Assist MLRO in discharge of duties
Act as MLRO in absence with full delegated authority
Ensure timely submission of Suspicious Transaction Reports (STRs)
Maintain appropriate records of internal reports and decisions
Report directly to the Board/Senior Management on AML matters when needed
Ensure independence and unrestricted access to information
Ensure timely submission of regulatory returns and reporting
Assist on the regulatory compliance activities and obligations
Implement and maintain AML/CFT policies, procedures, and controls aligned with CBB requirements and any other relevant authority
Conduct annual compliance testing
Oversee customer due diligence (CDD/EDD) for clients, funds, investors, and related parties
Oversee ongoing monitoring, periodic KYC review, and trigger events
Oversee sanctions screening and PEP identification, including source of wealth/source of funds (SOW/SOF) requirements
Approve reliance on third parties and ensure adequate oversight controls
Monitor AML risks arising from outsourcing and delegated arrangements
Liaise with regulators, auditors, and relevant stakeholders
Ensure timely closure of audit and regulatory findings
Deliver AML/CFT training and awareness
Assist the Data Protection Officer with related reporting and obligations
Sign-off on high risk/PEPs
Prepare responses to routine, ad-hoc, and urgent information requests from the regulator or relevant stakeholders in a timely and accurate manner
Keep up-to-date with all relevant laws and regulations and communicate regulatory changes and developments to senior management and staff
Qualifications & experience
Bachelor's degree in relevant field
Professional certification (CAMS/ICA) preferred
AML/CFT experience in financial services
Competencies
Strong regulatory judgment and independence
Attention to detail
Ability to work under pressure
Stakeholder management
Strong communication skills
Ability to ensure compliance while supporting business needs
Solutions-driven critical thinking, with the ability to adapt to change
Strong English/Arabic language skills
What you will get in return
A high level of visibility within a large organisation on an upwards trajectory
Be part of a dynamic and fast-paced team that makes a genuine impact on the business
Exposure to all aspects of the business