Head of Compliance and MLRO

About the company

Our client is a DFSA-regulated financial services firm based in the DIFC and backed by an established group.

Your tasks

Serve as the firm's Head of Compliance and MLRO. Act as the primary compliance contact for the DFSA and other relevant regulatory bodies. Maintain and enhance the firm's compliance framework in line with DFSA requirements. Oversee AML, CTF, sanctions and financial crime controls. Review and approve client onboarding, KYC and due diligence processes. Manage suitability reviews, client classification and risk assessment procedures. Enhance and maintain compliance manuals, policies, procedures and governance documentation. Design and implement compliance monitoring and testing programmes. Prepare compliance reports and risk assessments for senior management and Board committees. Deliver regulatory and compliance training across the business. Support regulatory inspections, thematic reviews and remediation projects. Provide practical compliance advice to business and client-facing teams. Monitor regulatory developments and assess their impact on the firm. Work closely with leadership to build scalable controls and governance structures that support business growth.

Requirements

• 5-10+ years of experience as Compliance Officer and MLRO for DFSA/FSRA regulated firms (preferably category 4).
• Strong understanding of AML, KYC, onboarding, suitability and compliance monitoring requirements.
• Experience drafting and maintaining compliance manuals, policies and procedures.
• Knowledge of Professional and Retail Client classifications.
• Experience engaging with regulators and managing regulatory submissions.
• Background within wealth management, private banking, asset management, brokerage or related sectors is preferred.
• Familiarity with DFSA inspections, thematic reviews or remediation programmes is advantageous.
• Exposure to UAE regulatory frameworks including SCA and UAE Central Bank regulations would be beneficial.
• Strong communication and stakeholder management skills.
• Ability to operate independently in a hands-on environment.
• Comfortable interacting with senior executives, Board members and regulators.
• Commercially minded with a pragmatic approach to risk and compliance.
• Degree qualified with relevant compliance, AML or governance certifications preferred.

What we offer

Opportunity to lead the compliance function of a growing DIFC-based firm. Direct access to the CEO, executive leadership team and Board.