Head of Compliance and MLRO

About the role

Lead the compliance function of a DFSA‑regulated financial services firm based in the DIFC, reporting directly to the CEO and Board.

Key responsibilities

• Act as the primary compliance contact for the DFSA and other 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.
• 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.

Required profile

• 5‑10+ years of experience as a Compliance Officer & MLRO for DFSA/FSRA regulated firms.
• 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.
• Proven ability to engage with regulators and manage regulatory submissions.

Required skills

• Expertise in DFSA regulatory framework and UAE financial‑services regulations.
• Hands‑on experience with AML, CTF, sanctions screening and financial‑crime risk assessment.