Financial Controller – AML & Reporting

About the role

You will own the financial close, statutory reporting and cash controls for a fast‑growing payments and trade‑finance business in the UAE. The role also leads the end‑to‑end AML/CTF framework, ensuring the company remains compliant and audit‑ready as new payment products scale.

Key responsibilities

• Run the monthly close and produce accurate management accounts under IFRS.
• Manage cash, bank reconciliations, working capital and treasury routines.
• Lead statutory reporting for VAT, Corporate Tax, ESR, UBO and other UAE regulatory filings.
• Coordinate internal and external audits, prepare schedules and close audit findings.
• Build and maintain internal controls, finance SOPs and risk registers.
• Design and operate AML/CTF framework – policies, KYC/EDD, sanctions screening, transaction monitoring, STR/SAR via goAML, training and record keeping.
• Partner with operations and product teams on new payment flows to ensure accounting, tax and AML alignment.
• Produce management information packs covering P&L, balance sheet, cash flow, variances and KPIs.

Required profile

• 5‑8 years of accounting/controlling experience in financial services or payments within the UAE.
• Strong knowledge of IFRS, monthly close processes and audit procedures.
• Hands‑on experience with UAE VAT, Corporate Tax, ESR, UBO and related regulatory timelines.
• Exposure to AML/CTF in a regulated environment; CAMS or similar certification is a plus.
• Degree in Accounting/Finance; CPA, ACCA or CMA is advantageous.

Required skills

• IFRS reporting
• UAE VAT, Corporate Tax, ESR, UBO compliance
• AML/CTF policies, KYC/EDD, sanctions screening, transaction monitoring, goAML
• Advanced Excel
• ERP systems and bank portals
• Power BI (plus)