Unit Head – Shari’a Assessment & Testing

About the role

The Unit Head – Shari’a Assessment & Testing will lead the Shari’a Assessment and Testing (SAT) unit within ADIB. Reporting to the Head of Shari’a Compliance, the role ensures that all bank activities comply with the Higher Shari’a Authority, internal Shari’a committees, the Central Bank of the UAE and AAOIFI standards.

Key responsibilities

• Assist the Head of Shari’a Compliance in supervising the SAT unit and monitoring compliance with all relevant Shari’a resolutions and regulations.
• Develop and implement the annual Shari’a Assessment and Testing plan, aligning it with strategic objectives and risk‑based methodology.
• Lead Shari’a monitoring and assurance reviews across the bank, using the Governance, Risk and Control (GRC) platform.
• Assess Shari’a non‑compliance risks, coordinate with business units and operational risk functions, and recommend mitigating controls.
• Prepare detailed reports for internal committees, the Internal Shari’a Supervisory Committee and other stakeholders, and communicate findings clearly.
• Support the timely execution of action plans arising from compliance reviews.

Required profile

• Extensive experience in Shari’a compliance, risk management or internal audit within Islamic banking.
• Proven leadership skills with the ability to manage a specialised compliance unit.
• Strong understanding of HSA, ISSC, CBUAE and AAOIFI standards.
• Excellent analytical and communication abilities to present findings to senior management.

Required skills

• Familiarity with Governance, Risk and Control (GRC) platforms.