Compliance Officer & MLRO (Abu Dhabi)

About the role

A leading global hedge fund is seeking a senior Compliance Officer who will also serve as the Money Laundering Reporting Officer (MLRO) for its Abu Dhabi office. You will own the local compliance framework, act as the primary liaison with regulators, and oversee AML/CFT and sanctions controls.

Key responsibilities

• Develop and maintain the compliance framework in line with FSRA and ADGM requirements.
• Manage all regulator interactions, including filings, notifications, inspections and correspondence.
• Oversee AML/CFT and sanctions programmes, conduct client due‑diligence, enhanced checks and ongoing monitoring.
• Handle internal suspicious activity escalations and submit external reports when required.
• Provide practical regulatory guidance to senior management and investment teams.
• Track regulatory changes and translate them into updated controls and processes.
• Maintain regulatory records and support internal and external audits.

Required profile

• Solid knowledge of the ADGM regulatory framework and UAE AML/CFT and sanctions rules.
• Proven experience as a Compliance Officer or MLRO, preferably within a hedge fund or asset manager with regional operations.
• Demonstrated ability to work autonomously while collaborating with a global compliance team.
• Excellent communication skills and the judgement to balance regulatory rigour with commercial pragmatism.
• Willingness to be based in Abu Dhabi or relocate, meeting residency and suitability requirements.

Required skills

• ADGM regulatory framework
• FSRA compliance
• AML/CFT controls
• Sanctions screening
• Regulatory reporting
• MLRO responsibilities