MLRO & Deputy Head of Compliance – Dubai (DIFC)

About the role

The Market Securities (Dubai) Limited group is looking for a senior compliance professional to serve as its Money Laundering Reporting Officer (MLRO) and Deputy Head of Compliance within the DIFC. The role carries full responsibility for the firm’s AML, CTF, sanctions and financial crime framework and requires DFSA approval as a licensed individual.

Key responsibilities

• Act as the designated MLRO and primary liaison with the DFSA, FIU and other authorities on AML, sanctions and financial crime matters.
• Develop, maintain and update AML, CTF, sanctions and financial crime policies, procedures, systems and controls to meet DFSA and UAE requirements.
• Conduct and oversee financial crime risk assessments at firm, client and business‑line levels, including AML Business Risk Assessment.
• Manage client risk assessment processes – CDD, EDD, PEP identification, adverse media and sanctions screening, ongoing monitoring and escalation.
• Review and submit internal and external suspicious activity reports via goAML.
• Prepare the MLRO Annual Report, DFSA Annual AML Return and periodic AML management information for senior leadership.
• Monitor regulatory developments in AML, CTF, proliferation financing and sanctions and implement necessary changes.
• Design and deliver AML and financial crime training and keep training records.
• Lead the firm’s response to regulatory inspections, thematic reviews and audits.
• Deputise for the Head of Compliance on day‑to‑day approvals, committee representation and DFSA contacts.
• Provide independent second‑review and sign‑off on compliance policies and regulatory submissions.

Required profile

• Legal background strongly preferred, with ability to interpret legislation and regulatory requirements.
• Senior compliance experience, preferably within the DFSA‑regulated environment.
• Proven ability to advise senior management on complex regulatory issues.

Required skills

• goAML
• CTF
• Financial crime
• Sanctions
• CAMS certification
• DFSA
• AML