Head of Compliance & MLRO

• Own and shape a DFSA-regulated platform • Direct exposure to CEO and Board stakeholders About Our Client Our client is a DFSA-regulated financial services firm based in the DIFC and backed by an established group. Job Description • Serve as the firm's Head of Compliance and MLRO. • Act as the primary compliance contact for the DFSA and other relevant 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. • Manage suitability reviews, client classification and risk assessment procedures. • Enhance and maintain compliance manuals, policies, procedures and governance documentation. • 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. • Provide practical compliance advice to business and client-facing teams. • Monitor regulatory developments and assess their impact on the firm. • Work closely with leadership to build scalable controls and governance structures that support business growth. What's on Offer • Opportunity to lead the compliance function of a growing DIFC-based firm. • Direct access to the CEO, executive leadership team and Board. Contact Asma Siddiqui Quote job ref JN-PHONE_NUMBER Job summary Sector Banking & Financial Services Subsector Compliance & Legal Industry Financial Services Where Dubai Contract type Permanent Consultant name Asma Siddiqui Job reference JN-PHONE_NUMBER • 5-10+ years of experience as Compliance Officer & MLRO for DFSA/FSRA regulated firms (preferably cat 4). • 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. • Experience engaging with regulators and managing regulatory submissions. • Background within wealth management, private banking, asset management, brokerage or related sectors is preferred. • Familiarity with DFSA inspections, thematic reviews or remediation programmes is advantageous. • Exposure to UAE regulatory frameworks including SCA and UAE Central Bank regulations would be beneficial. • Strong communication and stakeholder management skills. • Ability to operate independently in a hands-on environment. • Comfortable interacting with senior executives, Board members and regulators. • Commercially minded with a pragmatic approach to risk and compliance. • Degree qualified with relevant compliance, AML or governance certifications preferred.