Head of Compliance/MLRO

Job Title: Head of Compliance / MLRO

Location: DIFC, Dubai, UAE

Company Overview: US-headquartered multi-asset class corporate institutional brokerage firm operating in the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC).

Position Overview: Head of Compliance / Money Laundering Reporting Officer (MLRO) to lead the compliance function. This role will be critical in ensuring that operations adhere to all applicable laws, regulations, and internal policies, safeguarding the firms reputation and fostering a culture of compliance across all levels.

Key Responsibilities:

• Compliance Leadership: Develop, implement, and maintain a robust compliance framework tailored to multi-asset class brokerage operations in accordance with UAE and US regulations.
• Regulatory Oversight: Monitor changes in relevant laws and regulations, advising senior management on potential impacts and necessary adjustments to policies and procedures.
• Risk Management: Identify compliance risks and design appropriate mitigation strategies. Conduct regular compliance risk assessments and audits.
• MLRO Duties: Act as the designated Money Laundering Reporting Officer, ensuring effective anti-money laundering (AML) policies and procedures are in place, and reporting suspicious activities to relevant authorities.
• Training and Awareness: Develop and deliver compliance training programs to ensure all employees understand compliance obligations and the importance of ethical conduct.
• Stakeholder Engagement: Collaborate with internal teams, including legal, operations, and senior management, to promote a culture of compliance and ensure alignment with business objectives.
• Reporting: Prepare and present regular compliance reports to senior management and the board, detailing compliance status, emerging risks, and key issues.
• External Liaison: Serve as the primary point of contact with regulatory bodies and external auditors regarding compliance matters.

Qualifications:

• Bachelors degree in Finance, Law, Business Administration, or a related field; advanced degree or professional certification (e.g., CAMS, CCO) preferred.
• Held the authorised compliance officer position previously and has proven experience (7+ years) in compliance, risk management, or legal roles within a financial services institution, preferably in a brokerage environment.
• Strong knowledge of US and UAE regulatory frameworks, including DFSA regulations, AML/CFT laws, and securities regulations.
• Exceptional analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to influence and collaborate with stakeholders at all levels.
• Strong leadership abilities with a track record of building and leading effective compliance teams.