Job Description

Our client is a dynamic FinTech startup who are looking for a Head of Compliance.

As the Head of Compliance, you will be instrumental in establishing and embedding a robust compliance culture and infrastructure ensuring adherence to regulatory best practice. You will serve as a trusted advisor to the leadership team, providing expert guidance on navigating the complexities of the regulatory environment and fostering a culture of ethical conduct and adherence.

Key Responsibilities will include:

• Designing, developing, and implementing end-to-end compliance policies, procedures, and monitoring programmes tailored to the fintech sector and UAE regulations.
• Maintaining expert-level knowledge of relevant UAE financial regulations, including but not limited to those issued by the DFSA, ADGM, and the Central Bank of the UAE.
• Conducting thorough compliance risk assessments to proactively identify, evaluate, and mitigate potential areas of regulatory exposure.
• Creating and maintaining clear, concise, and practical compliance policies and procedures that are easily understood and effectively implemented across all business functions.
• Developing and delivering engaging and informative compliance training programmes for all employees to cultivate a strong culture of compliance awareness and accountability.
• Establishing and overseeing effective monitoring and reporting systems to track adherence to internal policies and external regulatory requirements.
• Acting as the primary point of contact with regulatory authorities, external auditors, and legal counsel on compliance-related matters.
• Developing and maintaining robust Anti-Money Laundering (AML) and Know Your Customer (KYC) processes and controls.
• Ensuring compliance with all relevant data protection laws and regulations.
• Providing strategic compliance advice and guidance to the executive team on new product development, market entry strategies, and other key business initiatives.
• With future growth, building and leading a high-performing compliance team.

Skills:

• A minimum of 5 years of progressive experience in a senior compliance role within the financial services or fintech industry.
• A comprehensive and up-to-date understanding of UAE financial regulations (e.g., DFSA, ADGM, Central Bank).
• Prior experience working within the UAE market is preferred.
• A strong grasp of AML/KYC principles, sanctions regimes, and best practices.
• Exceptional analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities with meticulous attention to detail.
• Outstanding communication, interpersonal, and presentation skills, with the ability to influence and build strong working relationships at all levels.
• The ability to work independently, take initiative, and thrive in a fast-paced and evolving startup environment.
• A relevant Bachelor's degree in Law, Finance, Business Administration, or a related field. Relevant compliance certifications (e.g., ICA Diploma) are considered a significant asset.

Thank you for your application.  Only suitable candidates will be contacted.

Please note that by applying to this role, your profile will be searchable in our database.  Our Recruiters will contact you should another suitable role become available.