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Head of Compliance & MLRO

Michael PageDubaiUnited Arab EmiratesPosted 15 Oct 2026

Quick Overview

Seniority
Leader
Employment type
Full Time
Work mode
Hybrid
Location
Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Posted
4 days ago
ComplianceStakeholder Management

Job Description

  • 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.

The Successful Applicant
  • 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.

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-102026-7126432

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