Description:
We seek a Head of Compliance for our licensed payment (e-money wallet) entity in the UAE. The ideal candidate will be a seasoned professional with a proven track record of leadership and compliance expertise. This position will hold the critical responsibility of ensuring strict adherence to all applicable laws, regulations, and internal policies throughout our organization. As the Head of Compliance, you will play a pivotal role in maintaining the integrity of our business while proactively mitigating potential regulatory risks. Your ability to manage and motivate a team of compliance professionals, as well as effectively engage with regulatory authorities, will be essential to your success.
Key Responsibilities
- Implement, enhance, and maintain comprehensive compliance policies and procedures aligned with regulatory requirements set forth by the CBUAE, demonstrating a deep understanding of the applicable laws and regulations.
- Lead and manage a team of compliance professionals, fostering a collaborative and high-performing environment, to effectively implement and monitor compliance initiatives across the organization.
- Conduct regular compliance assessments and audits, proactively identifying potential areas of non-compliance and recommending corrective actions to mitigate risks and ensure adherence to regulatory standards.
- Provide strategic guidance and support to various departments within the organization on compliance-related matters, including regulatory changes and updates, ensuring that all business activities are conducted in a compliant manner.
- Design and roll out efficient and effective compliance processes, leveraging technology and innovative solutions to streamline compliance workflows and enhance operational efficiency.
- Collaborate with internal stakeholders, including senior management, to integrate compliance considerations into all aspects of business operations, including product development, marketing, and customer service.
- Serve as the primary point of contact for regulatory inquiries and examinations, liaising with regulators and providing timely and accurate responses to ensure compliance with regulatory requirements.
- Stay abreast of developments in regulatory requirements and industry best practices, conducting research and analysis to identify emerging trends and potential risks, and providing regular updates to senior management and relevant staff members.
Skills, Knowledge and Expertise
- Bachelor's degree in Law, Finance, Business Administration, or a related field.
- Advanced degrees and/or professional certifications in compliance (e.g., CAMS, CFE, CRCM, ICA).
- Minimum of 7 years of experience in senior compliance roles within the financial services industry. Prior work experience with e-money institutions and/or payment service providers is particularly desirable.
- Experience in identifying, assessing, and mitigating compliance risks and developing and implementing effective risk management strategies.
- Familiarity with compliance-related software and technology solutions.
- Experience with data analytics and reporting tools for compliance purposes.
- In-depth knowledge of regulatory requirements applicable to FinTech companies and financial institutions in the United Arab Emirates, particularly those outlined by the CBUAE.
- Experience in mentoring and developing compliance talent.
- Strong understanding of anti-money laundering (AML), combating the financing of terrorism (CFT), sanctions and other financial crime compliance requirements.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to effectively collaborate with cross-functional teams.
- Proven track record of implementing and managing compliance programs, including policies, procedures, and training initiatives.
- Analytical mindset with strong problem-solving abilities and attention to detail.
- Ability to align compliance initiatives with the company's overall strategic goals and proactive approach to anticipating and addressing emerging compliance challenges.
- Strong alignment with the company's values and culture.