Description:
The Head of Custody will lead and oversee all aspects of the virtual asset custody function for a VARA‑licensed exchange in Dubai. The Head of Custody is responsible for the safekeeping of client assets, design and operation of wallet and key‑management frameworks, and ensuring full compliance with VARA Custody‑related Rulebooks and other applicable UAE regulations.
- Define and maintain the overall virtual asset custody model, policies and procedures in line with VARA requirements.
- Design and oversee secure wallet and key‑management frameworks (hot/warm/cold, multi‑sig/MPC, withdrawals and approvals).
- Ensure custody operations comply with all relevant VARA Rulebooks and UAE laws, working closely with Compliance, MLRO and Legal.
- Identify, assess and manage custody‑related risks, and maintain strong internal controls and reconciliations for client assets.
- Oversee information security and operational resilience for custody infrastructure, including incident response and recovery plans.
- Manage day‑to‑day custody operations (deposits, withdrawals, transfers, sweeping and treasury movements) in line with agreed SLAs.
- Coordinate with Trading, Treasury, Risk, Finance and Customer Support to ensure accurate, timely and secure asset flows.
- Manage relationships with external custodians and wallet/key‑management vendors, including due diligence and ongoing oversight.
- Lead audits, assurance activities and internal reporting on custody KPIs, incidents, reconciliations and control effectiveness.
- Build and lead the custody team, promoting a strong control culture and providing training on custody processes and risks.
What you'll need
- University degree in Law, Finance, Risk, Computer Science, or related disciplines.
- Minimum 5 years of experience in crypto custody, risk management, cybersecurity, or financial safeguarding roles.
- Strong understanding of blockchain infrastructure, wallet technology, and asset segregation principles.
- Familiarity with VARA requirements for safeguarding and asset protection.
- Strong communication skills and ability to collaborate across departments.
- Fluency in English; Arabic is a plus