Location: Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC)
Employment Type: Full-Time
Seniority: Mid–Senior Level
About the Opportunity
A DFSA-regulated asset and investment management firm in the DIFC is seeking an experienced Compliance Officer & Money Laundering Reporting Officer (CO/MLRO) to lead its compliance and AML/CFT framework.
The successful candidate must have strong experience in asset management, investment management, private equity, or related financial services, with a solid understanding of DFSA regulations and DIFC regulatory expectations.
Key Responsibilities
Regulatory Compliance (DFSA Focus)
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Maintain and oversee the compliance framework in accordance with DFSA Rulebooks, including GEN, AML, COB, PIB, and CIR as relevant.
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Ensure the firm’s policies, procedures, and governance documents meet DFSA standards.
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Prepare, review, and submit periodic regulatory returns, notifications, and filings to the DFSA.
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Track regulatory changes and implement required updates across the business.
MLRO Responsibilities
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Act as the firm’s appointed MLRO, responsible for all AML/CFT obligations under DFSA and UAE Federal requirements.
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Oversee KYC/CDD, onboarding risk assessments, and ongoing monitoring of clients and counterparties.
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Conduct investigations and file STR/SAR reports to the UAE FIU as required.
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Deliver AML/CFT and financial crime training across the firm.
Monitoring, Assurance & Governance
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Develop and execute the firm’s Compliance Monitoring Plan (CMP).
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Lead periodic internal compliance reviews and risk assessments.
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Conduct due diligence on investors, service providers, and counterparties.
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Provide compliance and AML guidance to senior management and committees.
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Liaise with DFSA supervisors, internal auditors, and external consultants.
Requirements
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4–8 years of compliance experience within asset management, investment management, private equity, or similar regulated environments.
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Strong knowledge of DFSA rulebooks, DIFC regulatory processes, and AML/CFT obligations.
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Prior experience as CO/MLRO or Deputy CO/MLRO in a DFSA-regulated firm is highly desirable.
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Ability to design, implement, and maintain compliance frameworks and monitoring plans.
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Strong analytical, communication, and stakeholder management skills.
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Professional certifications such as CAMS, ICA, CFA, or similar are a plus.
What We’re Looking For
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A proactive and commercially aware compliance professional.
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Someone confident working in a boutique or mid-sized investment environment.
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An individual capable of balancing regulatory expectations with business practicality.