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