MLRO - ADGM

The Money Laundering Reporting Officer (MLRO) will be responsible for ensuring compliance with applicable AML/CFT and virtual asset regulatory requirements in the UAE, including relevant frameworks issued by the FSRA in the ADGM, with potential scope for broader regional responsibilities over time.

This role will be working on further enhancing and maintaining a robust AML/CFT compliance framework aligned with UAE AML laws, applicable regulatory guidance, and international standards, including FATF expectations for virtual asset businesses.

What You'll Do:

• Implementing, maintaining, and enhancing the AML/CFT compliance framework in line with UAE AML laws and applicable regulatory guidance.
• Ensuring ongoing compliance with FATF standards and virtual asset-specific regulatory expectations.
• Coordinating with free zone and federal regulators in relation to inspections, audits, regulatory reviews, and information requests.
• Supporting local oversight of global compliance processes and procedures, including transaction monitoring (fiat and on-chain) and market surveillance.
• Ensure escalations in relation to potentially suspicious activity are handled in accordance with the UAE AML law and regulatory requirements, including timely and quality reporting of suspicious activity.
• Support the development, calibration, and enhancement of automated monitoring systems and controls.
• Ensure necessary compliance dashboards, matrices and MI are in place and adequately utilized to secure effective MLRO oversight of the organization's compliance program   
• Provide meaningful and timely updates and/or escalations to Senior Management and the Board  
• Assist in drafting, reviewing, and updating AML/CFT policies, procedures, controls, and risk assessments.
• Deliver AML/CFT training and awareness sessions to staff and provide ongoing guidance on regulatory developments and compliance obligations.
• Support broader compliance initiatives and contribute to the strengthening of the firm's financial crime compliance framework.

What We're Looking For:

• Minimum 15 years of experience in compliance, AML/CFT, or regulatory affairs, preferably within the crypto industry, or financial services in related industries across the MEASA region.
• Bachelor's degree in Finance, Law, Business Administration, or a related field.
• High ethical standards, discretion, and the ability to handle sensitive and confidential information with integrity.
• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to explain complex compliance matters clearly to both internal and external stakeholders.
• Proficiency in compliance tools, case management systems, and blockchain analytics / forensic platforms such as Chainalysis or Elliptic is an advantage.
• Strong familiarity with regional regulatory frameworks and regulators, including FSRA, CBUAE, SCA, and other relevant authorities.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and risk assessment capabilities, with a proactive approach to identifying and mitigating compliance risks.
• Ability to work effectively under pressure, manage competing priorities, and meet tight deadlines.
• Strong attention to detail with a highly analytical and investigative mindset.
• An inquisitive mindset and desire to bring their best and add real value.