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.