Chief Compliance Officer

Title: Chief Compliance Officer

Location: Dubai

About the Client

Our client is an innovative digital financial services organisation committed to expanding financial inclusion through accessible, technology-driven banking solutions.

As the business continues to grow, they are seeking a Chief Compliance Officer to lead the compliance function, strengthen governance frameworks, and ensure the organisation continues to operate in line with regulatory expectations and industry best practice.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the overall compliance framework, ensuring effective governance, regulatory compliance, and ethical business practices across the organisation.
• Provide strategic compliance advice to the Executive Leadership Team and Board, supporting business growth while maintaining an appropriate risk and control environment.
• Oversee the development, implementation, and continuous enhancement of compliance policies, procedures, and monitoring frameworks, including financial crime compliance and regulatory obligations.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with regulators, managing regulatory engagements, inspections, and the implementation of regulatory change initiatives.
• Identify emerging compliance and conduct risks, recommending practical mitigation strategies that support innovation while protecting the business.
• Lead, develop, and mentor the compliance function, promoting a strong culture of integrity, accountability, and regulatory awareness across the organisation.
• Partner with senior stakeholders across the business to provide clear regulatory guidance, challenge decision-making where appropriate, and support effective governance.

Key Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Law, Finance, Business, or a related discipline. Professional compliance qualifications would be highly advantageous.
• 13+ years' experience within Compliance, Financial Crime Compliance, Regulatory Compliance, or Risk Management, with significant experience in financial services or digital banking.
• Proven experience leading compliance and governance functions, with strong knowledge of AML, sanctions, anti-bribery and corruption, conduct risk, and broader regulatory requirements.
• Demonstrated experience engaging with financial regulators, managing regulatory inspections, and implementing regulatory change programmes.
• Strong leadership and stakeholder management skills, with the ability to influence executive management, Boards, and cross-functional teams.
• Commercially minded with the ability to balance regulatory expectations with business objectives in a fast-paced, technology-driven environment.
• Excellent communication, analytical, and problem-solving skills, with the ability to drive a strong culture of compliance and ethical conduct.