Compliance Officer/MLRO

Compliance Officer & MLRO — VARA-Regulated VASPLocation: Dubai, UAESector: Digital Assets / Virtual AssetsRegulatory Framework: VARAEmployment Type: Full-timeAbout the CompanyWe are working with a leading VARA-regulated Virtual Asset Service Provider (VASP) in Dubai that is expanding its compliance function as the business continues to scale.The firm is looking to appoint an experienced Compliance Officer & Money Laundering Reporting Officer (MLRO) to take ownership of the compliance and AML framework and act as a key point of contact with the regulator.The RoleThis is a senior, hands-on compliance position with responsibility for ensuring the business operates in line with VARA requirements, applicable UAE legislation and international best practice.You will work closely with senior management and the wider business, providing regulatory advice while maintaining robust AML/CFT, compliance monitoring and regulatory reporting frameworks.Key ResponsibilitiesServe as the Compliance Officer and MLRO, with responsibility for the firm's compliance and AML/CFT framework.Maintain and enhance policies, procedures and controls in line with VARA regulations and applicable UAE requirements.Act as a key regulatory contact and support the business in its engagement with VARA.Oversee the firm's AML/CFT, sanctions and financial crime compliance framework.Conduct and oversee compliance risk assessments, including customer, product and jurisdictional risk.Develop and execute the annual compliance monitoring programme.Provide regulatory advice to senior management and business teams on new and existing products and activities.Oversee customer due diligence, enhanced due diligence, transaction monitoring and suspicious transaction reporting.Ensure appropriate identification, escalation and reporting of suspicious activity.Monitor regulatory developments and assess their impact on the business.Prepare compliance and regulatory reports for senior management and the Board.Support regulatory examinations, inspections and information requests.Deliver compliance and AML training across the organisation.Work closely with Risk, Legal, Operations and other control functions to maintain a strong compliance culture.RequirementsSignificant experience in compliance and digital assets.Strong knowledge of UAE AML/CFT requirements and VARA's regulatory framework.Previous experience working within a VARA-regulated VASP is highly desirable.Strong understanding of virtual asset products, blockchain technology and the associated financial crime risks.Proven experience operating as an MLRO or Deputy MLRO, ideally within a regulated financial services or digital asset environment.Experience dealing directly with regulators and responding to regulatory requests or examinations.Strong knowledge of AML/CFT, sanctions, KYC/CDD, transaction monitoring and financial crime risk management.Excellent communication skills with the ability to advise and challenge senior stakeholders.Relevant professional qualifications such as CAMS, ICA, CISI or equivalent are desirable.Strong analytical, organisational and stakeholder-management skills.