Head of Compliance and MLRO

Head of Compliance & MLRODesignated Compliance Officer (CO) & Money Laundering Reporting OfficerDubai, UAE | Full-time | On-siteMeraki Talent are working with a leading multi-asset broker that is expanding its regulated operations in the UAE and is seeking an experienced Head of Compliance & MLRO to take ownership of its compliance and AML framework. This is a senior, hands-on position with direct exposure to the Board and regulatory authorities. The successful candidate will play a key role in supporting the firm's regulatory approval process, establishing robust compliance infrastructure and overseeing the day-to-day compliance function as the business continues to grow.The RoleAs Head of Compliance & MLRO, you will have responsibility for the firm's regulatory compliance, AML/CFT framework, governance and regulatory reporting.Initially operating as a hands-on individual contributor, you will be expected to manage the core compliance function directly, supported by external technology and RegTech solutions. As the business develops, there will be scope to build and lead a wider compliance team.You will act as a key point of contact with the relevant UAE regulatory authorities and will work closely with senior management and the Board to ensure the business maintains a robust and scalable regulatory framework.Key ResponsibilitiesRegulatory & ComplianceLead the firm's regulatory approval and ongoing compliance requirements within the UAE.Act as the designated Compliance Officer and MLRO, subject to regulatory approval.Manage relationships with relevant regulatory and supervisory authorities.Maintain and continually enhance the firm's compliance framework, policies and procedures.Monitor regulatory developments and ensure the business remains aligned with applicable requirements.Provide senior management and the Board with clear guidance on regulatory and compliance matters.AML / KYC / Financial CrimeOversee day-to-day KYC and KYB processes, including Enhanced Due Diligence for higher-risk clients.Manage PEP, sanctions and adverse media screening processes.Oversee transaction monitoring and financial crime controls.Investigate suspicious activity and manage regulatory reporting requirements.Maintain and enhance the firm's AML/CFT framework and business risk assessments.Ensure appropriate controls are in place across client onboarding, ongoing monitoring and account management.Trading & Market ConductProvide compliance oversight across a broad range of leveraged trading products, including FX, CFDs, commodities, indices, equities and digital assets.Monitor trading activity for potential market abuse and other conduct risks.Review and approve financial promotions, digital marketing, client communications and third-party/affiliate materials.Provide compliance input into new products, services and commercial initiatives.Ensure appropriate client classification, suitability and risk disclosure frameworks are maintained.Governance, Audit & ReportingProvide regular compliance and AML reporting directly to the Board.Maintain regulatory registers, risk assessments and compliance documentation.Coordinate regulatory reviews, audits and inspections.Track remediation actions and ensure issues are resolved within agreed timescales.Develop and deliver compliance, AML, sanctions and market conduct training.Work closely with external advisers and third-party compliance technology providers where required.About YouWe are looking for an established compliance professional with strong experience within FX, CFD, online trading, brokerage, investment dealing or electronic trading environments.You will ideally have:5–10 years' relevant compliance and AML/CFT experience.Previous experience as a Head of Compliance, MLRO, Compliance Officer or Deputy Head of Compliance within a regulated financial services environment.Strong understanding of the regulatory requirements applicable to leveraged trading and multi-asset brokerage businesses.Practical knowledge of CFDs, FX, margin, leverage, liquidity and digital asset products.Experience dealing directly with regulators and supporting regulatory approval processes.Strong understanding of AML, KYC, sanctions, transaction monitoring and financial crime controls.The ability to operate independently and take ownership of a compliance function.Experience working with modern RegTech and compliance technology platforms.Excellent written and spoken English.Experience across UAE/GCC regulatory environments will be highly advantageous, as will experience with other recognised international regulators. Relevant professional qualifications such as ACAMS/CAMS, ICA, CISI or equivalent would be desirable.What the Opportunity OffersThis is an opportunity to join a growing multi-asset brokerage at an important stage of its regulatory and commercial development.The successful individual will have:Direct exposure to the Board and senior leadership.Significant ownership of the firm's compliance and AML framework.The opportunity to shape the compliance function from the ground up.Exposure to a broad range of trading products and new financial services initiatives.Scope to build and lead a compliance team as the business scales.A senior position within a growing UAE-based financial services organisation.Location: Dubai, UAEWorking Pattern: Full-time, on-siteStart: Immediate / short notice preferred