Regulatory Licensing & Compliance Manager – VARA / DIFC / ADGM

Company DescriptionNH Management is a specialist corporate services, governance, regulatory licensing, compliance, and virtual asset advisory firm. We are expanding our regulatory division and seeking a senior Compliance & Regulatory Licensing Officer / MLRO with hands-on experience managing licence applications and engaging directly with UAE regulators.Role DescriptionWe are looking for a Compliance & Regulatory Licensing Officer / MLRO to join our team in a full-time, on-site capacity in Dubai. In this role, you will be responsible for upholding regulatory standards, managing end-to-end licensing processes, and serving as the organisation's Money Laundering Reporting Officer (MLRO).This is a high-impact position that places you at the forefront of complex regulatory initiatives. You will act as MLRO for clients, design and implement robust compliance frameworks, and oversee a broad portfolio that spans both conventional financial services and the virtual assets space.Your core responsibilities will include conducting in-depth regulatory research, formulating compliance policies and procedures, leading licensing applications, fostering professional relationships with regulatory authorities, and handling client and stakeholder inquiries on matters of compliance and licensing.What you'll doLead regulatory licence applications end-to-end with VARA, ADGM, DFSA, SCA, and the UAE Central BankPrepare and manage Regulatory Business Plans, Compliance Manuals, AML/CFT frameworks, and Governance PoliciesAct as MLRO and Compliance Officer for clients, including SAR/STR drafting and high-risk file reviewsLiaise directly with regulators during licensing, supervision, and inspection processesDraft and maintain risk assessments, compliance monitoring programmes, and governance frameworksAdvise clients on regulatory obligations and support remediation and enhancement projectsMonitor rulebook updates (VARA, DFSA GEN/AML/Conduct, FSRA) and ensure continued complianceProvide compliance training to clients and internal staffWhat we're looking forMinimum 2-5 years of UAE compliance experience with direct regulator interactionProven track record in managing full-cycle regulatory licence applicationsStrong AML/CFT knowledge and CDD/EDD experience, including high-risk onboardingExcellent drafting skills — compliance manuals, business plans, governance documentsVARA licensing experience is highly preferredADGM CSP / FSRA and DFSA licensing experience is a strong advantageICA, ACAMS, CISI, or equivalent qualification preferredBackground in consulting or advisory firms is a plusDegree in law, compliance, finance, or a related field