Head of Financial Crime & MLRO

Head of Financial Crime & MLRO | Dubai, UAEAbout the RoleWe are partnering with a leading international banking group with a strong presence across the Middle East to recruit a Head of Financial Crime & MLRO.This is a senior leadership role responsible for designing, implementing, and overseeing the bank’s financial crime and AML/CTF frameworks across the UAE and Qatar, while supporting regional initiatives and ensuring regulatory compliance.Key ResponsibilitiesAct as the MLRO (must be fully-registered) for UAE and Qatar, overseeing regulatory reporting and escalation of suspicious activityLead and maintain robust financial crime programs, covering AML/CTF, sanctions, fraud prevention, and anti-bribery & corruption.Conduct enterprise-wide risk assessments, monitoring, and reporting to senior management and regulatory authorities.Develop, maintain, and enhance policies, procedures, and governance frameworks aligned with local and international regulations.Provide strategic advice to senior leadership on regulatory compliance, financial crime risk, and emerging threats.Oversee the implementation and testing of financial crime systems, including transaction monitoring and KYC/CDD processes.Manage, mentor, and develop a high-performing team of compliance and financial crime professionals.Ensure proactive engagement with regulators and timely submission of regulatory filings, including STR/SAR reporting.Qualifications & ExperienceProven experience as a currently and fully registered MLRO in a banking or financial institutionStrong knowledge of AML/CTF, sanctions, fraud, and anti-bribery & corruption frameworks.Strong knowledge of regulatory requirements in the UAE, Qatar, and international standards (e.g., DFSA, UAE Central Bank, FATF).Background in corporate banking, trade finance, or regional compliance leadership is a must.Demonstrated leadership skills with experience managing teams and cross-functional stakeholders.Relevant certifications such as CAMS, ICA, or equivalent are highly desirable.Strong analytical, communication, and problem-solving skills with attention to detail.What We OfferSenior leadership exposure in a regional role across the Middle East.Opportunity to shape and influence financial crime and compliance frameworks.Work in a dynamic environment with cross-border responsibilities.*We kindly request that only candidates who meet all the required qualifications apply. This helps us ensure a faster and more focused recruitment process.*#J-18808-Ljbffr