Head of KYC/AML in Dubai

We are looking for a Head of KYC/AML for a global law-firm based in Dubai (DIFC).

Location Dubai UAE

Salary 60000-65000 AED/month annual bonus benefits

Requirements:

• Comprehensive knowledge and understanding of regulatory compliance and risk matters arising in a law firm or professional services firm.
  
• Excellent knowledge of anti-money laundering ( AML ) combatting the financing of terrorism ( CFT ) proliferation financing ( PF ) know your client ( KYC ) and sanctions compliance regulations.
  
• Experienced in managing regulatory audits.
  
• Highly experienced in providing sanctions compliance advice and guidance to management.
  
• Unwavering adherence to high ethical standards and uncompromising integrity in all interactions.
  
• Ability to effectively collaborate with various departments to facilitate comprehensive adherence to AML regulations across the firm.
  
• Exhibits the ability to make well-informed decisions in high pressure situations.
  
• High level of accuracy in reviewing and reporting on matters relevant to the role.
  
• Proficient and experienced in preparing detailed and accurate reports on AML/CFT/KYC and sanctions activities and presenting them to management.
  
• Familiarity with AML software and tools used for monitoring and reporting suspicious activities.
  
• Proactively stay updated on regulations and regulatory changes as well as industry best practice with focus on AML and sanctions compliance risks.
  
• Native English speaker with excellent verbal and written communication skills.
  

Key Responsibilities:

• Implementing and overseeing the firm s AML policies procedures systems and controls including the operation of the firm s risk-based approach.
  
• Ensuring day-to-day compliance with the rules and other relevant AML legislation applicable in all jurisdictions where the company operates.
  
• Ensuring the effectiveness of sanctions controls and with a regular approach to testing the effectiveness.
  
• Ensuring the identification of key regulatory changes and notification to/education of relevant departments and areas to ensure ongoing compliance.
  
• Responsible for the preparation and submission of all regulatory annual returns.
  
• Responsible for the management of regulatory audits in all jurisdictions where the company operates.
  
• Acting as point of escalation for the team on high-risk clients/matters.
  
• Managing the day-today operations of the team including their training and development programmes.
  
• Making Suspicious Activity Reports in accordance with Federal AML legislation in all jurisdictions where the company operates.
  
• Responding promptly to any request for information made by competent authorities in all jurisdictions where the company operates.
  
• Receiving and acting upon any relevant findings recommendations guidance directives resolutions sanctions notices or other conclusions.
  
• Developing and delivering appropriate AML. CTF and sanctions compliance training including employee induction refresher training specialist and department focused training.
  
• Acting as the point of contact within the firm for competent authorities regarding money laundering issues.
  
• Reporting semi-annually to ExCo on various matters including the results of the AML CFT and sanctions review the firm s compliance with Federal AML legislation and the regulations and rules of the Regulator internal notifications of suspicious activity Suspicious Activity/Transaction Reports and other relevant matters related to AML/CFT/KYC and sanctions.
  
• Responsible for updating all Business Risk Assessments in all jurisdictions where the company operates.
  
• Responsible for the enhancement of AML systems and controls.
  
• Reviewing and advising on areas of regulatory change and applicable best practice in the region and update the relevant policies and procedures accordingly.
  
• Supporting and coordinating senior management focus on managing the firm s AML and CFT risks in individual business areas.
  
• Handling other ad-hoc compliance-related projects that may be assigned from time to time.
  
• Promoting a compliance culture across the firm consistent with the firm s strategic objectives vision values and Risk Appetite.