Compliance Manager

Overview

We are looking to recruit an experienced Compliance Manager, responsible for ensuring compliance with all regulatory requirements specific to real estate brokerage services in the region. This includes oversight of Anti-Money Laundering (AML)/Combating the Financing of Terrorism (CFT) obligations, client onboarding, brokerage licensing, regulatory compliance matters, and operational adherence to real estate regulations. The role ensures the business meets all standards set by regulatory authorities and contributes to a robust risk and compliance culture within brokerage operations.

The Compliance Manager will be appointed as Money Laundering Reporting Officer (MLRO) for the company and registered with the Ministry.

Responsibilities

• Manage and oversee all compliance programs.
• Oversee compliance for brokerage documentation and agent licensing.
• Serve as the primary AML/CFT focal point for brokerage activities.
• Implement and manage Customer Due Diligence (CDD), Enhanced Due Diligence (EDD), onboarding processes, risk assessments, sanctions checks, and verification processes according to established procedures.
• Provide CDD and AML support to stakeholders at all levels and external clients.
• Assist with ongoing monitoring of clients.
• Coordinate internal Suspicious Activity Reports (SARs) and external Suspicious Transaction Reports (STRs) using AML systems and portals.
• Conduct continuous training and assessments for brokerage team members to ensure compliance awareness.
• Maintain the AML risk register, training records, and reporting obligations.
• Perform general administrative tasks, including file creation and maintenance of ongoing administrative projects.
• Review brokerage agreements and transactions in the context of CDD and AML compliance.
• Support the Head of Operations in ensuring compliant workflows across brokerage teams.
• Conduct periodic file audits and operational compliance checks.
• Provide guidance on advisory and brokerage regulations, risk indicators, and compliant client engagement.
• Investigate and address compliance violations.
• Ensure adherence to complaint handling procedures; maintain records of complaints and actions taken.
• Document findings, implement remediation plans, and report outcomes to the Head of Operations.
• Maintain RERA/DLD compliance records and renewal schedules.
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of relevant CDD and AML regulations.
• Monitor regulatory changes, relevant laws, and regulations across the business; prepare and present reports for management.
• Contribute to the continuous improvement of the CDD function.
• Other tasks as required.

Skills and Qualifications required

• Bachelor’s degree in Law or a related discipline, or a minimum of 5 years’ experience in a reputable company providing dedicated CDD and AML support for real estate brokerage activities.
• Knowledge of UAE Federal Law No. 20 of 2018 (AML Law), UAE Federal Law No. 7 of 2014 on Combating Terrorist Offences, UAE Cabinet Resolution No. 10 of 2019, and UAE Cabinet Resolution No. 74 of 2020 on sanctions lists.
• Strong knowledge of AML/CFT regulations, RERA/DLD rules, client onboarding processes and regulatory reporting.
• Experience as MLRO, responsible for producing reports reflecting risk assessments, suspicious activity, internal controls, and training.
• Experience and technical knowledge of onboarding, conducting AML to individuals, clients and various complex entities.
• Experience with brokerage transactions.
• Exceptional attention to detail.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal.
• Professional presentation with a clear and confident speaking voice.
• Ability to handle confidential and sensitive information with discretion.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment.
• Understanding of regional business culture and regulations.
• The ability to understand and make use of computers and information technology
• Certifications and Licenses: Certified Anti-Money Laundering Specialist (CAMS) Certificate required. ICA certificate in AML, Financial Crime or Compliance is advantageous. Local driving license required.
• Software : Microsoft Office programs to a proficient level. Experience with Adobe (full version). Familiarity with third-party CDD or client onboarding screening tools.
• Language skills: Fluency in English, written and verbal. Fluency in Arabic or other languages is advantageous.
• Travel: Flexible attitude towards travelling.