Head of Compliance & MLRO

We are seeking an exceptional senior compliance leader to serve as our Head of Compliance & MLRO in Bahrain . This is a pivotal leadership position that combines strategic oversight of our regulatory compliance framework with statutory responsibilities as the Money Laundering Reporting Officer. You will be the trusted advisor to the Board and senior management, ensuring our virtual asset trading and payment services operations maintain the highest standards of regulatory compliance while supporting sustainable business growth.

As MLRO, you will hold personal accountability for the effectiveness of our AML/CFT program and serve as the primary liaison with the Central Bank of Bahrain (CBB), the Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU), and law enforcement agencies. This role demands a seasoned professional with deep expertise in virtual assets, payment services, and financial crime prevention, combined with the gravitas to influence at the highest levels of the organization.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership & Governance

• Define, develop, and continuously refine the organization's comprehensive Compliance and Financial Crime Prevention framework
• Serve as the principal advisor to the Board and senior management on all compliance, AML/CFT, and regulatory matters
• Establish and chair the Compliance Committee, driving a strong culture of compliance across all business lines
• Develop and present regular compliance and AML risk reports to the Board Risk Committee
• Ensure the organization maintains a risk-based approach to compliance

Regulatory Engagement & Licensing

• Act as the sole designated point of contact with the Central Bank of Bahrain (CBB) for all compliance and AML/CFT matters
• Lead the management and maintenance of Virtual Asset Trading License and Payment Services License
• Oversee all regulatory reporting to CBB, ensuring accuracy and timeliness
• Manage regulatory examinations, inspections, and thematic reviews
• Proactively monitor regulatory developments across the GCC and globally

AML/CFT Program Ownership (MLRO Function)

• Fulfill the statutory duties of the MLRO as mandated under Bahrain's AML/CFT Law and CBB regulations
• Design, implement, and maintain a robust, risk-based AML/CFT framework
• Oversee all Suspicious Transaction Reports (STRs) and Suspicious Activity Reports (SARs)
• Conduct and regularly update the Enterprise-Wide AML/CFT Risk Assessment
• Ensure effective implementation of targeted financial sanctions, PEP screening, and adverse media monitoring

Compliance Operations & Controls

• Establish and maintain comprehensive compliance policies, procedures, and controls
• Implement a Compliance Monitoring Program (CMP) with regular testing
• Oversee compliance aspects of new product launches and business partnerships
• Coordinate with Internal Audit and external auditors on compliance examinations
• Maintain a robust compliance incident management framework

Team Leadership & Capability Building

• Build, lead, and develop a high-performing compliance team
• Foster a culture of continuous learning and excellence
• Oversee comprehensive AML/CFT training programs across the organization
• Ensure adequate resource allocation and technology infrastructure

Cross-Border Coordination & Global Integration

• Localize and implement the group's global AML/CFT and compliance policies
• Collaborate with regional and global compliance teams on cross-border initiatives
• Participate in global compliance working groups and committees
• Provide regular reporting to regional headquarters on Bahrain compliance posture

Qualifications & Requirements

Professional Experience

• Minimum 8 years of progressive experience in compliance, AML/CFT, or regulatory roles
• At least 5 years in a senior leadership capacity as MLRO, Head of Compliance, or equivalent
• Proven track record in virtual assets, cryptocurrency, fintech, or payment services
• Direct experience engaging with the Central Bank of Bahrain or other GCC regulators is highly preferred
• Demonstrated success in managing regulatory examinations and licensing applications

Regulatory & Technical Expertise

• Knowledge of Bahrain's regulatory framework, including CBB Rulebooks
• Comprehensive understanding of FATF Recommendations and international AML/CFT best practices
• Strong technical knowledge of blockchain technology, cryptocurrency transactions, and VASP compliance
• In-depth understanding of payment systems, card schemes, and cross-border payment regulations
• Familiarity with sanctions regimes (UN, OFAC, EU, HMT) and screening technologies

Education & Professional Certifications

• Bachelor's degree in Law, Finance, Business Administration, or related discipline; Master's preferred
• Preferred: CAMS (Certified Anti-Money Laundering Specialist), ICA Diploma in Compliance, or equivalent
• Preferred: Additional certifications in financial crime prevention (CFCS, CFE), risk management (FRM, PRM)