Investigations Officer (UAEN)

Job Purpose:

To support the detection and prevention of breaches of the Financial Services Prohibition, Financial Promotions Prohibition and DNFBP Prohibition.

To support DFSA Investigations with the timely gathering and analysis of Open-Source Intelligence (OSINT). To work with teams across the DFSA to help optimise analysis of internal data sources.

Key Responsibilities:

• Gather and conduct systematic open-source intelligence (OSINT) collection from publicly available sources, including media, social platforms, databases, website and public records and provide analysis of open-source intelligence.
• Analyse and validate collected data to identify patterns, trends, risks and insights.
• Ensure accuracy, relevance and objectivity in all analytical outputs,
• Prepare structured intelligence reports, briefings and summaries for internal stakeholders, including factual data and overall analysis.
• Monitoring and enhancing alert platforms for emerging risks, threats, reputational issues, or relevant developments.
• Provide background, entity and subject proofing in line with approved scope and legal framework.
• Analysis of internal and external data sources to improve detection of unauthorised business activity in the DIFC.
• Carrying out investigation of suspected breaches of the Financial Services Prohibition, Financial Promotions Prohibition and DNFBP Prohibition.
• Supporting the DFSA’s Complaints and Whistle-blowing Management functions.
• Maintaining subject matter expertise in OSINT, assisting with delivery of training on OSINT techniques to other DFSA colleagues.
• Maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive information with discretion.
• Maintain proper documentation, logs and audit trails of OSINT activities.
• Prepare timely and accurate regulatory and ENF reports satisfying the standards and expectations of the division, the DFSA and its various committees.

Eligibility Criteria:

• Bachelor’s degree (Intelligence Studies, Criminology, Data Science or similar).
• Possess familiarity with financial services regulation and its application in the DIFC.
• Exposure to structured research and analytical reporting is essential.

Minimum Experience:

• Minimum 1-3 year post graduate experience in a regulatory, civil or law enforcement agency in an investigation or analyst role.
• Demonstrable experience with OSINT tools and procedures. Proficiency with one or more of the follow applications; Analyst Notebook, Power BI, Nuix, Relativity.
• Familiarity with AI and data visualisation tools.

Knowledge, Skills & Attributes:

• Strong English and Arabic Language skills.
• High ethical standards and commitment to integrity and transparency.
• Strong research and analytical skills with attention to detail.
• Ability to assess credibility, bias and reliability of open sources.
• Strong written communication and report writing skills.
• Critical thinking and sound judgement.
• Produce timely, logical, and concise analytic reports, documents, assessments, and briefing materials.
• Proficiency in using structured analytical techniques to challenge judgements, identify mind-sets and manage uncertainty.
• A familiarity with artificial intelligence and its potential applications in the intelligence cycle.
• Works efficiently under pressure.
• Ability to handle sensitive situations/confidential materials with tact and discretion.