Senior Manager - Compliance & Internal Control

Summary

The Senior Manager Compliance & Internal Control is responsible for leading and overseeing the organization’s compliance framework, governance, and internal control environment. This role ensures full alignment with applicable UAE and international regulations, including Securities and Commodities Authority (SCA) requirements, and strengthens the company’s risk management culture.

The position serves as the primary regulatory contact, advises senior leadership on compliance matters, and ensures the company operates with integrity, transparency, and operational excellence.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Compliance Leadership

• Develop, implement, and continuously enhance the company’s compliance and internal control strategy in alignment with regulatory requirements and business objectives.
• Serve as the main point of contact for regulatory authorities (e.g., SCA, DIFC, ADGM) and maintain strong relationships to ensure proactive engagement and timely compliance.
• Advise the Board of Directors and Executive Management on compliance risks, emerging regulatory trends, and strategic implications.

Regulatory & Risk Oversight

• Oversee the adequacy and effectiveness of internal control frameworks, risk management practices, and corporate governance processes.
• Lead the implementation and monitoring of AML, CTF, and financial crime prevention programs.
• Ensure timely updates to policies, procedures, and SOPs in line with evolving regulations.
• Approve and submit regulatory reports, including Capital Adequacy, AuMs, and other statutory filings.

Operational Compliance Management

• Direct the compliance review process for advertising, client communications, disclosures, and investment products.
• Oversee and validate the accuracy and reliability of financial statements and client account records submitted to regulators.
• Lead internal investigations, ensuring proper documentation, reporting, and remedial actions.
• Monitor conflict of interest situations and ensure appropriate handling in line with policy.

People & Culture

• Lead, mentor, and develop the Compliance and Internal Control team to ensure high performance and strong regulatory knowledge.
• Promote a compliance driven culture across all departments through training, awareness programs, and proactive communication.
• Foster cross functional collaboration to ensure compliance integration across operations, finance, risk, and product development.

Governance & Reporting

• Prepare and present regular compliance and audit reports to the Board of Directors.
• Recommend process improvements to strengthen governance and operational efficiency.
• Ensure prompt and appropriate action in response to identified violations, including escalation to the Board or external authorities where required.

Knowledge & Skills

• Strong leadership and stakeholder management capabilities.
• Deep understanding of UAE and international regulatory environments for financial services and capital markets.
• Strategic problem solving and decision making abilities.
• Exceptional communication and presentation skills, including the ability to engage with regulators and senior executives.

Qualifications

• ICA certifications in Compliance, Legal Compliance, AML, Client Due Diligence, Fraud Management, Sanctions Risk, or Financial Crime Risk in Banking & Markets.
• Bachelor’s degree with UAE Ministry of Education equivalency (Master’s preferred).
• Professional qualifications such as CPA, CIA, CMA, Master Financial Controller, Chartered Development Finance Analyst, or SCA license (or equivalent).

Experience

• Minimum 10 years of progressive compliance and governance experience, with at least 5 years in a leadership role within investment banking, capital markets, or regulated financial institutions.
• Demonstrated track record of managing regulatory relationships and driving compliance strategy at a senior level.