Compliance Operations Specialist

About the Role

We are seeking a detail-focused, responsible, and proactive Compliance Operations Specialist to assist in daily compliance functions, regulatory procedures, internal controls, and operational risk management within the United Arab Emirates. This role involves working closely with teams in compliance, legal, finance, risk, and operations to implement effective compliance processes, maintain records, monitor regulatory activities, and manage associated risks.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist with daily compliance operations and the execution of regulatory activities.
• Help develop and uphold compliance policies and procedures.
• Perform compliance verifications and operational assessments based on guidelines.
• Support KYC, customer due diligence (CDD), and enhanced due diligence (EDD) reviews as relevant.
• Contribute to AML/CFT monitoring, customer screening, and related compliance assessments.
• Conduct verification of customers, suppliers, transactions, or business activities following internal protocols.
• Oversee compliance alerts, cases, investigations, and the subsequent actions.
• Maintain precise compliance documentation, logs, and evidence for auditability.
• Assist in preparing regulatory reports and answering information inquiries.
• Keep abreast of changes in laws, regulations, and internal compliance standards.
• Identify and assess compliance risks and potential internal control gaps.
• Escalate suspicious activities, policy violations, and operational risks to pertinent departments.
• Track and follow up on corrective measures and improvements.
• Provide assistance during internal/external audits, regulatory inspections, and compliance reviews.
• Coordinate with internal departments for required documentation and data.
• Generate compliance performance reports, dashboards, and updates for management.
• Support awareness initiatives, training programs, and communications relating to compliance.
• Review and recommend enhancements to business processes for compliance effectiveness.
• Ensure confidentiality and secure handling of sensitive business and customer information.
• Contribute to continuous enhancements of compliance systems and operational controls.

Desired Skills and Qualities

• Strong accuracy and attention to detail.
• Solid understanding of compliance principles and regulatory frameworks.
• Effective analytical and investigative capabilities.
• Excellent organizational skills and ability to manage time efficiently.
• Knowledge of risk management and internal control systems.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management.
• Ability to detect inconsistencies and potential risks in documents.
• High levels of professionalism, ethics, integrity, and confidentiality.
• Strong problem-solving and task follow-up skills.
• Capable of handling multiple tasks and deadlines simultaneously.
• Proficient in documentation and reporting.
• Comfortable working independently or within diverse multicultural teams.
• Motivation to learn evolving regulatory requirements and compliance tools.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or diploma in Law, Compliance, Finance, Accounting, Business Administration, Risk Management, Economics, or related disciplines.
• Experience or familiarity with compliance operations, AML/KYC, risk management, internal audit, financial or legal operations is preferential.
• Recent graduates or early-career candidates with relevant knowledge are encouraged to apply.
• Acquainted with KYC, AML/CFT, sanctions screening, transaction monitoring, and internal controls preferred.
• Experience using compliance management systems, CRMs, ERPs, case-management, or screening software is advantageous.
• Certifications such as CAMS, ICA, CCEP, or equivalent add value.
• Competence in Microsoft Excel, Word, PowerPoint, and business intelligence tools.
• Fluent English communication skills; Arabic or other languages are beneficial.
• Understanding of UAE and broader Middle East legal and regulatory environments strongly favored.

Benefits & Opportunities

• Professional role in compliance operations based in the UAE.
• Flexible working arrangements including hybrid and remote options.
• Chance to develop expertise in regulatory compliance and operational risk management.
• Exposure to an international work environment with multicultural colleagues and stakeholders.
• Opportunities for growth and learning in AML/KYC, compliance monitoring, and governance.
• Comprehensive training and mentoring provided.
• Supportive workplace fostering collaboration and career progression.
• Chance to build a long-term career in compliance, regulatory affairs, and risk management.

Application Instructions

Candidates are encouraged to submit a detailed CV explaining education, experience in compliance or regulatory fields, AML/KYC exposure, analytical skills, systems expertise, international experience, and professional accomplishments related to this role. Applications from professionals such as Compliance Analysts, AML/KYC Analysts, Regulatory Assistants, Risk Analysts, Internal Control Specialists, recent graduates, and those beginning their compliance career are invited.