Role Overview
bytespark.ai is seeking a technically excellent and commercially aware Compliance Manager for our client who is a CAT3c InvestmentFund, and a prestigious DIFC-regulated financial services firm. This is a hands-on, practitioner-level role ideal for a compliance professional with 3-5 years of experience ready for their first Approved Person position. The successful candidate will be fully accountable to the DFSA, responsible for designing, implementing, and managing a robust compliance framework. This includes leading all AML/CFT activity as the designated MLRO and owning the firm's relationship with the regulator. You will personally execute the annual Compliance Monitoring Programme, provide expert guidance to the business, and ensure all regulatory reporting is completed accurately and on time. This role offers a unique opportunity to grow into a senior compliance leader within a dynamic environment, carrying full DFSA Senior Management Function (SMF) accountability.
Requirements
- 3-5 years of compliance experience within a DFSA-regulated firm, ADGM-regulated firm, or a similar GCC financial services entity.
- Must currently hold or be demonstrably eligible for DFSA Approved Person status for the Compliance Officer (CO) function.
- Direct, hands-on experience applying the DFSA Rulebook, including GEN, COB, and AML modules.
- Proven practical experience in AML/CFT, including conducting CDD/EDD, handling SARs/STRs, and managing sanctions screening.
- Experience in designing, implementing, and executing a Compliance Monitoring Programme (CMP).
- Demonstrated ability to independently author regulatory reports, compliance policies, and board-level papers.
- Bachelor's degree in Law, Finance, Business, or a related field.
- Experience acting as the primary regulatory contact during inspections or supervisory visits.
Desirable
- Professional compliance qualification such as ICA Diploma in Compliance or CAMS.
- Prior experience holding the Money Laundering Reporting Officer (MLRO) function.
- Experience in compliance within an investment management or asset management context in the DIFC.
- Familiarity with the UAE Federal AML Law and goAML reporting platform.
- Experience managing or mentoring junior compliance staff.