Chief Compliance Officer and MLRO, UAE

Company Description

Zodia Custody is the leading institution-first digital asset custodian established by Standard Chartered, Northern Trust, SBI Holdings and National Australia Bank. Our focus is on enabling institutional investors globally to navigate the digital asset future simply, safely, and without compromise. Through cutting-edge technology, custody solutions, governance, and compliance services, Zodia Custody meets the intricate needs of institutional investors.

Role Description

This is a full-time role for a Chief Compliance Officer in the ADGM, performing the approved role as Compliance officer/MLRO pursuant to ADGM FSRA requirements. The individual will be responsible for safeguarding Zodia against financial crime by establishing and maintaining a robust compliance framework, proactively managing regulatory requirements, and mitigating emerging risks. This is a fast-paced role within a high-performing environment. The ideal candidate is an experienced compliance professional with deep knowledge of financial crime and compliance regulations in traditional finance, along with experience or a strong interest in digital assets.

Key Responsibilities

1. The individual will serve as the MLRO (Money Laundering Reporting Officer) and Compliance Officer for Zodia Custody’s operations within the ADGM pursuant to FSRA requirements and approval.
2. Data Protection Officer as per applicable FSRA and UAE Regulatory requirements.
3. Responsible for developing a Financial Crime and Compliance controls framework covering anti-financial crime (AML, Sanctions, Fraud, ABC, tax evasion), data privacy, conduct, conflicts of interest, amongst other core compliance areas, pursuant to Zodia Group, and FSRA and ADGM regulatory requirements.
4. Development of policies, standards and processes to ensure adherence with all local regulatory requirements.
5. Leading the licensing initiatives for Zodia Custody in the UAE, including the FSRA license application.
6. Primary liaison with the FSRA and other applicable UAE regulatory authorities.
7. Performing the role of MLRO and responsible for submission of suspicious activity reports to the local FIU.
8. Overseeing the effective operation of compliance and financial crime process operation, including executing 2nd line control sample testing.
9. Collaborate with Group Compliance leadership to create strategic plans and guarantee the timely achievement of essential compliance initiatives and objectives covering global and UAE local compliance controls.
10. Establish and lead the compliance team for the UAE region, including supporting recruitment of key compliance 1st and 2nd line staff across two entities, and associated oversight of effective execution.
11. Execution of client onboarding, screening and blockchain investigations, as well as other operational compliance-related tasks for UAE clients.
12. Conducting risk assessments, and comprehensive training for UAE staff.
13. Representing Zodia Custody at local market events, including participating as a speaker on panels.

Requirements

1. More than 10+ years’ experience in a Senior level Financial Crime and Compliance role, including Previous experience holding an approved MLRO role with a firm, and overseeing a compliance function.
2. A subject matter expert in UAE, ADGM and FSRA Financial Crime and Compliance requirements including but not limited to AML, CTF, Sanctions, ABC, conflicts of interest, data privacy and conduct.
3. Takes a proactive approach with a strong willingness to engage directly in tasks and fulfil responsibilities effectively. Consistently delivers high performance and maintains a high level of productivity in a fast-paced environment.
4. Extensive knowledge of FSRA and other UAE applicable regulatory frameworks for digital asset firms and associated financial crime and compliance risks.
5. Experience in managing a team and acting in a leadership capacity.
6. You are based in ADGM or can regularly travel to ADGM for work.
7. You have experience working in a digital asset firm and/or have extensive knowledge of digital assets, preferably custody, and are proficient in utilising blockchain analytics tools.
8. Exceptional communication skills, fostering trust and transparency across all levels of the organization.

Benefits

• Private Health Insurance
• Performance Bonus
• ESOP shares
• 30 days annual leave (plus bank holidays)