Head of Compliance (DFSA)

Head of Compliance

Location: Dubai, UAE

Industry: Financial Services / Capital Markets

We are partnering with a dynamic and forward-thinking financial services firm in Dubai to identify a Head of Compliance who will lead and elevate the firm's compliance function. This is a critical leadership role, ideal for someone with strategic vision, hands-on expertise, and a passion for fostering a culture of integrity, ethics, and regulatory excellence.

Key Responsibilities:

• Ensure full compliance with applicable laws, regulatory frameworks, and internal policies across multiple jurisdictions.
• Design, implement, and continuously refine compliance policies, procedures, and control frameworks that align with global standards and local regulations.
• Identify and mitigate legal, regulatory, and reputational risks across all business lines, advising senior leadership on proactive risk strategies.
• Act as the primary point of contact with regulators (e.g. DFSA/ADGM), nurturing constructive relationships and overseeing timely, accurate reporting and filings.
• Collaborate with global compliance and surveillance teams to develop robust systems that detect potential breaches, market abuse, or misconduct.
• Develop and lead training programs that embed a culture of compliance and ethical behaviour across the organisation.
• Lead sensitive internal investigations, managing conflicts of interest, suspected breaches, or misconduct with objectivity and confidentiality.
• Advise senior management and the Board on governance practices, ensuring alignment with international best practice.
• Provide forward-looking compliance guidance on new business initiatives, regulatory developments, and transactions, balancing innovation with risk management.

Qualifications & Experience:

• A degree in Law, Business, Finance or related field; advanced qualifications (LL.M, MBA, JD) are a plus.
• Minimum 10 years experience in senior compliance roles within financial services, preferably brokerage, capital markets, or investment banking.
• Strong understanding of UAE regulatory frameworks (DFSA, ADGM), and broader MENA/international market regulations.
• Proven leadership in managing compliance teams and navigating complex, cross-border regulatory environments.
• Excellent interpersonal skills, with the gravitas to engage effectively with regulators, executive leadership, and the Board.