Compliance Lead

About Pemo

The role

What you’ll do

• Own CBUAE correspondence, inspections, information requests and supervisory dialogue, and build relationships with UAE regulatory bodies and partners.
• Lead the CBUAE licensing compliance workstream and maintain audit readiness after licensing.
• Execute compliance policies, procedures, controls and a risk-based Compliance Monitoring Programme.
• Run the Enterprise-Wide Risk Assessment and compliance reviews, translating findings into practical fixes.
• Own the AML/CFT programme as MLRO, including CDD and KYB standards, sanctions screening, transaction monitoring and STR filing.
• Track regulatory changes, assess business impact and drive implementation with relevant owners.
• Prepare CBUAE compliance reports and updates for senior management and the Board.
• Design technology-led compliance processes and embed compliance in product development, marketing and customer service.

Must have

• 7+ years in compliance or AML/CFT within regulated financial services, fintech or payments, including leading compliance workstreams or a small team.
• Direct CBUAE experience, including inspections, licensing or regulatory submissions.
• Strong working knowledge of UAE AML/CFT laws and the CBUAE framework; Stored Value Facilities and Retail Payment Services regulations are identified as ideal.
• Track record of building compliance frameworks, not only operating them.
• Clear, practical writing and confidence explaining compliance to senior leaders and regulators.
• Eligibility for CBUAE approval as a compliance officer or MLRO.

Nice to have

• Experience in card issuing, corporate cards, B2B fintech or payments.
• Hands-on experience with goAML, screening and transaction monitoring systems.
• Exposure to other GCC regulators.
• Professional Arabic, including drafting regulatory correspondence.