Compliance Team Lead

Company Description

Established in 2007 and headquartered in Abu Dhabi, Property Shop Investment LLC (PSI) stands as the largest private real estate company in the UAE. Renowned for its commitment to excellence and dynamic performance, PSI has developed a strong reputation as a platinum real estate company, collaborating with leading developers in Abu Dhabi and Dubai. PSI offers a comprehensive range of services, including property brokerage, development consultancy, real estate marketing, investment advisory, property appraisal, and property management. With a dedicated and specialized team spanning sales, leasing, marketing, and business development, PSI is committed to delivering outstanding and hassle-free real estate experiences. Recognized with multiple awards from well-regarded developers, PSI continues to set industry benchmarks in the UAE real estate market.

About the Role

The Compliance Team Lead (AML/CFT) is responsible for developing, implementing, and maintaining a robust Anti-Money Laundering and Countering the Financing of Terrorism (AML/CFT) compliance framework. This role ensures that the organization's operations align with relevant laws, regulatory requirements, and industry best practices, effectively mitigating financial crime risks and safeguarding the company's integrity.

Key Responsibilities
1. AML/CFT Program Management

• Develop, implement, and maintain an effective AML/CFT compliance program, including policies, procedures, and internal controls.
• Ensure the program adequately prevents, detects, and responds to risks related to money laundering, terrorist financing, and other financial crimes.
• Continuously update the AML/CFT framework in line with changes in legislation, regulatory guidelines, and emerging financial crime trends.

2. Compliance Risk Assessment

• Conduct and oversee regular compliance risk assessments to identify vulnerabilities associated with customer behavior, products, services, and geographic exposure.
• Develop and implement corrective action plans to address identified gaps and mitigate risks.
• Monitor the effectiveness of implemented controls and ensure timely remediation of issues.

3. Monitoring, Testing, and Reporting

• Manage the compliance monitoring and testing program to ensure that findings from audits and reviews are addressed promptly.
• Lead investigations into potential AML/CFT breaches and ensure appropriate corrective measures are executed.
• Prepare and submit the MLRO report on compliance performance to senior management and the board.
• Ensure accurate, timely reporting of suspicious activities and transactions to the relevant authorities.

4. Due Diligence and Investigations

• Oversee customer due diligence (CDD) processes for high-risk clients, including enhanced due diligence (EDD) for PEPs, high-net-worth individuals, and complex corporate structures.
• Ensure all due diligence activities adhere to legal and regulatory requirements and reduce exposure to financial crime.
• Lead internal investigations related to suspicious activity, compliance breaches, or escalated risk cases.

5. Training and Advisory

• Develop and deliver AML/CFT training programs for employees at all levels to strengthen awareness and understanding of regulatory obligations and internal processes.
• Provide expert guidance to staff and leadership on applying and interpreting AML/CFT laws, regulations, and internal policies.
• Act as a primary compliance advisor to senior management and the board on compliance matters, emerging risks, and key trends.

6. Regulatory Engagement

• Liaise with regulatory bodies and law enforcement agencies as required, ensuring timely submission of mandatory reports and disclosures.
• Represent the organization in discussions or inquiries related to AML/CFT compliance.
• Stay informed about new regulatory developments and enforcement actions, adjusting the compliance program as needed.

7. Team Leadership

• Train, mentor, and supervise the compliance team to ensure they remain well-informed about AML/CFT regulations and perform their responsibilities effectively.
• Foster a culture of compliance, accountability, and continuous improvement within the team.

8. Technology and Automation

• Leverage technology solutions to enhance the efficiency and accuracy of AML/CFT compliance operations.
• Oversee the implementation and optimization of systems and tools for monitoring, transaction analysis, reporting, and case management.

Qualifications & Skills (Optional Add-On)

• Bachelor's degree in Law, Finance, Business, or related field (Master's preferred).
• Professional certifications such as
  CAMS
  ,
  CRMS
  , or equivalent AML/CFT credentials.
• Strong understanding of local and international AML/CFT regulations.
• Proven experience in compliance leadership within financial services, real estate, banking, or similar regulated sectors.
• Excellent analytical, investigative, and communication skills.
• Proficiency with AML/CFT technology platforms and risk assessment tools.