Compliance Officer & MLRO, UAE (60%)

Job description

About the role

We are looking for a proactive and detail-oriented Compliance Officer & Money Laundering Reporting Officer (MLRO) to join our team in Abu Dhabi (ADGM). This role is critical to ensuring our operations are fully compliant with FSRA regulations whilst promoting a culture of regulatory excellence, integrity and innovation - core values at Sygnum.

Main tasks

• Regulatory Compliance & Risk Culture: Ensure full compliance with ADGM FSRA rules and regulations, including AML, client onboarding and periodic reviews. Promote a strong risk-aware culture within the organization.
• Policy Development & Governance: Design, maintenance and continuous improvement of compliance manuals, risk frameworks and internal control policies in line with evolving regulatory expectations.
• Client Due Diligence & Onboarding: Lead KYC processes for individual and institutional clients, including risk assessments, document reviews and onboarding approvals. Ensure compliance with Sygnum's digital asset onboarding protocols.
• Monitoring, Review & Reporting: Conduct regular compliance reviews and thematic monitoring activities. Prepare and submit reports to senior management and regulators to ensure transparent and timely escalation of issues.
• Regulatory Communications: acting as the primary point of contact for the FSRA, managing inspections, inquiries and regulatory communications with professionalism and clarity.
• Training & Awareness: Design and deliver compliance training programs to ensure all employees are up to date with regulatory developments, internal policies and best practices in digital asset compliance.

Ideal candidate

• Degree in law, finance, economics, business administration or a related field.
• At least 3+ years of experience in compliance within an ADGM or DIFC regulated financial institution, ideally with experience in digital assets or fintech.
• Strong knowledge of FSRA regulations, UAE AML/CFT framework and international compliance standards.
• Hands-on experience with KYC, CDD and private asset onboarding in the UAE, with an understanding of risk-based approaches tailored to digital asset clients.
• Excellent analytical, organizational and communication skills, with the ability to work cross-functionally in a fast-paced, regulated environment.

Nice to Have

• Advanced certifications such as ICA, ACAMS, CFA or equivalent are highly valued.
• Familiarity with FINMA regulations, the Swiss banking system and cross-border compliance aspects is a strong plus.

Our offer

• To be part of a dynamic, global team building a trusted interface between the traditional and digital asset economy.
• Work in a fast-paced, exciting environment that promotes meritocracy, collaboration and open communication.
• A comprehensive package of benefits for all team members.