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 compliant with FSRA regulations and fostering a culture of regulatory excellence, integrity and innovation - values that are central to Sygnum.

Main tasks

• Regulatory Compliance & Risk Culture: Ensure full compliance with ADGM FSRA rules and regulations, including AML, client onboarding and regular reviews. Promote a strong risk-aware culture within the organization.
• Policy Development & Governance: Draft, maintain and continuously improve 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, Testing & Reporting: Conducting regular compliance reviews and thematic monitoring activities. Preparation and submission of reports to senior management and regulators to ensure transparent and timely escalation of issues.
• Regulatory Engagement: acting as the main point of contact for the FSRA, managing inspections, inquiries and regulatory communications with professionalism and clarity.
• Training & Awareness: Design and delivery of compliance training programs to ensure that all employees are up to date with regulatory developments, internal policies and best practices in the area of 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 wealth 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

• Participate in a dynamic, global team that builds a trusted interface between the traditional and digital asset economy.
• Experience a fast-paced, exciting work environment that promotes meritocracy, collaboration and open communication.
• A comprehensive package of benefits for all team members, including: