Head of Compliance UAE (UAE Branch)

Job purpose

This position leads the UAE compliance function for NBB and serves as the central contact for all compliance-related matters. The role ensures that business activities in the UAE align with local regulations, internal policies and procedures, and the organization’s code of conduct. It also requires close coordination with Head Office Compliance and the maintenance of a regular reporting structure.

Strategic responsibilities

• Set the compliance function in NBB UAE to industry-leading standards.
• Design an effective team structure with strong talent to meet institutional needs.
• Ensure the compliance framework covers all required areas and is aligned with the bank’s strategy.
• Help strengthen a strong compliance culture across the organization.
• Act as the main liaison with regulatory authorities in the jurisdictions where the bank operates.
• Reduce regulatory and reputational exposure at all times.
• Represent NBB UAE in compliance forums and relevant external meetings.
• Support the bank’s image as an institution with a strong compliance framework.

Business development

• Revise the overall compliance framework and assign responsibilities clearly.
• Keep the framework current with changing regulatory and market expectations.
• Review and update compliance policies and procedures as needed.
• Serve as the subject matter lead for compliance matters across all business and functional lines.
• Coordinate compliance interactions with correspondent banks and ensure their requirements are properly addressed.
• Implement the bank’s compliance manual and oversee the compliance plan and programme.
• Supervise periodic compliance reviews and testing, and report findings to the Branch CEO and Head Office Compliance.
• Create mechanisms that ensure all UAE activities follow regulatory requirements and protect internal controls.
• Support business growth through cost-effective compliance advisory support to senior management.
• Develop and deliver compliance and AML training so staff remain informed about the latest standards and regulations.
• Chair the UAE Compliance Committee where applicable.
• Manage the bank’s AML and CFT function.
• Oversee complaint management and compliance resolutions, and chair the Compliance Management Committee.
• Update Group Management and the relevant Board Committee on compliance risks and regulatory changes.
• Monitor the Customer Acceptance Policy and assess its effectiveness and suitability.
• Perform other duties assigned by the Group Chief Compliance Officer from time to time.

Compliance risk

• Identify possible compliance gaps and risks, then develop and apply corrective action plans for issues found.
• Recommend practical guidance to prevent similar issues and improve future responses.
• Enhance systems and update policies and procedures to reduce compliance risk and protect the bank from financial and reputational harm.

Compliance monitoring and control

• Work with UAE functions to route compliance matters through the correct channels for investigation and closure.
• Track unusual activity and report it to the relevant authorities and UAE management in line with bank policy.
• Handle and resolve regulatory issues linked to alleged or actual breaches where the bank’s reputation may be affected.
• Ensure violations or possible violations are reported accurately and on time to the appropriate regulators, the Branch CEO UAE, and bank management.

Compliance communication

• Maintain an effective compliance communication program that improves awareness of new and existing obligations, policies, and procedures.

AML and sanctions policy and procedures

• Review AML and other relevant policies annually and keep them updated.
• Ensure applicable regulatory expectations and best practices are incorporated into the policies.
• Oversee policy implementation across the bank.
• Make sure the policy is clearly communicated and local regulatory requirements are properly built in.
• Keep procedures under regular review so they remain effective and reflect current regulatory requirements.
• Maintain AML system parameters across the bank to capture and review potentially high-risk transactions.
• Oversee the implementation of AML systems, including tuning, scenarios, and other FCC projects.

Whistleblowing responsibility

• Set up and manage the whistleblowing function within Compliance.
• Handle reports of violations received through whistleblowing channels.

Stakeholder management

• Work with internal stakeholders such as group heads, Human Resources, and Legal to keep the compliance agenda high priority across NBB UAE.
• Engage with external stakeholders and regulators to support smooth execution of all compliance activities.

Learning and development

• Act as a subject matter expert and contribute to learning and development initiatives, including training content, to improve relevance and value.

MIS and reports

• Prepare Compliance Department reports accurately and on time, in line with industry standards and Head Office requirements.
• Create management reporting formats and compliance reports, and update the UAE leadership team to support decision-making.

Consumer protection responsibilities

• Monitor compliance with Consumer Protection Regulations and related Standards.
• Educate operational teams about their responsibilities under Consumer Protection Regulations and Standards.
• Ensure the organization’s code of conduct is followed.
• Review the annual consumer protection report and identify gaps or improvement areas.
• Escalate major non-compliance issues related to Consumer Protection Regulations and Standards to governance committees.
• Ensure all time-sensitive consumer protection reports are submitted within deadlines.

Qualifications and experience

A bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Finance, Accounting, Commerce, or a related discipline is required. A master’s degree in one of these fields is preferred, and a relevant professional qualification is also preferred. The role requires at least 7 years of practical banking experience, including 5 years in the same or a similar function.

Additional information

Applications are restricted to UAE nationals only.