Deputy MLRO

About the role

This role sits within a major global blockchain organization that operates one of the world’s largest cryptocurrency exchanges. The business serves hundreds of millions of users across more than 100 countries and focuses on secure digital-asset services, transparent fund management, fast trading infrastructure, and a broad suite of products spanning trading, finance, education, research, payments, institutional solutions, and Web3.

The position is based in Dubai and supports compliance leadership in strengthening AML/CFT controls for virtual assets in the UAE, with the possibility of broader regional responsibility over time.

Key responsibilities

• Assist the Compliance and MLRO function in ensuring the business remains aligned with UAE virtual asset rules, including the VARA framework, and in maintaining a compliance scope that may extend regionally.
• Help implement and sustain an AML/CFT program that follows UAE AML legislation and related regulator guidance.
• Support adherence to FATF expectations and regulatory requirements specific to virtual assets.
• Coordinate responses and cooperation with both free zone and federal authorities for inspections, audits, and information requests.
• Provide local oversight of global compliance processes, including fiat and on-chain transaction monitoring and market surveillance.
• Manage day-to-day monitoring alerts and review activity that appears unusual or potentially suspicious.
• Prepare Suspicious Transaction Reports and Suspicious Activity Reports for MLRO review and submission to the UAE Financial Intelligence Unit through GoAML.
• Contribute to the design, improvement, and tuning of automated monitoring solutions.
• Help draft, refine, and maintain AML/CTF policies, procedures, and risk assessments.
• Run AML/CFT awareness sessions for staff and keep teams informed about regulatory changes.

Candidate profile

• You should bring strong attention to detail and a genuine investigative approach.
• You need the ability to communicate clearly and translate complex compliance topics for both internal and external audiences.
• Integrity, discretion, and the ability to manage confidential information are essential.
• Hands-on experience with compliance platforms, case management systems, and blockchain analytics tools such as Chainalysis or Elliptic is advantageous.
• A bachelor’s degree in Finance, Law, Business Administration, or a related field is required.
• You must have at least 8 years of experience in compliance, AML/CFT, or regulatory affairs, ideally within financial services or similar industries in the MEASA region.
• Experience dealing with regional regulators such as VARA, CBUAE, SCA, and FSRA is expected.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving ability is needed, along with a proactive mindset toward identifying and mitigating compliance risk.
• The role requires the ability to work under pressure, meet tight deadlines, and put in long hours when necessary.

What’s offered

• The opportunity to contribute to a leading blockchain ecosystem with global impact.
• Exposure to a collaborative, high-caliber, and flat organizational structure.
• Autonomy to work on fast-moving and distinctive projects in an innovative environment.
• A performance-oriented culture with room for growth and ongoing learning.
• Competitive compensation and company benefits.
• A work-from-home arrangement may be available depending on the needs of the business team.

Additional information

The employer is an equal opportunity organization and values a diverse workforce as a core part of its success.

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The hiring process may involve the use of AI tools to help review applications, screen resumes, and identify inconsistencies or verification signals. These tools support the recruitment team, while final hiring decisions remain with people.