Director of Compliance

J. Awan & Partners

About J. Awan & Partners

At J. Awan & Partners, we believe in "challenging the status quo every day", delivering seamless excellence to our customers across the world. We challenge the status quo by making tailor-made solutions to meet the specific requirements of our client's business interests and delivering our solutions to their needs with effective simplicity. We understand that time is precious and as such our tailor-made solutions are simple to understand, simple to embed and simple to use.

We are a fast-growing international Governance, Risk and Compliance (GRC) Consultancy with our headquarters in the Dubai International Finance Centre (DIFC). We also have our own Technology company creating bespoke cutting-edge RegTech solutions. Our business presence covers multiple jurisdictions with offices in the UAE, KSA, UK & Ireland, Singapore, Porto, Pakistan, Qatar, and now South Africa. We provide Regulatory Governance, Risk, Compliance, Finance, Recruitment and Technology services to a large number of clients including global, regional and local financial services institutions, governments and other industry partners. As part of our global expansion plan, we are now looking for an ambitious and agile professional with a strong background in Compliance to join our team.

Mission / Purpose of the Role

The Director Compliance will report to the Deputy CEO and oversee a portfolio of client mandates while ensuring the delivery of industry-leading regulatory compliance and AML/CTF programs across Abu Dhabi and the wider UAE. The role is responsible for supporting clients in structuring and implementing robust compliance frameworks, maintaining strong regulatory alignment, and serving as a key point of coordination with relevant authorities. In addition, the Director will contribute to JAP's growth strategy by converting existing company relationships into new business opportunities and driving the expansion of the compliance practice across the UAE.

Key Accountabilities

Regulatory Compliance & Governance

• Act as primary contact with ADGM/FSRA; monitor and implement regulatory changes.
• Develop and update internal compliance policies and procedures.
• Conduct risk assessments and report to management and regulators.

AML/CTF & Risk Management

• Serve as MLRO; implement AML/CTF controls.
• Oversee client onboarding, CDD/EDD, and monitoring.
• Investigate suspicious transactions and maintain AML/CTF records.

Business Development & Client Engagement

• Leverage global relationships to source new business and onboard clients.
• Strengthen stakeholder relationships.
• Represent JAP at events and advise clients on compliance.

Training & Awareness

• Develop and deliver compliance and AML/CTF training for staff and clients.
• Provide guidance on regulatory matters.

Audit & Monitoring

• Coordinate internal and external audits.
• Conduct compliance reviews and spot checks.
• Identify and remediate control weaknesses.

Documentation & Reporting

• Maintain records of compliance activities, policies, and reporting.
• Ensure audit readiness and prepare regulatory filings.

Leadership & Communication

• Communicate compliance risks and obligations to senior management.
• Foster relationships with stakeholders, auditors, regulators, and clients.
• Represent consultancy professionally.

Continuous Improvement

• Stay updated on regulatory developments.
• Refine compliance/AML systems, processes, and training.
• Implement best practices.

Personal & Team Responsibilities

• Promote JAP culture and brand.
• Support recruitment, training, and retention.
• Coach and develop team members.

Core Competencies

• Adaptability & Problem-Solving

A highly capable individual who can overcome challenges, adjust to new ways of working, and consistently deliver results in dynamic regulatory environments.

• Collaboration & Partnership Building

Proven ability to build strong partnerships, collaborate effectively, and influence clients, team members, and regulators.

• Analytical Excellence

Demonstrates strong analytical skills with the ability to assess complex regulatory issues, interpret data, and make informed compliance decisions.

• Communication Mastery

Exceptional oral and written communication skills, with the ability to interact professionally and confidently at all levels internally and with clients, auditors, and regulators.

Role-Specific Competencies

• Regulatory & Compliance Expertise

Ability to interpret, apply, and operationalize ADGM/FSRA regulations, ensuring the firm and its clients remain fully compliant.

• AML/CTF Specialist Capability

Equipped to perform MLRO responsibilities, including investigations, SAR reporting, and oversight of CDD/EDD and monitoring processes.

• Independence & Self-Motivation

A highly motivated self-starter with the ability to work independently, manage sensitive matters, and problem-solve without constant supervision.

• Stakeholder Influence & Liaison Skills

Demonstrated capability in managing relationships with regulators, clients, and internal teams, acting as a trusted compliance advisor.

Skills and Knowledge

• Organizational & Time Management

Strong ability to organize tasks, prioritize effectively, manage deadlines, and maintain structured compliance workflows.

• Risk & Regulatory Awareness

Up-to-date knowledge of regulatory requirements, AML/CTF obligations, and risk indicators to support effective monitoring and oversight.

• High-Pressure Execution

Significant ability to perform well in a fast-paced environment, managing multiple compliance deliverables simultaneously.