Head of Compliance – MENA

Job Description

Job Description

Job Title: Head of Compliance – MENA

Job Description: The Head of Compliance MENA will own the full compliance agenda for Airwallex’s UAE operations — designing AML/CFT frameworks, managing regulatory licensing, engaging with CBUAE and DFSA, and building a compliance function that enables sustainable regional growth.

Responsibilities:

• Lead Airwallex’s compliance function for MENA — building and owning the regional compliance framework
• Design and implement AML/CFT programmes, customer due diligence, transaction monitoring, and sanctions screening for UAE operations
• Act as primary regulatory interface with CBUAE, DFSA, and other UAE regulators — managing licensing processes, regulatory reporting, and supervisory engagements
• Partner with the global Airwallex Compliance team to align UAE compliance with group standards and policies
• Develop and implement risk-based compliance monitoring and testing programmes
• Provide compliance advisory to Airwallex’s UAE commercial and product teams
• Lead regulatory change implementation as new UAE payment regulations and guidelines are introduced
• Build and develop the MENA compliance team as Airwallex scales regional operations

Qualifications Needed:

• Significant experience in a senior compliance or MLRO role within a licensed payments company, fintech, or financial institution in the UAE
• Deep knowledge of CBUAE and/or DFSA regulatory frameworks for payment service providers
• Proven AML/CFT programme design and management experience
• Track record building compliance functions from early stage in a high-growth environment
• Experience engaging with UAE regulators on licensing, regulatory submissions, and supervisory reviews
• ICA, ACAMS, or equivalent compliance qualifications preferred

What the Company Offers:

• Foundational compliance leadership role at a US$8B global payments platform entering the MENA market
• Full regional compliance ownership with direct regulator engagement mandate
• Backed by Visa, Mastercard, T. Rowe Price, and Sequoia
• 200,000+ business clients globally including Brex, Rippling, Navan, and Qantas
• Competitive compensation and equity opportunity in a high-growth global fintech

Are you interested in this position? Apply by clicking on the “Apply Now” button below!

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