Compliance Manager, Finance & Banking

Job Title:

Manager Compliance

Reports To:

Director – Compliance

Location:

Dubai, UAE

Direct Reports: N/A

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 Reg Tech solutions. Our business presence covers multiple jurisdictions with offices in the UAE, KSA, UK & Ireland, Singapore, Porto, Pakistan, Qatar and now in South Africa. We provide Regulatory Governance, Risk, Compliance, Finance, Recruitment and Technology services (the “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.

The purpose of this role is to support the Director of Compliance in managing a portfolio of client mandates and driving the firm’s compliance growth strategy across Dubai and the wider UAE. The role is instrumental in strengthening client relationships, converting them into new business opportunities, and ensuring the delivery of robust regulatory compliance and anti‑money laundering frameworks. By executing best‑in‑class compliance solutions, the role contributes to maintaining the firm’s reputation for integrity, regulatory excellence, and client trust.

Manage and expand the compliance client portfolio while supporting business growth across Dubai and the wider UAE

• Increase in new client mandates secured
• Strengthened client retention and satisfaction
• Growth in brand visibility and market presence

Deliver high‑quality regulatory compliance and AML services to clients

• Timely and accurate delivery of regulatory licenses and filings
• Positive client feedback on compliance support
• Zero regulatory breaches or audit findings

Act as a trusted outsourced Compliance Officer and MLRO

• Effective communication with regulators
• Timely resolution of compliance issues
• Demonstrated adherence to regulatory standards

Develop and implement robust compliance and AML frameworks and training programs

• Policies and procedures updated and aligned with current regulations
• Regular AML and compliance training conducted
• Improved compliance awareness among clients

Contribute to firm culture, brand, and people development

• Positive internal and external stakeholder feedback
• Support in recruitment and retention initiatives
• Active mentorship and knowledge sharing within the team

• Regulatory Expertise – Demonstrable experience in liaising with regulatory authorities across the UAE and wider MENA region.
• Strategic Leadership – Ability to create and implement compliance programs that drive organizational effectiveness.
• Analytical & Problem‑Solving Skills – Exceptional capability to analyze complex regulatory issues and provide actionable solutions.
• Integrity & Accountability – Maintains the highest ethical standards, ensures compliance, and demonstrates reliability in all activities.
• Stakeholder Management – Skilled in building partnerships, influencing clients, regulators, and internal teams, and fostering collaborative relationships.
• Ability to design, implement, and oversee regulatory compliance frameworks within financial services organizations.
• Proven experience in adapting to evolving regulatory landscapes and translating requirements into practical business solutions.
• Strong organizational skills to manage multiple compliance projects and deliverables effectively
• Except…