Head of Compliance / MLRO

About the role

This role is the company's primary point of contact for all AML/CFT matters, with direct and unrestricted access to the Board of Directors and/or Audit Committee. It covers the development and oversight of AML/CFT policies, controls, training and reporting, and the leadership of the enterprise-wide risk management framework.

Key responsibilities

• Develop, implement and maintain AML/CFT policies, procedures and internal controls in line with CBB directives, international best practice and the AML Law.
• Act as the main contact with the Central Bank of Bahrain (CBB), the Financial Intelligence Directorate (FID) and other regulators, including reporting suspicious transactions and answering regulatory queries.
• File Suspicious Transaction Reports (STRs) with the FID and CBB, and produce periodic AML/CFT reports for the Board.
• Design and deliver an annual AML/CFT training programme, keep attendance logs and assess its effectiveness.
• Ensure a risk-based approach, including customer risk profiles, high-risk relationships, enhanced due diligence and ongoing risk review.
• Oversee the transaction monitoring system: define red flags, set alert thresholds, review alerts and ensure timely investigation and closure.
• Ensure compliance with record-keeping obligations (CDD files, STR filings, transaction history, training records) and continuous customer monitoring.
• Draft and update the AML/CFT manual, advise senior management on compliance risks and keep them informed of regulatory developments.
• Provide AML/CFT input on new products, services and customer categories, and lead the Enterprise-Wide Risk Management Framework.

Required profile

• Bachelor's degree in Law, Finance, Business or a related field.
• 10+ years of experience in compliance and/or financial crime roles, with meaningful experience in payments, e-money, fintech or financial services.
• Demonstrated experience as, or readiness to be approved as, a Compliance Officer and/or MLRO.
• Strong knowledge of the Bahrain regulatory environment; professional certification such as ICA, CAMS/ACAMS or equivalent preferred.
• Comfortable working hands-on in an early-stage, fast-moving environment.

Required skills

• AML/CTF frameworks, KYC/KYB, sanctions and transaction monitoring.
• Developing and implementing compliance policies, frameworks and controls.
• Risk management, regulatory reporting and compliance monitoring.
• Written and verbal communication in English and Arabic.