Head of Quality Assurance for Financial Crime Compliance - Compliance

The Head of FCC QA is responsible for the design, implementation and ongoing management of the Financial Crime Compliance Quality Assurance framework across the bank. The role provides independent second-line assurance over the effectiveness, consistency and regulatory compliance of both second line and first-line financial crime controls (AML, CFT, sanctions, KYC/CDD, transaction monitoring and name screening included).Principal Accountabilities1. QA Framework & GovernanceDevelop, implement, and maintain the FCC QA methodology, standards, and procedures aligned with:UAE Central Bank regulationsFATF recommendationsInternal compliance policiesEnsure QA framework reflects a risk-based approach, prioritising higher-risk business areas and products.Maintain independence from first-line operational execution.2. Annual QA PlanDevelop and obtain approval for the annual QA plan, aligned to:Enterprise-wide financial crime risk assessmentRegulatory prioritiesInternal audit findings and historical issuesEnsure dynamic updates to the plan based on emerging risks or regulatory developments.Track execution against plan and provide periodic status reporting.3. Execution of QA ReviewsLead and oversee QA reviews across key FCC domains:Customer Due Diligence (CDD/KYC)Enhanced Due Diligence (EDD)Transaction MonitoringSanctions ScreeningSuspicious Activity Reporting (SAR/STR)Conduct:File reviewsProcess walkthroughsControl testingEnsure sampling methodologies are statistically valid and risk-based.Assess:Quality, completeness, and accuracy of first-line decisionsAdherence to internal policies and regulatory requirements4. First Line of Defense ReviewEvaluate effectiveness of first-line controls and processes, including:Onboarding proceduresOngoing monitoring frameworksAlert handling and escalationIdentify control gaps, process inefficiencies, and inconsistencies in application.Challenge first-line practices constructively while maintaining independence.5. Issue Identification & RemediationDocument findings with clear root cause analysis and risk impact assessment.Classify issues (e.g., high/medium/low severity) based on regulatory and financial crime risk exposure.Track remediation actions and validate closure.Escalate significant or systemic issues to CCO and relevant governance forums.6. Reporting & MIProduce high-quality management information (MI) and dashboards, including:QA results and trendsThematic issuesRepeat findingsProvide regular reporting to:Chief Compliance OfficerCompliance Committee and or to the BoardHighlight emerging risks and control weaknesses proactively.7. Stakeholder ManagementEngage with:First Line (Operations, Business Units)Second Line (Compliance Advisory, Risk)Internal AuditAct as a subject matter expert on FCC quality and control effectiveness.Support regulatory reviews and inspections as required.Drive enhancements in FCC controls based on QA insights.Benchmark QA practices against international standards and peer institutions.Leverage data analytics and technology to improve QA efficiency and coverage.Build and lead a specialised QA team with expertise in AML/CTF and sanctions.Ensure adequate training, competency frameworks, and performance management.Promote a culture of objectivity, rigor, and professional scepticism.Experience & Qualification5 years’ experience in Compliance Management, Audit, Regulatory experienceBachelor's degree will be preferable law and or economics, finance, riskAML, ICA diploma or equivalentGood understanding of protocols and procedures to be compliant with UAE regulations and requirements.#J-18808-Ljbffr