Associate Director of Compliance (Crypto)

Job Title: Associate Director Compliance (Crypto Team)

Reports To: Deputy CEO

Location: Abu Dhabi – (UAE) 

Direct Reports: N/A

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 Crypto Compliance to join our team.

Mission / Purpose of the Role

The Associate 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.

12–18 Month Mission Outcomes (“What Success Looks Like”)

Mission / Outcome → Success Metrics / Measures

1) Ensure full regulatory compliance with ADGM/FSRA/VARA requirements

• All regulatory filings submitted accurately and on time

• No regulatory breaches

• Successful completion of audits without major findings

2) Implement and maintain a robust AML/CTF framework

• 100% of client onboarding and monitoring processes comply with AML/CTF policies

• Timely submission of SARs

• Minimal compliance gaps identified in audits

3) Provide strategic compliance and advisory support to clients

• Positive client feedback on regulatory guidance

• Enhanced client compliance programs with measurable improvements

4) Strengthen business development and client engagement

• New client acquisitions

• Increased market share and revenue from compliance services

• Successful representation at industry events

5) Conduct internal training and awareness programs

• Completion of scheduled compliance and AML/CTF training sessions

• Staff demonstrate understanding through assessments or audits

6) Audit, monitor, and improve compliance processes

• Regular compliance reviews completed

• Identified gaps addressed with corrective action

• Internal controls strengthened

7) Maintain accurate documentation and reporting

• All compliance records, policies, and reports are audit-ready

• Timely submission of regulatory filings

8) Foster leadership, team development, and company culture

• Team members trained and coached

• High engagement scores; positive feedback from colleagues and clients

• Strong promotion of JAP brand and culture

9) Continuously improve compliance and AML/CTF systems

• Implementation of new processes, tools, or automation

• Measurable reduction in compliance risks

• Adoption of industry best practices

Key Accountabilities

Regulatory Compliance & Governance

Key Responsibilities

• Act as primary contact with ADGM/FSRA/VARA; monitor and implement regulatory changes.

• Develop and update internal compliance policies and procedures.

• Conduct risk assessments and report to management and regulators.

Success Indicators

• No regulatory breaches.

• All regulatory filings submitted accurately and on time.

• Audit findings minimal or resolved promptly.

AML/CTF & Risk Management

Key Responsibilities

• Serve as MLRO; implement AML/CTF controls.

• Oversee client onboarding, CDD/EDD, and monitoring.

• Investigate suspicious transactions and maintain AML/CTF records.

Success Indicators

• 100% compliance with AML/CTF procedures.

• Timely submission of SARs.

• Compliance gaps identified and remediated.

Business Development & Client Engagement

Key Responsibilities

• Leverage global relationships to source new business and onboard clients.

• Strengthen stakeholder relationships.

• Represent JAP at events and advise clients on compliance.

Success Indicators

• New client acquisitions and revenue growth.

• Positive client feedback.

• Improved client compliance programs.

Training & Awareness

• Key Responsibilities

• Develop and deliver compliance and AML/CTF training for staff and clients.

• Provide guidance on regulatory matters.

Success Indicators

• Training sessions delivered on schedule.

• Staff demonstrate understanding through assessments or audits.

• High engagement in compliance culture.

Audit & Monitoring

• Key Responsibilities

• Coordinate internal and external audits.

• Conduct compliance reviews and spot checks.

• Identify and remediate control weaknesses.

Success Indicators

• Compliance reviews completed on schedule.

• Gaps addressed with corrective action.

• Strengthened internal controls.

Documentation & Reporting

• Key Responsibilities

• Maintain records of compliance activities, policies, and reporting.

• Ensure audit readiness and prepare regulatory filings.

Success Indicators

• All documentation audit-ready.

• Timely submission of reports and filings.

Leadership & Communication

• Key Responsibilities

• Communicate compliance risks and obligations to senior management.

• Foster relationships with stakeholders, auditors, regulators, and clients.

• Represent consultancy professionally.

Success Indicators

• Effective risk communication.

• Strong stakeholder relationships and professional representation at all levels.

Continuous Improvement

• Key Responsibilities

• Stay updated on regulatory developments.

• Refine compliance/AML systems, processes, and training.

• Implement best practices.

Success Indicators

• Implementation of improved processes/tools.

• Measurable reduction in compliance risk.

• Adoption of industry best practices.

Personal & Team Responsibilities

• Key Responsibilities

• Promote JAP culture and brand.

• Support recruitment, training, and retention.

• Coach and develop team members.

Success Indicators

• High employee engagement.

• Strong team performance.

• Positive feedback on leadership and coaching.

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.

Education

• Minimum bachelor’s degree from a leading university

• Preferred concentration in law, finance, accounting, or economics

Experience

• Significant, demonstrable experience dealing with regulatory authorities in the UAE and the wider MENA region

• At least 10 years of overall industry experience

• 8+ years of direct compliance experience within the financial services industry and exposure to VARA and other crypto regulators

• Direct experience creating and implementing regulatory compliance programs within a successful financial services organization

• Additional Requirements: CAMS, CISI, or ICA certifications are highly desired

• Professional Integrity & Accountability: Maintains confidentiality, demonstrates reliability, follows instructions with discipline, and upholds ethical and professional standards across all responsibilities