Head of Compliance & AML📣 Job Ad

About the Role

Saudi Finance is seeking a Head of Compliance & AML to join its team in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. This full-time position is critical for establishing, leading, and overseeing the company's entire compliance framework. The role ensures full adherence to SAMA regulations, Saudi laws, and international best practices, acting as a primary safeguard against regulatory breaches, financial crimes, and reputational risks.

Strategic Compliance Leadership

• Develop and implement the company's compliance strategy, securing approval from the Board and relevant Committees.
• Prepare the annual Compliance and AML department plan.
• Ensure compliance with SAMA regulatory requirements, Saudi Vision 2030 financial sector goals, and FATF standards.
• Serve as the primary liaison with SAMA, managing all regulatory communications, inspections, and submissions.
• Present quarterly compliance reports to the Board and Audit Committee, detailing regulatory breaches, fines, SAMA directives, AML/CFT effectiveness, risk exposure, and mitigation plans.
• Develop, implement, and enforce Compliance and AML policies, including AML, KYC, sanctions, data privacy, and consumer protection, in line with SAMA guidelines.
• Review all company policies and procedures to ensure compliance with applicable laws, regulations, bylaws, and internal governance requirements.

Risk Management and Operational Oversight

• Prepare the annual compliance budget, coordinate with relevant departments, and monitor its effective implementation.
• Ensure enterprise-wide implementation of compliance requirements through training, internal controls, and audits.
• Ensure all organizational units comply with Anti-Money Laundering (AML), Counter-Terrorism Financing (CFT), and Know Your Customer (KYC) requirements, and report any suspicious activities.
• Conduct company-wide compliance risk assessments covering areas such as lending, digital payments, and cybersecurity.
• Establish early warning systems to identify emerging compliance risks, including those related to crypto-assets and fintech partnerships.
• Lead responses to SAMA investigations, enforcement actions, and major compliance incidents.
• Review external audit reports and SAMA inspection findings, ensuring timely implementation of all required actions.

Team Leadership and Development

• Lead the Compliance department and promote a strong culture of compliance through awareness programs, accountability, and zero-tolerance policies.
• Coach and develop the Compliance team by setting annual KPIs, monitoring performance, and supporting continuous professional growth.

Required Experience

Candidates for this role must possess over 10 years of relevant experience in compliance and AML within the financial sector. A strong understanding of SAMA regulations, Saudi laws, FATF standards, and international best practices is essential for success in this position.

Work Environment

This is a full-time position based in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, offering a dynamic environment focused on maintaining robust regulatory compliance and combating financial crime.