Head of Compliance
Reports To Chief Executive Officer (CEO) / Board Risk & Compliance Committee
Location :Saudi Arabia
Role Purpose
The Head of Compliance is responsible for establishing, implementing, and maintaining an effective compliance framework to ensure full adherence to Saudi Central Bank (SAMA) regulations, applicable laws, regulatory guidelines, and internal policies. The role acts as the primary liaison with SAMA and ensures the company operates in a compliant, ethical, and risk-aware manner.
Key Responsibilities
Regulatory Compliance & Governance
Develop, implement, and maintain the company’s Compliance Framework in line with SAMA regulations and circulars. Ensure compliance with all applicable laws and regulations including:SAMA Rules & Regulatory Frameworks AML/CTF Law & Implementing Regulations Cybersecurity Framework (SAMA CSF) Data Protection & Privacy Regulations Monitor regulatory developments and assess their impact on the business. Ensure timely implementation of new or amended regulatory requirements.
Regulatory Liaison & Reporting
Act as the primary point of contact with SAMA and other regulatory authorities. Manage regulatory submissions, reporting, notifications, and correspondence. Coordinate and support regulatory inspections, audits, and onsite/offsite reviews. Ensure prompt remediation of regulatory findings and observations.
Policies, Procedures & Controls Draft, review, and maintain compliance policies and procedures including:Compliance Policy AML/CTF Policy Sanctions & PEP Screening Customer Due Diligence (CDD/KYC) Ensure policies are embedded across business operations and products. Establish compliance controls and conduct regular testing and monitoring.
Advisory & Business Support
Provide compliance advisory support to business, product, technology, and operations teams. Review new products, services, partnerships, and business initiatives from a regulatory perspective. Ensure compliance is integrated into product design and customer journeys (compliance-by-design).
AML / CTF Oversight
Oversee AML/CTF compliance framework and ensure alignment with Saudi AML laws and SAMA requirements. Supervise transaction monitoring, suspicious activity reporting (SARs), and sanctions screening. Liaise with the MLRO (if separate) or act as MLRO where applicable.
Risk Assessment & Monitoring
Conduct compliance risk assessments and annual compliance plans. Identify, assess, and mitigate compliance risks. Track and report compliance issues, breaches, and incidents to senior management and the Board.
Training & Awareness Design and deliver compliance training programs for staff and management. Promote a strong compliance culture across the organization. Ensure staff awareness of regulatory obligations and ethical standards.
Reporting to Senior Management & Board
Prepare regular compliance reports for senior management and the Board. Escalate significant compliance risks, breaches, or regulatory concerns. Provide strategic compliance insights to support decision-making.
Key Requirements
Education
Bachelor’s degree in Law, Finance, Business Administration, Risk Management, or a related field. Professional certifications preferred:CAMS, ICA, CRCM, or similar compliance qualifications.
Experience
8–12+ years of compliance experience within:Fin Tech, Banking, Payments, or Financial Services. Strong experience working with or under SAMA regulation (mandatory). Proven track record of managing regulatory engagements and inspections. Experience in AML/CTF, financial crime, and regulatory compliance.
Skills & Competencies
Deep understanding of SAMA regulatory frameworks and Saudi financial regulations. Strong regulatory interpretation and advisory skills. Excellent stakeholder management and communication skills. High integrity, independence, and professional judgment. Ability to work in fast-paced, high-growth Fin Tech environments. Arabic and English proficiency preferred.