Description:
The role would be to provide direct support to the Middle Eastern offices of the Firm, including the fellow Financial Risk and Compliance Analyst in Dubai, Money Laundering Reporting Officers (MLRO) and Deputy MLROs in Dubai and Doha. You would be responsible for carrying out client due diligence (CDD) procedures in relation to AML (anti-money laundering), CTF (counter-terrorist financing), KYC (know your customer requirements) and sanction checks and related compliance issues. The ideal candidate would have experience liaising with regulators such as Qatari Financial Centre Regulator, government authorities, and different regulations across Doha and Dubai.
Key Relationships:
- Fellow Financial Risk and Compliance Analyst in Dubai;
- MLRO/Deputy MLRO - Dubai;
- MRLO/Deputy MLRO - Doha;
- Regional Director of Administration;
- Dubai & Doha Lawyers and Staff;
- MLRO and Assistant GC - London;
- London AML team;
- New business intake team.
Key Responsibilities:
- AML/CTF: Understand all relevant internal and external rules, regulations and procedures, guidance and best practice, including both Dubai and Doha laws/regulations.
- Ensure AML record keeping and administration tasks are performed to a high standard and with detailed care and attention.
- Perform new business intake tasks in the Dubai/Doha offices including carrying out CDD and AML database checks using various databases and screening tools.
- Undertake research on new and existing (including high risk) clients and matters using research tools including analysis of constitutional documents, organisational structure charts and advising whether additional CDD is required.
- Undertake and draft detailed risk assessments for lawyers analysing relevant client and matter risks including identifying high risk factors, CDD/EDD steps undertaken, adverse media screening checks, source of wealth and funds analysis and ancillary information.
- Assist with transactional activities/investigations and liaise with Dubai/Doha accounts and billing teams.
- Liaise with lawyers and other colleagues globally in relation to Dubai/Doha AML/KYC requirements and client on-boarding.
- Undertake monitoring of the Firm’s clients in compliance with ongoing monitoring obligations and monitor risk assessment processes.
- Assist in the preparation for internal and external audits of the Firm’s AML/KYC and related compliance procedures.
- Assist in financial and regulatory periodic reporting to Dubai and Doha based regulators and authorities.
- Assist in the ongoing maintenance of high risk and PEP registers.
- Assist with Risk and Compliance training for all new joiners, specific training for fee earners and secretaries, annual AML/KYC training for the Firm’s staff.
- Assisting in advising billing, credit and accounts team and lawyers on third party payments and additional billing/funds queries.
- Analyse/investigate internal reports of potential suspicious activity and advise management, submit suspicious activity reports.
- Perform other duties and responsibilities as directed.
Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree (preferably in Law, Business or other related degree)
- Certified Anti Money Laundering qualification desirable (ACAMS/ICA etc.)
Key Requirements:
- Excellent command of written and spoken Arabic and English.
- Minimum of two year’s risk and compliance or relevant experience at an international law firm.
- Experience liaising with secretaries and lawyers in relation to compliance issues arising on matters.
- Good knowledge of Dubai and Doha specific AML, CTF and sanction laws and regulations and other compliance related legislation essential.
- Knowledge of the workings of the relevant Dubai and Doha regulators and authorities.
- Attention to detail; a self-starter with ability to prioritise assignments, use initiative, make decisions, take responsibility, and communicate with good interpersonal skills to personnel at all levels.
- Strong writing, analytical and critical thinking skills.
- Commercial, organised and pragmatic approach.
- Proficient computer skills, including, but not limited to, knowledge of relevant databases.
- Professional attitude with an ability to meet tight deadlines and remain calm under pressure.
- Strong written and oral communication skills.
- Ability to work extended hours on a short-term and limited basis to accommodate short-term activity spikes and urgent requests.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
- Computer literate and able to utilize spreadsheet technology to achieve the key task areas.