The Head of Compliance is responsible for developing, implementing, and overseeing the company’s compliance framework in accordance with the Capital Markets Authority (CMA) rules, Boursa Kuwait regulations, and other applicable laws. This role ensures that the company operates with strong internal controls, meets regulatory requirements, mitigates compliance risks, and fosters a culture of integrity and ethical business conduct.

Key Responsibilities

Regulatory Compliance & Oversight

• Develop, implement, and enhance the company’s compliance program in alignment with CMA laws, regulatory frameworks, and internal governance standards.
• Ensure full compliance with all CMA books, circulars, resolutions, and updates, including timely internal communication and implementation.
• Monitor regulatory changes and ensure timely adaptation of company policies and procedures.
• Prepare and submit mandatory periodic reports to CMA and other authorities as required.
• Maintain transparent and professional communication with regulatory authorities, external auditors, and inspection teams.

Compliance Risk Management

• Conduct periodic compliance reviews, internal audits, and assessments to identify, assess, and mitigate risks.
• Investigate potential compliance breaches, misconduct, and operational risks, and recommend preventive and corrective actions.
• Coordinate with Legal, Internal Audit, and other relevant departments to resolve compliance findings and ensure remediation.

Policies, Controls & Internal Governance

• Develop, maintain, and update compliance policies, procedures, and manuals to reflect regulatory requirements and industry best practices.
• Ensure strong internal controls are in place to prevent regulatory violations, unethical behavior, or conflicts of interest.
• Review internal policies, operational documents, and contracts from a compliance perspective before approval or execution.
• Work closely with internal departments (Finance, Investments, Operations, HR, etc.) to ensure adherence to compliance and reporting requirements.

AML / CFT Responsibilities

• Serve as the company’s AML Compliance Officer responsible for overseeing Anti–Money Laundering and Counter-Terrorist Financing (AML/CTF) programs.
• Oversee KYC processes, customer onboarding, and due diligence for new and existing clients.
• Ensure transactions, investments, and client interactions comply with AML regulations and CMA requirements.
• Prepare and file Suspicious Transaction Reports (STRs) and maintain proper AML documentation.
• Conduct periodic AML risk assessments and ensure appropriate controls are in place.
• Review and approve high-risk accounts and Politically Exposed Person (PEP) relationships.

Training & Awareness

• Conduct regular compliance and AML training for employees across all departments.
• Ensure staff understand regulatory obligations, code of conduct expectations, and company ethical standards.
• Communicate new regulations, CMA circulars, and compliance requirements in a timely manner.

Reporting & Governance

• Report directly to senior management and the Board Audit & Risk Committee on compliance issues, risks, breaches, and recommended actions.
• Provide periodic compliance dashboards, insights, progress updates, and management reports.

Confidentiality & Integrity

• Maintain strict confidentiality when handling sensitive regulatory, business, or client information.
• Promote a strong ethical culture and support the business in operating responsibly and transparently.

Skills

• Bachelor’s degree in Law, Finance, Business Administration, or related field (Master’s preferred).
• Professional certifications in compliance or AML (e.g., ICA, CAMS, CCO) are an advantage.
• Extensive experience in compliance roles within the capital markets, financial services, brokerage, or investment sectors.
• Strong knowledge of CMA and Boursa Kuwait regulatory frameworks.
• Excellent communication, investigative, analytical, and leadership skills.