Job Description

Role

The Compliance Officer (CO) / Money Laundering Reporting Officer (MLRO) at

Cicada Group

is responsible for ensuring the Group's adherence to all

VARA

regulatory obligations, with a strong focus on Anti-Money Laundering (AML), Counter-Terrorism Financing (CTF), and the broader compliance framework under VARA's Virtual Asset regime.

This dual-role officer plays a pivotal role in establishing and maintaining a culture of compliance, managing internal controls, and serving as the primary liaison with VARA on all compliance and AML/CTF matters across Cicada Group's operations.

Key Responsibilities

Compliance Duties

Develop, maintain, and oversee Cicada Group's compliance framework in line with VARA regulations and Virtual Asset permissions. Ensure all internal policies, procedures, and controls remain current, effective, and consistent with regulatory expectations. Conduct internal compliance monitoring, gap assessments, and periodic reviews. Prepare and submit all regulatory filings, notifications, and reports to VARA within prescribed timelines. Act as the Group's key contact point for VARA during supervisory engagements, audits, and inspections. Advise senior management and the Board on regulatory developments, licensing obligations, and conduct of business rules. Deliver compliance training across the Group to ensure awareness and adherence to rules and standards.

MLRO Duties

Serve as Cicada Group's registered MLRO and main contact with VARA on AML/CTF matters. Maintain and implement the Group's AML/CTF Policy, Risk Assessment, and Client Due Diligence (CDD) framework. Oversee robust KYC, CDD, and Enhanced Due Diligence (EDD) processes for client onboarding and monitoring. Supervise transaction monitoring, Travel Rule compliance, and review alerts to identify and report suspicious activities via SARs to the UAE FIU and VARA. Maintain accurate records of all AML/CTF-related investigations, decisions, and communications. Conduct periodic AML/CTF risk assessments and enhance controls to address emerging risks. Provide AML/CTF training and updates to relevant staff, covering typologies and red flag indicators.
Qualifications and Experience

Bachelor's degree in Law, Finance, Business, or a related field (advanced degrees preferred). Minimum 5 years of experience in compliance and/or AML roles within financial services, ideally including digital assets or fintech. Strong knowledge of VARA regulations, UAE Federal AML/CTF requirements, and their application to Virtual Asset businesses. Demonstrated experience liaising with regulators and managing inspections or audits. Hands-on experience with AML systems, transaction monitoring, and regulatory reporting tools. Professional certifications such as CAMS, ICA, or equivalent are strongly preferred.
Job Type: Full-time