Manager – KYC/EDD

Job Purpose: We are seeking a committed, detail-oriented, and experienced professional to join our bank as Senior Associate – Client Onboarding & Due Diligence. This individual will play a crucial role in safeguarding the bank’s integrity and regulatory standing by ensuring the effective execution of Know Your Customer (KYC) processes and risk-based due diligence (DD) reviews for our high net worth (HNW) and ultra-high net worth (UHNW) private banking clients.

The ideal candidate will have substantial experience in compliance and client onboarding within the private banking, wealth management, or financial services sectors—preferably within a regulated institution in the UAE or other financial hubs. The individual should be well-versed in AML/CFT regulations, client risk profiling, due diligence best practices, and regulatory compliance frameworks, and possess a strong understanding of private banking products, structures, and client types.

This role is essential in ensuring that new client relationships are onboarded in line with both internal policies and external regulatory expectations, while also contributing to a high-quality client experience and minimizing compliance risks. Key Accountabilities: Client Onboarding and KYC ReviewReview new client onboarding files to ensure compliance with internal KYC/AML standards and regulatory requirements. Assess and verify identity documentation, source of wealth, source of funds, and client background for HNW/UHNW individuals, family offices, and structures (e. g. , trusts, foundations, offshore entities).

Validate the completeness and accuracy of KYC forms, client declarations, beneficial ownership information, and relationship documentation. Work closely with the front-office to collect outstanding documentation or information required to complete the KYC profile. Client Risk Assessment & MappingPerform client risk scoring based on geographic exposure, client profile, product usage, and transactional behavior. Conduct detailed Enhanced Due Diligence (EDD) for high-risk clients and politically exposed persons (PEPs). Analyze adverse media, sanctions exposure, and screening hits to assess reputational and regulatory risk. Recommend approval or escalation of high-risk cases to the compliance management or senior leadership.

Regulatory & Policy AdherenceEnsure strict compliance with AML/CFT laws and regulations as issued by the UAE Central Bank, FATF guidelines, and applicable international standards. Stay current on regulatory changes related to client onboarding, financial crime prevention, and tax compliance (e. g. , FATCA/CRS). Maintain alignment with internal compliance frameworks, client onboarding policies, and risk appetite thresholds. Cross-Functional CollaborationLiaise with front-office RMs, legal, operations, and IT to ensure timely and accurate client onboarding. Provide guidance and training to business users on documentation requirements and KYC standards. Support periodic client KYC refresh cycles in collaboration with relationship management teams. Experience & Qualification:

Experience –Private Banking Expertise: Demonstrated understanding of the private banking client lifecycle, investment products, and complex structures such as SPVs, offshore trusts, and multi-jurisdictional accounts. Compliance and Regulatory Knowledge: Solid understanding of UAE regulatory requirements (CBUAE, DFSA/ADGM), international AML/CFT guidelines, FATCA/CRS obligations, and financial crime risk factors. Analytical Skills: Strong analytical skills to assess client information, identify inconsistencies, detect red flags, and formulate well-reasoned recommendations. Communication Skills: Excellent written and verbal communication skills to articulate compliance findings, escalate risks, and provide guidance to non-compliance stakeholders.

Qualification -Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Business Administration, Law, or a related discipline. (Master’s degree preferred. )Professional certification such as CAMS, ICA, or equivalent in compliance or AML is highly desirable. 5 to 8 years of relevant experience in a financial institution, preferably in a client onboarding, compliance, or AML/KYC function within private banking or wealth management. Proven track record of handling HNW/UHNW onboarding cases with a risk-based compliance approach.