Head of Compliance & Risk, UAE

Building the Future of Crypto

Our Krakenites are a world-class team with crypto conviction, united by our desire to discover and unlock the potential of crypto and blockchain technology.

What makes us different?

Kraken is a mission-focused company rooted in crypto values. As a Krakenite, you’ll join us on our mission to accelerate the global adoption of crypto, so that everyone can achieve financial freedom and inclusion. For over a decade, Kraken’s focus on our mission and crypto ethos has attracted many of the most talented crypto experts in the world.

Before you apply, please read the Kraken Culture page to learn more about our internal culture, values, and mission. We also expect candidates to familiarize themselves with the Kraken app. Learn how to create a Kraken account here.

As a fully remote company, we have Krakenites in 70+ countries who speak over 50 languages. Krakenites are industry pioneers who develop premium crypto products for experienced traders, institutions, and newcomers to the space. Kraken is committed to industry-leading security, crypto education, and world-class client support through our products like Kraken Pro, Desktop, Wallet, and Kraken Futures.

Become a Krakenite and build the future of crypto!

Proof of work

The team

We are seeking a seasoned Head of Compliance and Risk to lead the design, implementation, and oversight of our regulatory compliance and enterprise risk frameworks in accordance with VARA guidelines. This leadership role ensures that Kraken operates with integrity, complies with all applicable local and international laws, and proactively manages risks in a dynamic crypto environment. This is a senior-level role with direct influence on the company's regulatory and operational resilience.

The opportunity

Compliance Oversight

• Act as the Principal Compliance and Risk Officer
• Manage and assist the Money Laundering Reporting Officer
• Develop, maintain, and continuously improve the Compliance Management System aligned with VARA regulations and global best practices (FATF, AMLD5, etc.)
• Oversee regulatory reporting and ensure timely and accurate filings to VARA and other relevant authorities
• Serve as the point of contact for all regulatory examinations and audits
  
  

Risk Management

• Establish and maintain a comprehensive Enterprise Risk Management (ERM) framework, identifying and mitigating operational, financial, and technological risks
• Lead the creation and execution of Business Continuity Plans and Incident Response strategies
• Collaborate with internal stakeholders to assess and manage emerging risks associated with crypto products and services
  
  

Strategic Leadership

• Engage with global regulators, industry bodies, and advisory panels to maintain an informed regulatory posture
• Provide input into strategic decisions including new product launches and cross-border expansions
  
  

Skills You Should HODL

• Bachelor's or Master's degree
• 5+ years of experience serving as a Compliance Officer, including at least 1 year in crypto, fintech, or virtual asset environments
• Proven leadership experience in a regulated firm, ideally licensed under VARA or equivalent regimes (FCA, MAS, FINMA, etc.)
• In-depth knowledge of AML, CFT, sanctions compliance, and data privacy
• Fluent proficiency in English
  
  

Nice to haves

• Fluent proficiency in Arabic
• CAMS, CRCM, ICA certifications, or equivalent
  
  

This job is accepting ongoing applications and there is no application deadline.

Please note, applicants are permitted to redact or remove information on their resume that identifies age, date of birth, or dates of attendance at or graduation from an educational institution.

We consider qualified applicants with criminal histories for employment on our team, assessing candidates in a manner consistent with the requirements of the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance.

Kraken is powered by people from around the world and we celebrate all Krakenites for their diverse talents, backgrounds, contributions and unique perspectives. We hire strictly based on merit, meaning we seek out the candidates with the right abilities, knowledge, and skills considered the most suitable for the job. We encourage you to apply for roles where you don't fully meet the listed requirements, especially if you're passionate or knowledgable about crypto!

As an equal opportunity employer, we don’t tolerate discrimination or harassment of any kind. Whether that’s based on race, ethnicity, age, gender identity, citizenship, religion, sexual orientation, disability, pregnancy, veteran status or any other protected characteristic as outlined by federal, state or local laws.

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