Internal Audit Lead - Financial Crime

About the role

The Internal Audit Lead – Financial Crime & Compliance will head audits across AML, CTF, sanctions, fraud prevention and customer due diligence. Reporting to senior management, the role ensures the effectiveness of financial crime prevention frameworks and regulatory compliance programs in line with CBUAE expectations.

Key responsibilities

• Lead end‑to‑end audits of financial crime and compliance processes using a risk‑based approach.
• Evaluate design and operating effectiveness of AML, CTF, sanctions and CDD/KYC/KYB frameworks against regulations and best practices.
• Assess compliance‑owned processes such as regulatory horizon scanning, change management, monitoring programs and policy governance.
• Identify control gaps, thematic risks and provide actionable recommendations.
• Conduct forensic reviews and investigations into suspected financial crime or control breaches.
• Apply advanced data analytics to detect anomalies, support continuous monitoring and improve MI quality.
• Report audit findings to senior management and regulators, ensuring clear communication of risks and remediation plans.

Required profile

• Extensive experience in financial crime compliance, AML/CTF regulations and audit methodologies.
• Strong investigative mindset with proven data‑analytics capabilities.
• Ability to work independently, manage full audit cycles and engage with cross‑functional stakeholders.
• Up‑to‑date knowledge of regulatory developments and emerging financial crime risks.

Required skills

• Advanced data‑analytics techniques for audit and monitoring.
• In‑depth understanding of CBUAE regulations, international AML standards and compliance frameworks.