Chief Compliance Officer

Company: Confidential Company

Location: Riyadh · Saudi Arabia

Category: Financial Services

Job Description: **Chief Compliance Officer**

**Job Summary:**

The Chief Compliance Officer (CCO) will serve as a critical member of the executive leadership team, assuming responsibility for the design, implementation, and oversight of the organization’s comprehensive compliance program. The successful candidate will possess a thorough understanding of Saudi Arabian regulatory requirements, particularly as they pertain to the financial services and technology sectors. The CCO will ensure the company’s operations adhere to the highest ethical standards and are in full compliance with all applicable laws, regulations, and internal policies.

**Responsibilities:**

* Develop, implement, and maintain a comprehensive compliance program tailored to the specific risks and regulatory requirements inherent to a fintech company operating within the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
* Maintain current knowledge of all pertinent laws, regulations, and guidelines promulgated by the Saudi Central Bank (SAMA), the Capital Market Authority (CMA), the Ministry of Commerce, and other relevant regulatory entities.
* Advise the executive team and the board of directors on all matters pertaining to compliance and potential risk exposure.
* Formulate and implement compliance policies and procedures, ensuring effective communication and consistent application throughout the organization.
* Oversee the monitoring and testing of the compliance program, identifying and remediating any deficiencies or vulnerabilities.
* Conduct regular compliance risk assessments and develop appropriate mitigation strategies.
* Manage regulatory examinations and inquiries, serving as the primary liaison with regulatory authorities.
* Develop and deliver comprehensive compliance training programs for employees at all organizational levels.
* Establish and maintain effective internal controls to prevent and detect compliance violations.
* Oversee the handling of all compliance-related complaints and investigations.
* Ensure adherence to anti-money laundering (AML) and counter-terrorist financing (CTF) regulations, including the development and implementation of robust Know Your Customer (KYC) and Customer Due Diligence (CDD) procedures.
* Manage data privacy and security compliance in accordance with relevant Saudi regulations, including the Personal Data Protection Law (PDPL).
* Collaborate with other departments, including Legal, Risk, and Product Development, to ensure compliance is integrated into all facets of the business.
* Prepare and present periodic compliance reports to the executive team and the board of directors.

**Qualifications:**

* Bachelor’s degree in Law, Finance, Business Administration, or a related field. A Master’s degree or relevant professional certification (e.g., Certified Compliance Professional, ICA Diploma in Governance, Risk & Compliance) is highly preferred.
* A minimum of 10-15 years of progressively responsible experience in compliance roles within the financial services industry, with significant experience within Saudi Arabia.
* Demonstrated success in developing and implementing comprehensive compliance programs, preferably within a fintech environment or a regulated financial institution with a substantial digital presence.
* In-depth knowledge and understanding of the Saudi Arabian regulatory landscape governing financial services, including but not limited to SAMA regulations, CMA regulations (if applicable), AML/CTF laws, and data privacy regulations (PDPL).
* A strong understanding of the unique compliance challenges and risks associated with fintech products and services.
* Experience in managing relationships and interacting with Saudi regulatory authorities.

**Preferred Qualifications:**

* Experience with specific fintech product compliance (e.g., digital payments, lending platforms, investment platforms).
* Experience in establishing and managing compliance functions in a start-up or rapidly growing environment.
* Fluency in both Arabic and English is highly preferred.
* Established network within the Saudi Arabian financial and regulatory community.

**Compensation:**

A competitive compensation package, commensurate with experience and qualifications, will be offered, including a performance-based bonus structure.