Lead Compliance Operations Specialist
Job description
About the role
Bybit is seeking a Lead Compliance Operations Specialist to join its growing team in Abu Dhabi, UAE. This senior role oversees compliance operations across the region and ensures the organization consistently meets all regulatory obligations in the digital asset industry. The specialist will guide and mentor a team of compliance professionals while coordinating closely with legal, risk, and business units to maintain the highest standards. The position carries significant responsibility for developing compliance frameworks, shaping regulatory strategies, and upholding the highest standards of operational integrity across all business lines.
Key facts
What you'll do
Oversee day-to-day compliance operations for the Abu Dhabi office and all regional business activities across the Middle East
Develop and implement comprehensive compliance policies and procedures aligned with UAE regulatory frameworks and international standards
Monitor transactions and user account activities to identify potential regulatory violations, suspicious patterns, and emerging risks
Lead, mentor, and manage a team of compliance officers and provide guidance on complex regulatory cases
Coordinate with legal, risk management, and internal audit teams to assess and interpret regulatory changes proactively
Prepare detailed compliance reports for internal leadership and external regulatory authorities, ensuring accuracy and timeliness
Conduct regular audits of internal processes and controls to ensure strict adherence to established policies and procedures
Manage ongoing relationships with regulatory authorities and respond to official inquiries, examinations, and information requests promptly
Design and deliver compliance training programs to keep all staff informed of current regulatory requirements
Evaluate and continuously improve compliance workflows and procedures to increase operational efficiency and reduce risk exposure
Review vendor agreements, partnership contracts, and third-party relationships to ensure compliance with internal standards and regulations
Support the development of annual compliance strategies, long-term regulatory roadmaps, and business continuity planning initiatives
Liaise with external legal counsel and compliance consultants to ensure the organization receives expert guidance on complex matters
Track and document all regulatory changes, updates, and new enforcement actions to maintain current awareness of the compliance landscape
Requirements
Minimum of five years of progressive experience in compliance, regulatory affairs, or related operations within a regulated industry
Demonstrated leadership experience managing a team of compliance professionals or analysts in a corporate or financial setting
Strong understanding of UAE financial services regulations, digital asset compliance rules, and relevant enforcement frameworks
Bachelor's degree in law, finance, business administration, or a closely related academic discipline from an accredited institution
Proven ability to interpret and apply complex regulatory requirements in practical, real-world operational environments effectively
Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English with clarity, precision, and the ability to convey complex topics
Experience working directly with regulatory bodies or government enforcement agencies in a compliance or legal capacity
High attention to detail and strong analytical problem-solving abilities demonstrated consistently under tight deadlines and pressure
Familiarity with international compliance frameworks such as FATF recommendations, Basel committee standards, and cross-border regulatory guidance
Experience with regulatory examinations, enforcement actions, or government audits in a compliance or financial services context
Nice to have
Prior experience working in the cryptocurrency or digital asset industry is highly valued and strongly preferred for this role
Familiarity with international compliance standards such as FATF recommendations, global guidance documents, and cross-border regulatory frameworks
Knowledge of AML and KYC procedures specific to the Gulf Cooperation Council region and Middle East markets
Additional language skills, particularly Arabic or Mandarin, are considered a strong advantage and a valuable asset
Experience with compliance technology platforms, automated monitoring systems, and regulatory reporting tools is a beneficial addition
Skills & tools
Regulatory analysis and policy development for financial services and digital asset sectors
Team leadership and performance management of compliance professionals and junior staff members
Risk assessment and mitigation planning for operational compliance and internal controls
Compliance monitoring, reporting systems administration, and regulatory filing management
Document management, record-keeping practices, and evidence retention standards and procedures
Stakeholder communication, regulatory liaison capabilities, and external partnership coordination
Internal audit procedures, process improvement methodologies, and continuous compliance monitoring
Practical notes
The role is based in Abu Dhabi, UAE and requires regular on-site presence at the company office
This is a full-time position within the compliance department reporting directly to senior leadership and the general counsel
Candidates should be prepared to work with evolving regulatory landscapes, changing requirements, and new enforcement developments regularly
The hiring process may include multiple rounds of interviews, technical assessments, case study exercises, and thorough reference checks
Bybit offers a competitive benefits package, professional development opportunities, and a collaborative work environment for this role
Applicants should be authorized to work in the UAE or willing to obtain the necessary work sponsorship through the appropriate channels
About the company
Bybit Fintech Limited, known as Bybit, is a Dubai based centralized cryptocurrency exchange. The platform has faced regulatory warnings in several jurisdictions.