VARA Pre-Licensing Compliance Officer

VARA Pre-Licensing Compliance Officer at ITSEC, Dubai

ITSEC is seeking an experienced Compliance Professional to join their team in Dubai as a VARA Pre-Licensing Compliance Officer. This role is crucial for assisting a Dubai virtual asset business in preparing for its VARA licensing by developing robust compliance documentation, identifying readiness gaps, and collaborating with internal teams to resolve them prior to launch.

Key Eligibility Criteria

• 5+ years of relevant compliance experience in financial services, virtual assets, fintech, or another regulated sector.
• Hands-on experience building compliance frameworks and preparing licensing documentation.
• Strong knowledge of AML/CFT, sanctions, customer due diligence, and risk-based controls.
• Excellent analytical and writing skills, with the confidence to challenge weak assumptions.
• CAMS certification is preferred.
• VARA or UAE virtual asset licensing experience is a strong advantage.

Responsibilities & Scope of Work

• Map proposed activities and operating model against applicable VARA requirements.
• Develop compliance policies, procedures, control registers, and supporting application materials.
• Work with legal, AML, risk, technology, cybersecurity, and operations teams to align documentation with the planned business.
• Design governance, monitoring, training, escalation, and recordkeeping processes.
• Review materials for accuracy, consistency, and supporting evidence.
• Maintain a clear action plan for closing pre-licensing gaps.

Note: This is a pre-licensing preparation role and does not include regulatory submissions, direct communication with VARA, or the formal accountability of an appointed Compliance Officer.

Stipend, Compensation & Mode

Not specified.

Application Procedure & Required Documents

Interested candidates should send their CV to the provided email address. Please ensure to include the job title in the subject line of your email.

Official Notification & Contact Information

Contact Email: talents@itsecnow.com

Subject Line for Application: “VARA Pre-Licensing Compliance Officer”