Manager – Licensing and Supervision

Position Overview

Join a leading semi-government regulatory entity at the forefront of digital asset regulation in one of the world’s most progressive fintech jurisdictions. We are seeking an experienced Manager for Licensing and Supervision to lead regulatory oversight activities for Virtual Asset Service Providers within Dubai’s dynamic financial ecosystem.

Location: Dubai, UAE
Entity Type: Semi-Government Regulatory Authority
Experience Level: Senior Management
Department: Licensing and Supervision

About the Role

This is a unique opportunity to shape the future of virtual asset regulation while working with a prestigious semi-government entity that combines regulatory authority with innovative approach. As Manager – Licensing and Supervision, you will be at the center of Dubai’s digital transformation, ensuring regulatory compliance while fostering innovation in the virtual asset ecosystem.

Key Impact Areas

• Virtual Asset Service Provider licensing and supervision
• Regulatory framework development and implementation
• Risk assessment and management across digital asset operations
• Team leadership and strategic planning
• Industry engagement and stakeholder management

Core Responsibilities

Licensing & Regulatory Management

Application Processing & Assessment

• Oversee comprehensive licensing processes for Virtual Asset Service Providers
• Conduct thorough due diligence and risk assessments on license applications
• Evaluate complex ownership structures, governance frameworks, and compliance systems
• Lead fitness and propriety assessments for senior management and responsible individuals
• Manage license issuance, renewals, amendments, and regulatory modifications

Risk & Compliance Oversight

• Execute sophisticated risk assessments covering financial soundness, operational resilience, and regulatory compliance
• Assess critical risk areas including market risk, liquidity risk, cybersecurity, AML-CFT frameworks, and emerging technology risks
• Monitor compliance with capital requirements, client asset protection, and prudential standards
• Evaluate technology governance, information security protocols, and data protection measures

Supervisory Excellence

Operational Supervision

• Develop and implement risk-based supervisory strategies and inspection programs
• Serve as primary regulatory contact for VASP compliance officers and senior management
• Monitor and assess comprehensive regulatory reporting including cyber breach notifications, suspicious transaction reports, and market conduct compliance
• Conduct technical reviews, deep-dive assessments, and regulatory investigations
• Oversee proof of reserves, financial reporting, and client asset verification processes

Regulatory Enforcement Support

• Investigate potential regulatory breaches and provide enforcement recommendations
• Coordinate with legal and enforcement teams on compliance matters
• Conduct annual reviews and thematic assessments of supervised entities
• Prepare detailed regulatory reports and maintain comprehensive oversight records

Leadership & Team Development

Team Management

• Lead and develop a specialized team of licensing and supervision professionals
• Provide mentorship, training, and quality assurance across all team outputs
• Manage resource allocation, capacity planning, and performance optimization
• Foster professional development in emerging regulatory technologies and frameworks

Stakeholder Engagement

• Facilitate regular meetings with VASPs and manage all regulatory communications
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams including enforcement, legal, finance, and digital assurance
• Ensure timely fee collection and proper approval processes for marketing materials
• Build strong relationships with industry participants and regulatory counterparts

Strategic Development

Framework Enhancement

• Contribute to the continuous improvement of licensing and supervision frameworks
• Develop policies, procedures, templates, and planning documents
• Stay current with global virtual asset industry developments and regulatory trends
• Participate in regulatory policy development and international best practice adoption

Ideal Candidate Profile

Essential Qualifications

• Advanced degree in Finance, Law, Economics, or related field
• Extensive experience in financial services regulation, compliance, or risk management
• Deep understanding of virtual assets, blockchain technology, and digital finance
• Proven track record in regulatory supervision, licensing, or enforcement
• Experience managing teams and complex regulatory processes

Technical Expertise

• Comprehensive knowledge of AML-CFT, KYC-CDD, and financial crime prevention
• Understanding of market conduct, client asset protection, and prudential regulation
• Familiarity with cybersecurity frameworks, data protection, and technology governance
• Experience with regulatory reporting systems and compliance monitoring
• Knowledge of international regulatory standards and best practices

Leadership Qualities

• Exceptional analytical and decision-making capabilities
• Strong communication skills with ability to engage diverse stakeholders
• Strategic thinking with attention to regulatory detail
• Ability to balance innovation with regulatory prudence
• Cultural sensitivity and international mindset

What We Offer

Professional Growth

• Opportunity to shape regulatory frameworks within a prestigious semi-government entity
• Exposure to cutting-edge fintech and blockchain innovations in Dubai’s financial ecosystem
• International recognition and career advancement opportunities within regulatory leadership
• Continuous learning in emerging regulatory technologies and government policy development

Work Environment

• Dynamic, multicultural team environment
• Access to industry-leading regulatory resources and systems
• Collaboration with global regulatory bodies and industry leaders
• Flexible working arrangements and professional development support

Impact & Recognition

• Direct contribution to Dubai’s position as a global fintech hub
• Recognition as a thought leader in virtual asset regulation
• Opportunity to influence international regulatory standards
• Platform for speaking engagements and industry participation

Application Process

We seek candidates who combine deep regulatory expertise with innovative thinking and strong leadership capabilities. Please submit a comprehensive application including:

• Detailed CV highlighting relevant regulatory and fintech experience
• Cover letter demonstrating understanding of virtual asset regulation
• Examples of regulatory frameworks, policies, or initiatives you have developed
• References from regulatory bodies, financial institutions, or industry organizations

This role offers exceptional opportunity for professional growth in one of the world’s most forward-thinking regulatory environments.

We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive team that reflects the global nature of the virtual asset industry.