Associate Director – Licensing and Supervision

Location: Dubai, UAE
Salary: AED 55,000 per month
Entity Type: Semi-Government Regulatory Authority

About the Organization

Join a leading semi-government regulatory authority at the forefront of Dubai’s fintech ecosystem. The organization is responsible for regulating Virtual Asset Service Providers (VASPs) and fostering innovation while ensuring adherence to international compliance standards.

About the Role

We are seeking an experienced Associate Director – Licensing and Supervision to lead strategic oversight of virtual asset regulation. This senior leadership role requires managing high-performing teams, enhancing regulatory frameworks, and shaping the future of digital asset supervision in a dynamic, fast-evolving market.

Key Responsibilities

Team Leadership & Quality Management

>> Lead case managers and officers in licensing assessments and firm supervision.

>> Conduct quality assurance reviews of licensing decisions and team outputs.

>> Provide guidance, mentorship, and training on licensing and supervision processes.

>> Manage resource planning, capacity allocation, and performance optimization.

>> Facilitate stakeholder meetings and communications with regulated entities.

Framework Development & Enhancement

>> Develop and update policies, procedures, templates, and risk assessment methodologies.

>> Create training materials for onboarding and professional development.

>> Refine due diligence processes and governance structures continuously.

>> Ensure alignment with international regulatory standards and best practices.

>> Contribute to the organization’s knowledge base on virtual asset compliance.

Licensing Operations

>> Oversee licensing applications for Virtual Asset Service Provider portfolios.

>> Direct enhanced due diligence and licensing decision-making processes.

>> Conduct risk assessments covering critical operational areas.

>> Coordinate license issuance, renewals, amendments, and regulatory modifications.

Supervisory Excellence

>> Develop and execute risk-based supervisory plans for regulated entities.

>> Lead on-site and off-site supervision to monitor compliance and identify risks.

>> Conduct in-depth reviews, investigations, and operational inspections.

>> Ensure timely fee settlement and marketing compliance adherence.

>> Prepare comprehensive annual and thematic review reports.

>> Lead regulatory breach investigations in collaboration with enforcement and legal teams.

Qualifications & Experience

Essential:

>> Advanced degree in Finance, Law, Business, or related field.

>> Minimum 8–10 years of experience in financial services regulation, compliance, or supervision.

>> Proven leadership experience managing regulatory teams and complex processes.

>> Deep understanding of virtual assets, blockchain technology, and digital finance.

>> Strong knowledge of regulatory frameworks, risk management, and compliance procedures.

Key Competencies:

>> Expertise in licensing processes, due diligence, and regulatory assessments.

>> Experience with supervisory planning, inspections, and enforcement activities.

>> Strong analytical, project management, and organizational skills.

>> Outstanding communication and stakeholder management abilities.

>> Ability to handle confidential information with discretion and judgment.

Leadership Skills:

>> Demonstrated ability to lead, motivate, and develop high-performing teams.

>> Strategic thinker with practical implementation capabilities.

>> Strong decision-making in complex regulatory environments.

>> Experience in policy development and regulatory framework enhancement.

>> Collaborative approach with cross-functional teams and external stakeholders.

Why This Opportunity?

Career Development

>> Senior leadership role in a cutting-edge regulatory environment.

>> Opportunity to shape virtual asset regulation frameworks.

>> International exposure and professional recognition.

>> Continuous learning in emerging regulatory technologies.

>> Clear career progression pathway within regulatory leadership.

Professional Environment

>> Dynamic, multicultural team with global perspective.

>> Access to advanced regulatory tools and systems.

>> Collaborative culture focused on innovation and excellence.

>> Flexible working arrangements with results-oriented focus.

Impact & Recognition

>> Direct contribution to Dubai’s position as a global fintech hub.

>> Influence on international regulatory standards and best practices.

>> Platform for thought leadership and industry engagement.

>> Competitive compensation package commensurate with experience.