Associate Director – Licensing and Supervision

Position Overview

Join a leading semi-government regulatory authority as Associate Director of Licensing and Supervision. Lead strategic oversight of Virtual Asset Service Provider regulation while managing high-performing teams in Dubai’s dynamic fintech landscape.

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

About the Role

Drive excellence in virtual asset regulation through strategic leadership, team management, and regulatory innovation. Shape the future of digital asset supervision while ensuring compliance with international standards and best practices.

Key Responsibilities

Team Leadership & Quality Management

• Lead case managers and officers in licensing assessments and firm supervision
• Conduct quality assurance over licensing reviews and team outputs
• Provide guidance, training, and mentorship on licensing and supervision processes
• Manage resource planning, capacity management, and performance optimization
• Facilitate regular stakeholder meetings and communications with regulated entities

Framework Development & Enhancement

• Develop and update policies, procedures, templates, and risk assessment methodologies
• Create comprehensive training materials for team onboarding and skill development
• Continuously refine due diligence processes and governance structures
• Ensure alignment with industry standards and regulatory requirements
• Contribute to organizational knowledge base on global virtual asset compliance

Licensing Operations

• Oversee licensing application processes for Virtual Asset Service Provider portfolios
• Direct enhanced due diligence activities and licensing decision-making processes
• Manage team assessments against regulatory licensing frameworks
• Conduct comprehensive 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 entity portfolios
• Lead on-site and off-site supervision activities to monitor compliance and identify risks
• Conduct in-depth reviews, assessments, investigations, and operational inspections
• Ensure timely fee settlement and oversee marketing compliance activities
• Prepare comprehensive annual and thematic review reports
• Lead regulatory breach investigations in collaboration with enforcement and legal teams

Requirements

Essential Qualifications

• 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 skills with ability to assess complex regulatory matters
• Excellent project management and organizational capabilities
• Outstanding communication and stakeholder management skills
• Ability to work with confidential information using sound discretion and judgment

Leadership Skills

• Demonstrated ability to lead, motivate, and develop high-performing teams
• Strategic thinking with practical implementation capabilities
• Strong decision-making skills in complex regulatory environments
• Experience in policy development and regulatory framework enhancement
• Collaborative approach with cross-functional teams and external stakeholders

What We Offer

Career Development

• Senior leadership role in 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 focus on results

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

Application Process

Submit comprehensive application including CV highlighting regulatory leadership experience, examples of team management and framework development success, and references from senior regulatory or financial services professionals.

Lead the future of virtual asset regulation while building a world-class supervisory function in one of the most innovative regulatory jurisdictions globally.