Compliance Manager

Location: Lebanon and Cyprus
Employment Type: Full-Time

About the Role

As part of a dynamic and fast-growing international group operating in financial services, fintech, cryptocurrency, and digital payments, we are seeking an experienced and proactive Compliance and Risk Manager. The position will be based between Lebanon and Cyprus, supporting the holding company and its affiliates.

The successful candidate will oversee compliance within the organization, ensuring that financial and operational procedures, as well as employee conduct, comply with all applicable laws, regulations, and contractual agreements, while also supporting the business and its operational areas.

Key Responsibilities

Regulatory Compliance & Risk Oversight

• Determine the risk level of customers during onboarding and throughout their lifecycle.
• Implement and update the company's AML/CTF compliance policies, ensuring adherence to local and international regulatory frameworks.
• Monitor and follow updates to AML laws, FATF recommendations, and applicable regulations (EU, MENA, and global).
• Ensure day-to-day compliance with KYC/KYB protocols, client risk scoring, and transaction monitoring.
• Interact with regulators and compliance authorities and act as the primary contact for compliance inquiries.

Policy, Strategy & Training

• Develop the annual compliance work plan tailored to the unique characteristics of the organization.
• Provide strategic compliance direction to senior management and advise on compliance risks and best practices.
• Regularly revise compliance plans and internal controls in response to regulatory or business environment changes.
• Train and raise awareness among staff about financial crime prevention, AML, and ethical business practices.

Investigation, Reporting & Auditing

• Review and investigate potential suspicious transactions, escalating where appropriate to regulatory bodies.
• Prepare and present clear, concise, and accurate compliance reports for senior leadership and the Board of Directors.
• Coordinate and support internal and external audits regarding regulatory and legal obligations.
• Ensure adequate recordkeeping and archiving of all relevant legal and compliance documentation.

Process & Vendor Management

• Lead the onboarding and due diligence of vendors, service providers, and third parties.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams (Product, Operations, Finance, Legal, Marketing) to ensure a compliance-first culture.
• Implement technology solutions to improve digital compliance workflows and risk mitigation.

Qualifications & Experience

• Bachelor's degree in Law, Finance, Business Administration, or a related field. Master's degree is a plus.
• Minimum of 5-8 years of experience in a similar compliance and risk management position within the financial services, fintech, or crypto industry.
• Strong understanding of corporate structures, cross-border regulations, and high-risk jurisdictions including Estonia, Lithuania, and El Salvador.
• Proven experience with:
  • KYC/KYB frameworks
  • Transaction monitoring
  • Suspicious activity reporting
  • Risk assessments and remediation
• Industry-recognized certifications are required:
  • CAMS – Certified Anti-Money Laundering Specialist
  • CBP – Certified Bitcoin Professional
  • CFE – Certified Fraud Examiner

Key Competencies & Skills

• Excellent knowledge of AML/CTF regulations, FATF standards, EU Directives, and relevant national laws.
• Ability to multi-task, prioritize effectively, and manage projects across jurisdictions and business units.
• Advanced analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Strong verbal and written communication for regulatory reporting and board-level presentations.
• High attention to detail, proactive mindset, and ability to work independently.
• Comfortable with digital platforms and compliance management systems.
• Fluent in English and Arabic; French is a strong advantage