OVI (recruiting for a prominent government organization in Abu Dhabi)
O
Organising Institution / Firm
OVI (recruiting for a prominent government organization in Abu Dhabi)
Not Specified by Organiser
Not Specified
Bachelor's or master's degree in law, finance, business, or a related field; 7-10 years of experience in AML/CFT, sanctions, financial crime, or regulatory compliance; professional certifications such as ACAMS, ICA Diplomas, Sanctions Specialist, CFE, or CFA are desirable; experience in investment, banking, or sovereign-wealth-fund environments is ideal.
Job
In the post-financial-crisis era, compliance has evolved from a back-office necessity to a strategic pillar of every well-governed institution. Nowhere is that transformation more visible than in the United Arab Emirates, particularly in Abu Dhabi, where sovereign wealth funds, global banks, and government-linked entities operate under the scrutiny of world-class regulators such as the Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) and the Central Bank of the UAE. For legal and financial professionals seeking a role that blends regulatory depth with high-level institutional influence, the Compliance Specialist – Contract (12 Months) opportunity posted by OVI on behalf of a prominent government organisation is a compelling gateway.
We are searching on behalf of our client for this role. This position is not with OVI. Join our client, a prominent government organization based in Abu Dhabi, as a Compliance Specialist on a 12-month secondment.
This is not an ordinary in-house compliance job. It’s a contract role that places the successful candidate directly inside a government environment, where policy, regulation, and national economic priorities intersect. For compliance professionals with 7–10 years of experience in AML/CFT, sanctions, and financial crime, this is a rare opportunity to contribute to the enforcement architecture of one of the region’s most dynamic financial centres.
The job description makes it clear that the Compliance Specialist will not simply be reviewing files or ticking boxes. The role is designed around three core pillars:
This is a role for a professional who understands that compliance is a business enabler, not a business obstacle. The reference to designing "frameworks, governance structures, and monitoring programmes" signals that the hiring manager expects strategic thinking, not just operational execution. In a government setting, these frameworks often become templates for broader public-sector adoption, giving the role an outsized impact.
OVI has outlined a clear set of expectations. The ideal candidate will have:
The emphasis on sovereign wealth funds is a telltale sign that this government client is likely connected to the emirate’s investment ecosystem. Candidates with exposure to managing compliance risks in large asset pools or cross-border transactions will find themselves well positioned. The contract length – 12 months – also suggests a project-driven or secondment-based need, so the ability to hit the ground running is critical.
"You are proactive, detail-oriented, and capable of designing robust compliance frameworks. Your expertise will contribute significantly to the client's compliance initiatives."
Because the role is a contract, some candidates may hesitate, fearing a lack of stability. But in Abu Dhabi, well-executed contract positions at government entities often lead to extensions, permanent offers, or valuable introductions to other elite employers. The prestige of having worked inside a government compliance function can unlock doors that would otherwise remain closed.
Let’s be honest: contract roles are often viewed as stopgap gigs. This one is different. Here’s why:
Moreover, the compliance sector in the UAE is booming. The introduction of new economic substance regulations, the expansion of ADGM, and the UAE’s efforts to combat money laundering through its Financial Action Task Force (FATF) action plan have created sustained demand for specialists who understand AML/CFT and sanctions. By taking a 12-month contract, you position yourself at the centre of that demand rather than observing it from the sidelines.
According to the job posting, this position is not with OVI. OVI is a recruitment agency acting on behalf of a prominent government organization in Abu Dhabi. You will be employed for a 12-month contract with the client, and OVI will manage the recruitment process.
The posting requires a bachelor’s or master’s degree in law, finance, business, or a related field, plus 7–10 years of experience in AML/CFT, sanctions, financial crime, or regulatory compliance. Certifications like ACAMS, ICA Diplomas, CFE, or CFA are preferred but not mandatory. Candidates with investment, banking, or sovereign-wealth-fund experience are considered ideal.
The posting describes a 12-month secondment. Government entities in Abu Dhabi often extend contracts based on project needs and performance. While there is no guarantee, successful delivery on the compliance framework projects could lead to extension or permanent employment opportunities.
Focus on your experience in designing compliance frameworks, your knowledge of UAE regulations, and any previous work in government or sovereign wealth fund environments. Quantify your achievements, use relevant keywords, and ensure your CV is formatted for AI screening. A concise cover letter that addresses the 12-month secondment and your ability to deliver quickly can also give you an edge.
#J-18808-LjbffrThis listing is sourced from a third-party job board. Applying will redirect you to the original posting.
FlexiRemote Solutions
Jointown Pharmaceutical MENA
Zenith Recruitment & Visa Services
Zenith Recruitment & Visa Services