Director of AML/CFT and Fraud

The Director of AML/CFT and Fraud will be a critical leader within ZainCash, responsible for overseeing and enhancing all aspects of our Anti-Money Laundering (AML), Counter-Financing of Terrorism (CFT), and Fraud prevention programs. This role requires a strategic thinker with deep expertise in financial crime compliance, a strong operational background, and proven leadership abilities. You will be instrumental in safeguarding ZainCash against financial crime risks, ensuring regulatory adherence, and building a robust, future-proof compliance framework in a dynamic regulatory landscape.

• Develop, implement, and maintain comprehensive policies, procedures, and internal controls, aligned with local (Central Bank of Iraq, Iraqi AML Office) and international best practices (FATF recommendations).
• Lead financial crime detection, investigation, and reporting across all ZainCash products and services.
• Manage, mentor, and lead a high-performing team responsible for transaction monitoring, investigations, and other financial crime prevention activities.
• Build and assemble teams based on required skill sets and experience.
• Oversee and optimize transaction monitoring processes for AML/CFT and Fraud, ensuring effective rule sets, alert management, and timely disposition.
• Lead and execute thorough investigations into complex and suspicious financial activities, documenting findings meticulously and ensuring appropriate actions are taken.
• Ensure timely and accurate submission of Suspicious Activity Reports (SARs) or equivalent reports to relevant authorities in full compliance with regulatory requirements.
• Manage and optimize screening processes, including sanctions, politically exposed persons (PEPs), and adverse media screening, ensuring optimal effectiveness against relevant lists and adherence to reporting procedures.
• Ensure the integrity and effectiveness of Customer Due Diligence (CDD) and Know Your Customer (KYC) processes, including the implementation of robust Enhanced Due Diligence (EDD) for high-risk customers and transactions.
• Collaborate closely with internal stakeholders across Legal, Product, Technology, and Operations to embed  requirements into product development and operational processes.
• Prepare and present regular reports on AML/CFT and Fraud performance, risks, and compliance status to senior management and relevant committees.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Finance, Law, Business Administration, Economics, or a related field.
• Master's degree or professional certifications such as Certified Anti-Money Laundering Specialist (CAMS), Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE), or equivalent are highly preferred.
• Substantial experience in Anti-Money Laundering (AML), Counter-Financing of Terrorism (CFT), or Fraud prevention within the financial services industry.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills in both English and Arabic are essential.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities, with meticulous attention to detail.