AML/CTF Sanctions Manager

Who Are We

HALA is a leading fintech player in the MENAP region that aims to redefine financial services and build the future bank of SMEs. HALA aims at empowering SMEs to start, run, and grow their businesses by providing them with cutting-edge financial and technological tools.

HALA currently holds multiple entities in UAE, Saudi Arabia and Egypt (including HALA Payments, HALA Cashier and HALA Logistics) and offers solutions that enable merchants to digitize their payments as well as manage their sales and operations.

Founded in 2017, HALA is currently duly licensed by the Saudi Arabian Central Bank as well as the Financials Services Regulatory Authority (FSRA) in Abu Dhabi Global Market.

Responsibilities:

• Own and maintain the AML/CTF sanctions compliance framework; act as deputy to the Head of AML/CTF.

• Tune, document, and keep sanctions screening systems audit-ready.

• Build and maintain automated monitoring systems for sanctions, PEP, and payment screening to detect and block prohibited activity in real time.

• Screen all customers, employees, suppliers, and third parties prior to onboarding and monitor them daily against SAMA and international sanctions lists (e.g., OFAC, UN, EU).

• Investigate alerts, determine true matches, escalate when necessary, and document defensible rationales.

• Prevent transactions involving any party (customer, supplier, or third party) if linked to any sanctions list.

• Conduct monthly reviews to identify current or potential merchants and individuals; update internal watchlists and block those associated with financial crimes, illicit donations, virtual assets, or sanctions-related risks.

• Handle internal sanctions-related escalations and requests; ensure timely investigation, documentation, and escalation when warranted.

• Run KYC/CDD (and EDD when required) on new and existing customers.

• Monitor local and global sanctions updates; promptly implement all necessary changes to policies, systems, and controls.

• Maintain policies, procedures, and controls aligned with all applicable regulatory (SAMA) requirements.

• Coordinate with business units to assess sanctions risks in new products, complex deals, and high-risk exposures.

• Provide regular AML/CTF sanctions compliance reports (weekly, monthly, quarterly, semi-annual, and annual) to the management.

• Deliver annual training and quarterly awareness messages on AML/CTF sanctions to all HALA staff.

• Apply Wolfsberg principles and best practices when assessing correspondent banking and remittance relationships.

• Act as the main point of contact for regulators, auditors, and law enforcement; lead audit and Inspection preparations and ensure timely resolution of any observations.

• Respond to all SAMA information requests within required timelines, ensuring accuracy and completeness.

• Continuously improve workflows by reducing false positives, automating reviews, and enhancing data quality.

• Perform any additional duties assigned by the Head of AML/CTF or their delegate.

Qualifications:

•  Bachelor's degree in Law, Finance, Business Administration, or equivalent studies (can be substituted with years of experience)

•  8 to 10 years of experience in a similar role

•  Advanced skills in Microsoft Office tools

•  Fluent in English and Arabic

•  Advanced knowledge of compliance and regulations

•  Core Competencies (Advanced Level):

• Self-Actualization & Fulfilment

• Team Synergy & Development

• Entrepreneurial Mindset & Drive

• Business Acumen & Diligence

• We have an inclusive and diverse culture that encourages innovation and flexibility in remote, in-office, and hybrid work setups.
• We offer highly competitive compensation packages, including the potential for shares.
• We prioritize personal development and offer regular training and an annual learning stipend to tackle new challenges and grow your career in a hyper-growth environment.
• Join a talented team of over 30 nationalities working in 7 countries and gain valuable experience in an exciting industry.
• We offer autonomy, mentoring, and challenging goals that create incredible opportunities for both you and the company.
• You will be given a lot of responsibility and trust. We believe that the best results come when the people responsible for a function are given the freedom to do what they think is best.