AML IMPLEMENTATION LEAD - REAL ESTATE

An experienced AML implementation lead is sought for a six-month engagement to support the design, development, and implementation of a robust Anti-Money Laundering (AML) framework across multiple lines of business within a leading UAE real estate group. The successful candidate will work closely with compliance, operations, and technology stakeholders to assess the current state, design compliant processes, develop policy documentation, and evaluate AML technology solutions — ensuring full alignment with UAE regulatory requirements.

Key Responsibilities

• The consultant will conduct structured interviews, workshops, and walkthroughs with key stakeholders across the organisation's lines of business, including property management, leasing, sales, finance, and other AML-touchpoint functions. They will document current AML-related processes across people, process, and technology dimensions, identify gaps and risks against UAE AML/CFT regulations — including CBUAE guidelines, FATF recommendations, and real estate sector-specific obligations — and produce a Current State Assessment Report capturing findings, observations, and a prioritized gap analysis.
• The consultant will design end-to-end AML processes using SAP Signavio in BPMN 2.0 notation, covering Customer Due Diligence (CDD) and Enhanced Due Diligence (EDD), Suspicious Transaction Reporting (STR) and escalation workflows, name and sanctions screening, PEP identification, and ongoing monitoring and periodic review cycles. They will collaborate with the Business Excellence team to align process designs with the organisation's existing process architecture and documentation standards, and facilitate review and sign-off workshops with process owners and compliance stakeholders.
• Working alongside the Business Excellence team, the consultant will draft an AML Policy — including purpose, scope, roles and responsibilities, and regulatory linkage — and develop supporting frameworks covering an AML Risk Appetite Statement, Customer Risk Scoring Methodology, AML Controls Framework, and a Roles and Responsibilities Matrix (RACI). All documents must be formatted in line with the organisation's policy governance standards and prepared for Board and Senior Management approval. The role also includes delivering a concise AML awareness module that communicates key obligations and ensures staff understand their responsibilities in preventing and reporting suspicious activities.

AML Database and Technology Exploration

• The consultant will research and evaluate commercially available AML screening and monitoring tools relevant to the real estate sector — such as World-Check, Dow Jones Risk and Compliance, ComplyAdvantage, and LexisNexis — and collaborate with IT to develop the target-state design and architecture.

Required Qualifications and Experience

• Minimum 7 years of experience in AML compliance, financial crime risk, or regulatory consulting, preferably within the real estate, banking, or financial services sectors
• Demonstrated knowledge of UAE AML/CFT regulations, CBUAE guidelines, and FATF recommendations
• Hands-on experience designing AML frameworks, policies, and risk methodologies
• Proficiency in process modelling using SAP Signavio or equivalent BPMN 2.0 tools
• Experience evaluating and implementing AML screening and monitoring technology platforms
• Proven ability to engage and influence senior stakeholders and facilitate workshops
• Strong written communication skills with experience producing board-ready documentation

Preferred Qualifications

• Professional certification such as CAMS (Certified Anti-Money Laundering Specialist), ICA, or equivalent
• Prior experience in the UAE real estate sector or with a UAE-regulated entity
• Familiarity with large property group operating models

Vertical: Technology