Kraken

Head of Compliance & Risk, UAE

United Arab Emirates

Not SpecifiedCompensation
Expert & Leadership (9+ years)Experience Level
Full TimeJob Type
UnknownVisa
Cryptocurrency, Financial Services, Blockchain TechnologyIndustries

Job Description: Head of Compliance and Risk

Employment Type: Full-Time Location Type: Remote Salary: [Not Specified]


Building the Future of Crypto

Krakenites are a world-class team with crypto conviction, united by our desire to discover and unlock the potential of crypto and blockchain technology.

What makes us different? Kraken is a mission-focused company rooted in crypto values. As a Krakenite, you’ll join us on our mission to accelerate the global adoption of crypto, so that everyone can achieve financial freedom and inclusion. For over a decade, Kraken’s focus on our mission and crypto ethos has attracted many of the most talented crypto experts in the world.

Before you apply, please read the [Kraken Culture]([Link to Kraken Culture Page]) page to learn more about our internal culture, values, and mission. We also expect candidates to familiarize themselves with the Kraken app. Learn how to create a Kraken account [here]([Link to Kraken Account Creation Guide]).

As a fully remote company, we have Krakenites in 70+ countries who speak over 50 languages. Krakenites are industry pioneers who develop premium crypto products for experienced traders, institutions, and newcomers to the space. Kraken is committed to industry-leading security, crypto education, and world-class client support through our products like Kraken Pro, Desktop, Wallet, and Kraken Futures.

Become a Krakenite and build the future of crypto!


The Team

We are seeking a seasoned Head of Compliance and Risk to lead the design, implementation, and oversight of our regulatory compliance and enterprise risk frameworks in accordance with VARA guidelines. This leadership role ensures that Kraken operates with integrity, complies with all applicable local and international laws, and proactively manages risks in a dynamic crypto environment. This is a senior-level role with direct influence on the company's regulatory and operational resilience.


The Opportunity

Compliance Oversight

  • Act as the Principal Compliance and Risk Officer
  • Manage and assist the Money Laundering Reporting Officer
  • Develop, maintain, and continuously improve the Compliance Management System aligned with VARA regulations and global best practices (FATF, AMLD5, etc.)
  • Oversee regulatory reporting and ensure timely and accurate filings to VARA and other relevant authorities
  • Serve as the point of contact for all regulatory examinations and audits

Risk Management

  • Establish and maintain a comprehensive Enterprise Risk Management (ERM) framework, identifying and mitigating operational, financial, and technological risks
  • Lead the creation and execution of Business Continuity Plans and Incident Response strategies
  • Collaborate with internal stakeholders to assess and manage emerging risks associated with crypto products and services

Strategic Leadership

  • Engage with global regulators, industry bodies, and advisory panels to maintain an informed regulatory posture
  • Provide input into strategic decisions including new product launches and cross-border expansions

Skills You Should HODL

  • Bachelor's or Master's degree
  • 5+ years of experience serving as a Compliance Officer, including at least 1 year in crypto, fintech, or virtual asset environments
  • Proven leadership experience in a regulated firm, ideally licensed under VARA or equivalent regimes (FCA, MAS, FINMA, etc.)
  • In-depth knowledge of AML, CFT, sanctions compliance, and data privacy
  • Fluent proficiency in English

Nice to haves:

  • Fluent proficiency in Arabic
  • CAMS, CRCM, ICA certifications, or equivalent

Application Information

  • This job is accepting ongoing applications and there is no application deadline.
  • Please note, applicants are permitted to redact or remove information on their resume that identifies age, date of birth, or dates of attendance at or graduation from an educational institution.
  • We consider qualified applicants with criminal histories for employment on our team, assessing candidates in a manner consistent with the requirements of the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance.

Company Information

Kraken is powered by people from around the world and we celebrate all Krakenites for their diverse talents, backgrounds, contributions and unique perspectives.

Skills

Compliance
Risk Management
VARA Guidelines
Regulatory Compliance
Enterprise Risk Frameworks
Money Laundering Reporting
Crypto
Blockchain

Kraken

Cryptocurrency exchange for buying and trading

About Kraken

Kraken is a cryptocurrency exchange platform that allows users to buy, sell, and trade various digital assets. It offers features that cater to both beginners and experienced traders, making it easy to navigate the cryptocurrency market. Users can execute trades with high liquidity, which means their transactions are completed quickly. The platform charges low transaction fees, sometimes as low as 0%, helping users keep more of their profits. Kraken also provides advanced charting tools to help investors track their investments effectively. Security is a major focus, with multiple protective measures in place to keep user assets safe. The platform supports 70 different asset pairs and is continuously expanding its offerings. Additionally, Kraken offers 24/7 global support to assist users with any questions or issues.

San Francisco, CaliforniaHeadquarters
2011Year Founded
$108.5MTotal Funding
SERIES_CCompany Stage
Crypto & Web3, Financial ServicesIndustries
501-1,000Employees

Benefits

Competitive salary and equity plan
401k contribution plan
Vacation & Generous PTO
Paid Tranings

Risks

Increased competition from Binance and Coinbase could impact Kraken's market share.
Regulatory scrutiny in the EU may raise Kraken's compliance costs.
The volatility of cryptocurrency prices can affect Kraken's revenue from transaction fees.

Differentiation

Kraken offers both spot and futures trading for over 40 digital assets.
The platform provides advanced charting tools for professional traders and technical analysts.
Kraken's 24/7 global support ensures assistance for users at any time.

Upsides

Kraken's acquisition of Staked enhances its staking services for consumers and institutions.
Sponsorship deals with major soccer clubs boost Kraken's visibility and brand recognition.
The rise of crypto derivatives attracts advanced traders to Kraken's sophisticated tools.

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