About the job
Wise is seeking a seasoned and strategic Senior Compliance Manager to join our dynamic team in Dubai. This pivotal role involves developing, leading, and managing the compliance framework for our innovative stablecoin and virtual asset services, which are licensed by Dubai's Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (VARA). This position offers a unique chance to shape our compliance strategy in a new regulatory context.
In your capacity as the Senior Compliance Manager, you will serve as the primary liaison with VARA, ensuring our operations not only satisfy but surpass regulatory expectations. Collaborating closely with a global team of experts from Product, Legal, Operations, and Engineering, you will facilitate the launch and scaling of groundbreaking products in a safe and compliant manner, aligning with our mission to make financial transactions instant, convenient, and transparent for everyone.
Key Responsibilities:
1. Regulatory Oversight & Licensing
Act as the appointed Virtual Asset Compliance Officer (VACO) as mandated by VARA, taking ultimate responsibility for the compliance framework's integrity and effectiveness.
Manage the relationship with VARA, acting as the main contact for all licensing, reporting, examinations, and strategic engagements.
Construct and sustain a robust, scalable compliance program aligned with VARA's regulations.
Oversee the maintenance of our VARA license, and continuously monitor, interpret, and advise the business on regulatory developments from VARA and other pertinent UAE authorities.
2. Governance & Advisory
Adapt and implement Wise’s global compliance policies to ensure they are tailored for compliance with VARA regulations.
Design and deliver focused training sessions to the Board and senior management regarding the VARA framework and associated risks of virtual assets.
Provide direct reports to the Board and senior leadership on the compliance program's status, offering insights into emerging risks and control effectiveness.
Serve as the key strategic advisor to the business, providing clear and actionable compliance guidance on new product development and market expansion.
3. Financial Crime Compliance
Design and oversee the financial crime risk management framework, addressing risks specific to virtual assets including blockchain analytics, the

