• Money Laundering Reporting Officer (MLRO)

    • Core Competencies

      The MLRO should have:

      (a) A clear understanding of the role and responsibilities associated with the position;
      (b) A good understanding of financial services activity relevant to the licensee and the wider industry and its regulatory environment;
      (c) The relevant experience and qualifications to fulfill his responsibilities;
      (d) Strong understanding of FATF guidelines and regulatory requirements in Bahrain;
      (e) Experience in creating and executing an institution-wide AML strategy that integrates with broader risk management and compliance programs;
      (f) Proficiency in developing and maintaining AML policies and procedures that align with regulatory requirements and industry best practices;
      (g) Competence in updating policies in response to changes in the legal landscape, emerging financial crimes, or audit recommendations;
      (h) Proficiency in developing, managing, and improving KYC and CDD, EDD frameworks to ensure the institution collects appropriate customer data;
      (i) Expertise in using, configuring and overseeing AML software tools to monitor suspicious transactions, detect unusual activity patterns, and ensure compliance with regulatory reporting obligations;
      (j) Ability to implement a risk-based approach to AML compliance, where resources are allocated according to the risk levels of different products, clients, or geographies;
      (k) Expertise in conducting AML risk assessments to evaluate the inherent risks within the organization, and adjusting policies, procedures, and controls accordingly;
      (l) Strong investigative skills to analyze complex customer transactions, payment flows, and financial patterns that might indicate potential money laundering activities;
      (m) Knowledge of how to file Suspicious Transaction Reports (STRs) with relevant financial authorities; and
      (n) Knowledge of international sanctions screening software and ensuring the company is not doing business with blacklisted entities or individuals.
      Added: March 2025

    • Experience and Qualifications

      (a) A minimum experience of 5 years in anti-money laundering and terrorist financing role; and

      (b) Hold a relevant academic/professional qualification which include, but are not limited to:

      (i) Certified Anti-Money Laundering Specialist (CAMS)
      (ii) Diploma in Anti-Money Laundering offered by the International Compliance Association.
      Added: March 2025