We are one of the few firms in the UAE to have a dedicated team of lawyers that spend over 80% of their time on corporate investigations and compliance related matters, and we are well known for our expertise advising clients on global economic sanctions and export controls. As a Senior Associate within the compliance and investigations team of the Litigation & Regulatory Group at DLA Piper in Dubai, you will advise clients on a broad range matters related to sanctions compliance and export control regulations, including transactional counselling, design of compliance programs, license applications, and defending regulatory investigations. Operating within a team of nine fee earners, including two partners, this position requires 3 to 5 years of experience with U.S., EU, or UK economic sanctions or export controls, strong drafting skills and the ability to effectively manage multiple clients/matters in parallel.

The role will be based in our Dubai office, with a flexible work-from-home policy.

MAIN DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

As part of our market leading global trade team, candidates will enjoy a high-quality range of work including, but not be limited to:

1. Legal Advisory:

• Provide expert legal advice to clients on sanctions compliance and export control matters, including regulatory requirements, risk assessments, and compliance strategies.
• Conduct legal research and analysis to interpret and apply relevant laws, regulations, and guidance from U.S., EU, or UK sanctions authorities.
• Assist clients in developing tailored compliance programs and policies to mitigate sanctions and export control risks.

2. Transactional Support:

• Support clients in assessing transactions to ensure compliance with sanctions and export control regulations.
• Conduct due diligence on prospective partners, customers, and transactions to assess compliance risks and identify potential red flags.
• Assist with drafting and negotiating agreements with a focus on incorporating necessary compliance safeguards and provisions.

3. Regulatory Investigations and Enforcement Actions:

• Represent clients in regulatory investigations and enforcement actions related to sanctions and export control violations, in the U.S. and Europe.
• Conduct internal investigations, for sanctions, export control, and anti-corruption violations;
• Interview witnesses and implement defence strategies to mitigate regulatory penalties and reputational damage.

4. Compliance Training and Awareness:

• Develop and deliver training programs to educate clients on sanctions and export control requirements, best practices, and emerging trends.
• Provide ongoing guidance and support to clients on compliance-related matters, including compliance audits, risk assessments, and internal investigations.
• Serve as a trusted advisor to clients, offering proactive advice and solutions to address compliance challenges and mitigate risks.

5. Thought Leadership and Client Development:

• Stay abreast of developments in sanctions and export control regulations, industry trends, and legal precedents.
• Contribute to thought leadership initiatives, including writing articles, delivering presentations, and participating in industry events, to enhance the firm\'s reputation and visibility in the market.
• Cultivate and maintain strong client relationships through exceptional service, responsiveness, and value-added insights.

ABOUT YOU

We do not set upper or lower limits of PQE for any of our vacancies. We have, however, given an indicative PQE as an approximate guide for applicants. Candidates who have upwards of 5 years\' experience are likely to have the right level of knowledge and have gained the right level of experience needed to be able to undertake this role.

The ideal candidate will:

• Qualified lawyer with a minimum of 3 years of experience in U.S., EU or UK sanctions or export controls
• Demonstrated experience advising clients on complex legal and regulatory issues, with a focus on providing practical solutions and strategic guidance.
• Excellent research, writing, and communication skills, with the ability to convey complex legal concepts clearly and effectively.
• Proven ability to work collaboratively in a team environment and manage multiple priorities under deadlines.
• Fluency in English; proficiency in other languages is a plus.
• Experience working in a reputable law firm or regulatory agency is preferred.

Behavioural skills:

• A values-based approach - the candidate should be bold, supportive, collaborative and exceptional; Commercially astute and stays current on key legal and business news;
• Excellent skills in communication, client relations, and team-working;
• A proactive, self-driven, entrepreneurial and innovative outlook
• Provides a professional, quality service in a timely manner, and responds effectively to requests from internal and external clients;
• Understands positive client support;
• Creates confidence in the team and the firm;
• Works co-operatively in a team, sharing information and knowledge;
• Manages time effectively and efficiently;
• Seeks to manage own utilisation wherever possible in order to meet individual and team targets;
• Takes ownership for achieving agreed objectives;
• Recognises and seizes opportunities for the firm, including repeat business;
• Builds and develops own network of internal and external contacts;
• Develops and awareness of business development initiatives in the department and identifies ways to contribute;
• Maintains a controlled, objective and flexible approach under pressure; and
• Exhibits behaviour consistent with the firm\'s values and builds relationships based on respect, trust and integrity.