Overview
About Us
Core42, a leader in AI-powered cloud and digital infrastructure, is driving transformative technology solutions globally. Leveraging advanced resources and partnerships, Core42 empowers clients to harness sovereign AI infrastructure, especially in sectors with stringent regulatory needs. With a mission to redefine digital transformation, we combine sovereign capabilities with scalable, high-performance compute infrastructure, positioning itself at the forefront of AI innovation in the Middle East and beyond.
The opportunity
The Director of Ethics & Compliance is a strategic role that leads Core 42’s global compliance programmes in the areas of export controls, sanctions compliance, compliance risk management, and the design and oversight of our compliance management system (CMS).
Reporting to the VP of Ethics, Compliance & Sustainability, this role plays a critical part in safeguarding our business operations and technology as we scale globally. The Director also provides cross-functional support to the broader Ethics & Compliance Programme, including training, investigations, and policy initiatives, in collaboration with other compliance leads.
Responsibilities
Your Key Responsibilities
Export Controls & Sanctions Compliance
- Define and lead Core42’s global strategy for export controls and sanctions compliance, ensuring alignment with Group Compliance and regulatory requirements across key jurisdictions (e.g., EAR, OFAC, UK, EU, UAE).
- Develop and scale a risk-based trade compliance framework that supports Core42’s rapid growth in AI and cloud infrastructure, including the proactive management of regulatory change.
- Oversee the governance and control environment for Core42’s Regulated Technology Environment, ensuring it remains compliant, secure, and fit for purpose in a fast-evolving regulatory landscape.
- Drive operational ownership of compliance by equipping frontline teams with the knowledge, tools, and processes needed to conduct initial due diligence and screening of partners and customers effectively.
- Anticipate and respond to global trade and technology regulatory developments, embedding long-term compliance planning into Core42’s innovation and market expansion strategies.
Compliance Risk Management
- Govern and maintain a strategic compliance obligations register. Establish and oversee a centralized framework that integrates compliance requirements into enterprise risk management, ensuring clear ownership, accountability, and alignment with business objectives across all functions.
- Empower leadership to proactively manage ethics and compliance risks. Enable leaders at all levels to identify, assess, and respond to compliance risks across the organization, fostering a culture of accountability and ethical decision-making..
Compliance Management System (CMS)
- Design and continuously improve a compliance management system aligned with ISO 37301 or equivalent standards, ensuring integration with enterprise governance and risk frameworks.
- Implement and oversee compliance policies, controls, reporting structures, and audit mechanisms that support regulatory adherence and operational accountability.
- Develop and maintain performance indicators and dashboards that provide leadership with strategic insights into the effectiveness and maturity of the compliance programme..
Support to Ethics & Compliance Programme
- Provide input and back-up support to ethics & compliance activities such as:
- Employee training and communications
- Incident reporting and investigations
- Policy development and ethics advisory
- Collaborate with the broader compliance and legal team on cross-cutting regulatory issues and initiatives.
Qualifications
Required skills / qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree required, advanced degree in Law, International Trade, or related field preferred. Qualified lawyer, an advantage.
- 12+ years of experience in compliance, ethics, or legal roles in global organizations, preferably in tech, AI, or infrastructure sectors.
- Knowledge of export control and sanctions regimes (e.g., EAR, OFAC, EU, UK regulations).
- Experience designing or managing a compliance management system (CMS) or internal controls framework.
- Strong risk assessment and project management skills.
- Excellent judgment, integrity, and ability to navigate complex, cross-border compliance issues.
- Comfortable working in a fast-paced, innovative, and globally distributed environment.
- Experience leading and mentoring teams.
- Demonstrated ability to engage, influence, and collaborate with senior leaders through strategic dialogue, reporting, and advisory support on compliance and risk matters.
What Working At Core42 Offers
With a diverse team of 1,100+ employees from 68 nationalities, we foster an inclusive, innovative and collaborative environment. At Core42, we foster a culture grounded in trust, accountability and high performance. We are united by our values:
Grit, where we overcome challenges with resilience and determination,
Passion, which drives us to pursue excellence in everything we do, and
Impact, as we aim to inspire progress and create meaningful change. Our team members thrive in an environment where each person’s contributions propel us forward, and together, we commit to achieving extraordinary results.
- Competitive Salary: We offer an attractive salary package based on your skills and experience
- Yearly Bonus: In recognition of your contributions, you will receive a performance-based annual bonus
- Exclusive Discount Cards: Access special benefits with Esaad and Fazaa cards, offering discounts across a wide range of services
- Premium Family Insurance: We provide comprehensive health coverage, including dental, vision and life insurance, ensuring the well-being of you and your family
- Learning & Development: We offer access to top-tier learning platforms to help you grow in your career. Learn at your own pace with unlimited access to premium courses.