Deputy Manager, Virtual Asset Service Provider Oversight and Compliance in Digital Payment Services Division at Central Bank of Kenya

Job Purpose

The role holder is responsible for implementing and overseeing the supervisory framework for licensed Virtual Asset Service Providers (VASPs). This includes conducting risk-based supervision, monitoring compliance, investigating potential breaches including contributing to policy development. The position holder is responsible for assessment of the implementation of prudential and market conduct activities of VASPs to promote safety and stability of the national payment system.

Key Duties and Responsibilities

Technical and Operational Responsibilities

• Conduct ongoing, risk-based supervision of licensed VASPs.
• Perform comprehensive compliance reviews and on-site/offsite examinations of VASPs’ operations, focusing on AML/CFT/CPF, consumer protection, cyber security, and operational resilience.
• Monitor adherence to licensing conditions, including capital adequacy, governance, and general compliance with the VASP law, including other relevant laws.
• Investigate potential instances of non-compliance, market abuse or unlicensed VASP activities.
• Recommend and oversee corrective actions, sanctions, or enforcement actions in line with the provisions of VASP laws.
• Serve as the main supervisory contact for assigned VASPs including guidance on regulatory expectations.
• Maintain a current understanding of emerging risks, trends, and typologies in the virtual asset space.
• Prepare detailed reports and briefings on management on the status, risks, and overall health of the regulated VASP sector.
• Contributes to the development and revision of polices, laws, regulations, circulars, and supervisory frameworks related to market conduct and consumer protection in the payments sector.
• Engage with VASPs to communicate regulatory expectations and provide guidance on market conduct-related matters.
• Collaborating with other departments within the CBK and regulators on VASP activities and information sharing.

Other Responsibilities

• Performing any other duties assigned by Section Head

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree in a relevant field e.g. Economics, Law, Computer Science or Business Administration.
• Professional qualifications and membership are an added advantage.

Work Experience

• At least six (6) years’ experience working in payment systems oversight or compliance specialist or other similar functional area roles, with at least two (2) years in a supervisory capacity. Experience in supervision of market conduct or handling consumer protection responsibilities is an added advantage .