Alberto, our pillar of compliance excellence.

Alberto Altamirano isn't just a compliance expert; he is an architect of trust and a champion for financial innovation. With over 10 years of experience navigating the international regulatory landscape, Alberto brings a wealth of knowledge and a proven track record to ALTUS Compliance.

Authorized by the DFSA, FSRA and VARA as a Compliance Officer and MLRO, Alberto has a deep understanding of the specific requirements for different regulatory categories. He is a trusted advisor, specializing in helping financial services firms not just comply with regulations, but thrive within them.

Alberto's expertise extends far beyond theory. He's personally assisted firms from all regulatory categories, guiding them through the process of remedying deficiencies and implementing robust compliance frameworks that meet the ever-evolving standards of the DFSA, ADGM, VARA, etc.

Adept at navigating the complexities of Fintech, Alberto has successfully managed various projects involving crowdfunding platforms and money service providers, ensuring they operate within regulatory boundaries while fostering innovation.

His qualifications are as impressive as his experience. Alberto is a qualified Lawyer (Mexico) and holds a Master's degree in Finance, providing a strong foundation in both legal and financial aspects of compliance. He further bolstered his expertise with a Diploma in Investment Compliance and the International Advanced Certificate in Compliance.

Alberto's commitment to excellence is evident in his professional journey. Prior to co-founding ALTUS Compliance, he served as Director & MLRO at a prestigious compliance consultancy in the UAE, and held positions at the Mexican Stock Exchange and top global law firms.

Alberto’s impactful work demonstrates his ability to deliver tangible results for clients in navigating complex regulatory compliance. He has been registered for numerous firms as Compliance Officer and MLRO, providing the crucial regulatory foundation for successful operations. For new applicants, he designs bespoke compliance and AML frameworks, minimizing future regulatory scrutiny. His insightful training programs empower staff and foster a culture of compliance. By responding to DFSA Consultation Papers, he actively contributes to shaping the regulatory landscape. He expertly guides firms through licensing applications in DIFC, ADGM, VARA, etc., saving time and resources. His proven track record in preparing firms for successful DFSA/FSRA regulatory risk assessments proactively mitigates potential vulnerabilities. Notably, he managed the FSRA licensing application for a blockchain-based money service provider, showcasing his fintech expertise. Finally, his assistance to crowdfunding platforms underscores his ability to provide tailored solutions for innovative business models. This diverse experience provides valuable expertise that ALTUS clients can leverage to achieve their compliance goals and drive sustainable growth.

Beyond his technical expertise, Alberto brings valuable personal qualities to the table. He's multilingual, adaptable, and a strong communicator, fostering a collaborative environment where clients feel heard and understood.

Alberto is more than just a compliance expert; he's a trusted partner on your journey towards regulatory peace of mind and sustainable growth. His ability to navigate the ever-changing regulatory landscape is matched only by his ability to navigate a crowded souk – both require a keen eye, a quick wit, and a bit of good-natured negotiation.

Mercedes, our global legal mind driving compliance.

Mercedes Torres Lagarde is a dual-qualified lawyer (Solicitor - England & Wales and Abogada -Mexico) with a truly international perspective and a sharp focus on compliance and AML. As a Partner at ALTUS Compliance, she brings a unique blend of legal expertise, commercial acumen, and a deep understanding of the regulatory landscape across multiple jurisdictions.

Mercedes's career has been defined by navigating complex legal and regulatory environments across the globe. Her experience advising on high-value international disputes has honed her ability to analyze intricate legal frameworks and develop effective strategies for dispute resolution, skills directly transferable to the meticulous analysis required for robust compliance programs. This background, combined with her experience in top-tier international law firms, has instilled in her a meticulous approach to legal analysis and a dedication to achieving the best possible outcomes for clients, ensuring that compliance is not just a matter of checking boxes, but a strategic advantage. 

Her 10+ years’ experience in Dubai provided her with invaluable insights into the region’s business and regulatory landscape, giving her a first-hand understanding of the practical challenges and opportunities businesses face in maintaining compliance. Furthermore, her experience working with international law firms in Paris, Dubai and Mexico City has given her a broad understanding of diverse legal systems and business cultures. This global perspective is invaluable in today's interconnected business world, allowing her to anticipate regulatory trends and provide clients with forward-thinking compliance solutions.

Mercedes’s commitment to excellence is deeply rooted in her notable qualifications. As a dual-qualified lawyer, she possesses a unique understanding of both common and civil law systems, providing a valuable perspective for clients operating across diverse jurisdictions. Her LL.M. from the University of Geneva and the Graduate Institute of International and Development Studies—ranked among the world’s top international law programs—further underscores her profound grasp of global legal frameworks. This rigorous academic foundation is complemented by her CISI Level 3 Awards in both Global Financial Compliance and Combating Financial Crime, demonstrating her dedication to staying at the cutting edge of industry best practices and ensuring clients receive the most up-to-date and effective compliance strategies.

Her consulting background encompasses a wide range of compliance projects, including the development of tailored policies and procedures, strategic advice on cross-border transactions, detailed regulatory gap analyses, and the implementation of robust risk assessment and monitoring programs. Her exposure to both local and international businesses allows her to provide pragmatic, results-oriented solutions grounded in both regulatory mandates and industry best practices. She highly proficient in the DIFC and ADGM regulatory frameworks and regularly serves as Compliance Officer and MLRO for entities in key financial centres.

Beyond her inspiring credentials, Mercedes is a highly effective communicator and a true global citizen. Her multilingualism (English, Spanish, French, and beginner Arabic) enables her to connect with clients from diverse backgrounds and build strong, trusted relationships.

Having lived and worked across continents, Mercedes understands that compliance is not a one-size-fits-all world. She brings a global perspective to every challenge, ensuring that solutions are not only compliant but also culturally (business wise too!) sensitive – a skill honed by navigating everything from Parisian traffic to Dubai roundabouts.