A new initiative in Azerbaijan’s legal and business environment, aimed at promoting compliance with legal, ethical, and regulatory norms, has been officially registered. On July 10, 2025, the “Compliance Association” Public Union was registered by the Ministry of Justice of the Republic of Azerbaijan.
The Association’s primary objective is to foster the development of a compliance culture, thereby enhancing ethical governance, effective risk management, and the professional talent pool across various sectors. Alongside creating mechanisms to help businesses operate in line with national and international legislation, the Association seeks to serve as a bridge between domestic laws and global standards, to support the adoption of practical approaches for implementing legal requirements, and to provide methodological and institutional assistance for structuring and effectively applying the risk function in both the public and private sectors. Furthermore, it aims to conduct research and regulatory initiatives, strengthen partnerships in the field of compliance, and foster a broad and engaged compliance community.
The Association was founded by renowned compliance professionals Kamal Abdullayev, Almaz Musayeva, and Leyla Səlimzadə.
Kamal Abdullayev is the Chief Compliance Officer and a Member of the Executive Board at “Kapital Bank” OJSC. With a degree in international law, he has over 20 years of experience in legal assurance, risk management, compliance, strategic, and corporate governance in both banking and non-financial sectors. His professional approach and structured management skills bring significant value to the Association’s strategic directions.
Leyla Səlimzadə is the Director of the Compliance Department at “Rabitə Bank” OJSC. Alongside her extensive experience in the banking sector, she is an international trainer in compliance and has played a key role in developing qualified professionals in the field. As a co-founder and Executive Director of the Association, she is actively involved in its operational activities.
The Board of Directors is composed of professionals with extensive experience, strategic vision, and strong decision-making skills from various sectors of the economy:
Aytac Qasımova — Director of the Group Legal and Compliance Department at “Pasha Holding” LLC. In addition to her professional work, she actively participates in organizing and supporting various professional events for the development of the legal system, as well as mentoring young lawyers and promoting knowledge exchange. Her contributions to the diversification of the economy and her deep expertise play a significant role in shaping the Association’s regulatory framework.
Xəyalə Nağıyeva — Chief Financial Officer and Board Member at “Azerbaijan Green Energy Company” LLC. Her current work focuses on building and developing sustainable investments in the energy sector. Her expertise in corporate banking and direct investments makes her one of the leading experts in corporate governance and the application of international risk standards within the Association.
Nuran Kərimov — Managing Partner at Deloitte Azerbaijan. He has many years of experience advising companies and individuals, both locally and internationally, on tax and related business matters. He has participated in numerous projects aimed at improving corporate structures, including structuring international corporate frameworks for Azerbaijani companies and facilitating foreign multinational investments in Azerbaijan. His strong professional connections and strategic partnerships play an important role in promoting the Association.
Niyaz İsmayılov — Chairman of the Executive Board at “PAŞA Insurance” OJSC. In addition to his deep experience in banking and insurance, his ability to analyze economic processes in financial markets and shape strategic decisions is crucial in guiding the institutional development of the Association. He is one of the key figures in strengthening the Association’s organizational sustainability.
Almaz Musayeva — Director of the Compliance Department at “Kapital Bank” OJSC and a founding Board Member of the “ACAMS Euroasia Chapter”. Her representation in international compliance platforms and professional contributions are of particular importance for integrating the Association into global best practices.
The “Compliance Association” Public Union plans to launch a series of public events, training programs, and awareness-raising projects soon to help build a strong compliance ecosystem in the country.
