Head of Compliance and MLRO
Hybrid
London
This is a critical role responsible for driving the organization’s compliance strategy and shaping a strong risk and regulatory culture across the business.
About the Role:
As the Head of Compliance and MLRO, you will oversee the company’s Compliance and Financial Crime functions. Your primary mission will be to protect the business from financial crime risks such as fraud, money laundering, and internal threats, while ensuring adherence to relevant laws and regulations. You will also be responsible for leading teams both in the UK and internationally, embedding a culture of compliance across all jurisdictions.
Key Responsibilities:
* Lead and manage the Anti-Money Laundering (AML) Compliance function, ensuring robust controls, oversight, and coordination across all operations.
* Manage and support compliance teams located in the UK and overseas.
* Oversee the Financial Crime Prevention function, ensuring protection against fraud, money laundering, internal threats, and reputational risks.
* Maintain and nurture relationships with key banking partners.
* Own the Compliance framework and drive its implementation and continuous improvement.
* Design, implement, and maintain a strategic and tactical AML program.
* Stay informed and ensure compliance with all applicable local and international AML laws, regulations, and guidance.
* Develop and manage regular compliance reporting processes for senior management and the board.
* Investigate and resolve all potentially suspicious activities in line with internal policies and procedures.
* Lead the response to issues raised in audits, compliance reviews, or regulatory examinations.
* Personally manage and conduct high-profile or sensitive investigations as needed.
* Collaborate with financial industry peers and law enforcement to monitor trends in fraud and criminal activities.
* Represent the organization in discussions with law enforcement and industry groups to identify threats and promote best practices.
Required Skills & Experience:
* Minimum 5 years of experience as a Compliance Officer and MLRO within the Payments or Electronic Money industry in the UK (experience in EEA is a plus).
* Strong knowledge of AML/CTF legislation and SARs (Suspicious Activity Reports) process.
* Deep understanding of UK regulatory frameworks including MLRs, PSRs, and EMRs.
* Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
* Proven ability to engage and influence senior stakeholders.
* Strong leadership skills with a strategic mindset.