Overview
We are recruiting a Client Onboarding Officer for our Belfast team. This is a critical operational role within the firm's Risk function. You will be responsible for the end-to-end inception process, acting as a primary gatekeeper for the firm.
We are looking for a candidate who is already competent in both Conflicts of Interest and AML/CDD. The ideal candidate will demonstrate the ability to analyse complex corporate structures, identify regulatory risks, and apply judgment to maintain an excellent onboarding function.
Key Responsibilities
Conflicts Clearance
* Analyse complex conflict check results generated by the firm's systems (Intapp), differentiating between administrative "false positives" and genuine legal or commercial conflicts.
* Investigate corporate relationships to determine if a conflict exists, utilizing internal databases and external corporate intelligence tools.
* Identify potential conflicts and escalate where necessary, liaising directly with stakeholders to resolve issues efficiently.
* Maintain clear and auditable records of all conflict clearance activity.
Client Due Diligence (CDD)
* Experience of detailed Due Diligence on high-risk clients, including unravelling complex ownership structures (Trusts, SPVs, Funds) to identify Ultimate Beneficial Owners (UBOs).
* Advise on CDD requirements across multiple jurisdictions, tailoring guidance to local regulatory expectations.
* Perform risk assessments at client inception and during updates, identifying high-risk clients through screening and analysis.
* Investigate and assess adverse media, politically exposed persons (PEPs), and source of wealth/funds, preparing clear and concise reports for senior review.
* Collate all research and approvals in a structured and comprehensible manner for internal use.
Ad Hoc Support
* Respond to onboarding, billing, and file-opening queries from fee-earners, PAs, and business services teams.
* Assist the Money Laundering Reporting Officer (MLRO) with research for suspicious activity reports.
Key Skills & Experience
* Experience in both conflicts checking and anti-money laundering (AML) processes.
* Familiarity with a multi-jurisdictional legal environment
* Strong research and analytical skills, with the ability to interpret and communicate findings clearly.
* Manage a high-volume workload independently, prioritizing urgent matter openings without compromising on regulatory accuracy.
* Confident communicator, comfortable engaging with stakeholders at all levels.
* Self-motivated and collaborative, with a willingness to take on both complex and routine tasks as needed.
* Experience using Intapp and screening platforms.
Who are we looking for?
* We don't have a type. We believe our differences are our strength; varied cultures, approaches and experience can only benefit us.
What do we offer?
* You can be yourself: It takes everyone to make us who we are. We're a culture of diverse perspectives, with each of us making unique contributions that make us better together.
* In the office or WFH?: We think the best balance is more time in the office than at home, so we operate a 60:40 rule.
* Beyond salary: We offer plenty of benefits; private medical insurance, health cash plan, dental insurance, life assurance, critical illness insurance, matched pension contributions up to 7%, holiday trading, plus many more. Visit: Reward & Benefits ¦ Fieldfisher.
* Modern Office Space: Located in the iconic Titanic Quarter with excellent commuter links and parking nearby.
* Nurturing your talent: Take a 'build a career' approach to your training. You'll be on a pathway but free to wander if you see something you'd like to study more closely.
* Funnel your interests: You have a life outside work, and we can help it to flourish. Join clubs, affinity networks, inclusive events, and pro bono/charity initiatives.
Inclusion is not exclusive:
If all our differences are highlighted, no one stands out for being different. At Fieldfisher, all our rich diversity is celebrated.
We will provide the equipment to allow you to shine, at interview and beyond. Just let us know what you need.
For accessibility information on our Belfast office, visit: Accessing Fieldfisher Belfast Hub ¦ Fieldfisher
What to do next:
* Click 'Apply Now', complete an online application and upload a CV.
* Successful applications will be invited to a 20–30-minute introductory call with a recruiter.
* Every role recruits differently. But we'll always let you know what to expect from the process, so you get no surprises.
* For hybrid opportunities, you'll be invited to visit our offices for a face-to-face meeting.
* We try to make sure the process takes around 2-3 weeks only, but we can't always promise that. We will work around everyone's availability. You can contact us at
We recruit on a rolling basis. Your application may be reviewed before the application deadline. We accept applications until we have filled the role.
The Firm
We are not a UK firm with offices in Europe. We are a European law firm at our core. While our HQ is London, we are spreading across Europe at pace. In addition to UK, China and Silicon Valley we have offices in Austria, Belgium, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Poland, and Spain.
With 1,800 people across 25 offices in 13 countries you might expect an impersonal office culture, but you will find a homely, family feel even in the largest offices.
Quality on both sides
Across all our offices and jurisdictions are market-leading practices in corporate/M&A, finance, real estate, energy and natural resources, technology and life sciences.
We count as clients large corporations including major technology firms, pharmaceutical and life sciences companies, energy suppliers, infrastructure companies, global banks and financial institutions.
We aim to ensure equality of opportunity and are actively working towards improving the diversity of our staff. Applications will be considered on merit and the applicant's suitability to meet the requirements of the role.
Benefits
Life assurance
Season ticket loans
Bike to work loans
Testimonials
"It is great being in a firm which "gets" cross-office working – to feel properly part of a national team and to work with colleagues in other specialisms who are unconstrained by geography."
"I consider Fieldfisher to be a progressive firm with an understanding of social values. I'm pleased that staff is able to have input in the firm's direction and purpose as well as help to shape wider society. I'm encouraged to perform by being able to develop in a natural way, whilst being supported at every step.
Fieldfisher has managed to nurture a really positive and friendly culture. If they have drive and ambition, I would encourage anybody looking for a role here to grab the opportunity."
"Since joining Fieldfisher in 2016, I have progressed from an entry-level secretarial role to an experienced executive assistant. This was made possible by a supportive and inclusive working environment that allows staff to progress at a pace that is best suited to them which in turn makes for well-rounded, home-grown talent.
The firm strikes a great balance between providing the foundations for success and autonomy of your own growth and development. An insight I would give to potential applicants is that Fieldfisher offers the opportunity for a career and a sense of belonging to a community and not just a job."
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