As the Money Laundering Reporting Officer (MLRO) for digital assets, you will play a critical role in building our digital assets compliance programme and scaling as we launch with customers in the UK, and eventually globally. You will work across multiple vertical functions, providing leadership, expertise, and operational execution. This role will sit within the Taptap Send UK although you will work closely with the local team and the global Taptap Send Group. You will be primarily responsible for all aspects of the second line of defence as they relate to digital assets within the UK (and beyond), ensuring compliance with FCA guidance and other relevant regulations while engaging with regulatory bodies as required. You will also support our expansion into other jurisdictions, tailoring our digital assets' AML program and controls to comply with other regulations.
Responsibilities
* Due Diligence & Onboarding: Design the KYC/KYB onboarding process for customers holding digital assets, with a focus on risks such as anonymity, source of funds verification, and wallet screening. Oversee enhanced due diligence for high‑risk customers and counterparties.
* Transaction Monitoring & Financial Crime Prevention: Oversee the implementation and ongoing refinement of transaction monitoring systems, crypto‑specific risk indicators, sanctions screening, and suspicious activity detection. Ensure timely and accurate submission of Suspicious Activity Reports (SARs) to the National Crime Agency (NCA).
* Regulatory Compliance & AML Oversight: Ensure full compliance with applicable UK legislation, including the Money Laundering Regulations (MLRs), Proceeds of Crime Act (POCA), Sanctions and Anti‑Money Laundering Act, and relevant FCA requirements for cryptoasset firms. Maintain and enhance internal financial crime policies and risk‑based procedures.
* Regulatory Engagement: Act as the primary point of contact for the FCA and other UK enforcement and regulatory bodies where a query is related to digital assets. Manage regulatory queries, audits, and thematic reviews, fostering a transparent and cooperative relationship.
* Policy & Process Development: Develop, own, and maintain all digital‑asset‑focused AML/CTF policies and procedures in line with FCA expectations and evolving global best practices in the digital asset sector.
* Regulatory Reporting: Provide relevant inputs for all FCA‑required reporting.
* Risk Monitoring & Compliance Testing: Continuously assess financial crime risks associated with digital assets and related services. Design and execute ongoing compliance testing and assurance reviews to monitor adherence to regulatory obligations and internal standards.
* Internal Reporting: Prepare clear and actionable compliance updates for executive leadership, risk committees, and the board. Provide strategic input on compliance performance, incident trends, and emerging risks in the digital asset space.
* Training & Culture Building: Design and deliver tailored AML and compliance training programs across the business, focusing on crypto‑specific risks. Foster a strong compliance culture and promote ownership of regulatory responsibilities at all levels.
* Audit & Internal Controls: Support internal and external audits. Ensure appropriate controls, documentation, and governance are in place to demonstrate a robust financial crime compliance framework.
* Global Expansion: Work closely with other compliance, product and regulatory leads on designing a global digital assets AML programme and support licensing applications in other markets.
Qualifications
* Experience: 5+ years in compliance, AML, or financial crime roles within a regulated financial institution, fintech, or payments company, with requirement to have experience in digital assets compliance and preferably also in cross‑border payments, remittances, or FX.
* Regulatory Knowledge: Deep understanding of UK regulations and global digital assets AML/CFT trends and standards (FATF, EU, US, etc.).
* SARs/STRs: Experience with Suspicious Activity/Transaction Reports to the authorities.
* AML & Financial Crime Expertise: Experience in transaction monitoring, suspicious activity reporting, and financial crime investigations.
* Stakeholder Management: Ability to engage effectively with regulators, law enforcement, financial institutions, and internal leadership.
* Technology & Compliance: Experience using technology to enhance compliance operations (e.g., transaction monitoring, sanctions screening, automation).
* Analytical & Detail‑Oriented: Strong ability to assess risks, interpret regulations, and implement effective compliance controls.
* Education & Certifications: CAMS, ICA, or equivalent compliance certification as well as certifications on Chainalysis and/or Elliptic preferred.
* Execution‑Oriented & Strong Operationally: You can execute strategies and get things implemented effectively.
* Mission‑Driven: Passionate about financial inclusion and driving positive impact through fintech.
* Highly Organized: Able to manage multiple compliance priorities efficiently.
* Resilient & Adaptable: You can navigate complex regulatory landscapes and provide practical solutions.
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