This is an exciting role for an experienced and dynamic professional interested in joining a renowned law firm as the Head of Onboarding in Manchester. In this senior role, they will assist the GC and play a pivotal part in overseeing the business acceptance at the firm and driving the continuous development of conflict of interest, Anti-Money Laundering, and sanctions policies and implement measures to make processes more efficient and drive technological development. As a key leader, they will ensure the firm’s adherence to legislative and regulatory frameworks concerning client onboarding and relationship maintenance.
Key Responsibilities:
* Providing comprehensive leadership for the BA team, encompassing recruitment, talent management, and performance reviews. Guide and train the team on intricate regulatory and commercial matters related to conflicts of interest, AML, and onboarding issues.
* Managing ongoing monitoring procedures, update firmwide AML, Countering the Financing of Terrorism (CTF), and sanctions risk assessments, conduct regular reviews of AML and CTF policies, controls, and procedures, and ensure independent audits. Review and approve high-risk clients/matters, including those involving Politically Exposed Persons (PEPs).
* Collaborating with the Firm’s General Counsel and Deputy General Counsel, alongside the Firm’s MLROs, to spearhead the work of the team that handles firmwide client and matter onboarding.
* Advising on the implementation of information barriers.
* Overseeing the BA training program, including anti-financial crime training through online courses and in-person sessions.
* Staying abreast of relevant guidance, best practices, and consultations, updating firm policies and procedures as necessary.
* Collaborating with the Compliance Officer for Finance and Administration (COFA) to ensure compliance with the SRA’s Solicitor Accounts Rules, particularly in managing third-party payment risks.
* Acting as an ambassador for the Onboarding team, liaising with key stakeholders to understand both regulatory and commercial business needs.
* Collaborating with the firm’s IT department to manage relationships with technology resource suppliers and review online databases for client due diligence.
* Leading the development and updating of the firm’s business intake software.
* Conducting horizon scanning to identify potential process efficiencies and improvements in the business acceptance process, considering legal and regulatory changes.
Expertise & Knowledge:
* Experience working with large teams and managing the needs of said team.
* Experience working with Partners on complex business intake issues relating to conflicts or financial crime/sanctions.
* Familiarity with the SRA Codes of Conduct and AML / sanctions regulations that apply to the Firm.
* Excellent communication skills and the ability to navigate effectively international and cultural boundaries.
* Excellent influencing and persuasive skills – the ability to win over others in supporting projects and initiatives.
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