Chief Compliance Officer

About us

Wallester is a cutting-edge financial technology company that specializes in providing innovative solutions for businesses seeking to modernize their payment systems. By offering white-label card issuance platforms, seamless integration with existing infrastructure, and comprehensive support for both digital and physical cards, Wallester empowers companies to enhance their financial services and customer experience. Recognized as a leader in the FinTech space, Wallester has earned a reputation for its state-of-the-art technology, security, and scalability. Whether you are a startup or an established enterprise, Wallester delivers flexible, reliable solutions tailored to meet the evolving needs of the digital economy.

About the role

We're looking for a dynamic and strategic Chief Compliance Officer to take the lead in shaping and driving our compliance framework. As our CCO, you’ll be the go-to expert ensuring that our operations as a UK-authorised Electronic Money Institution (EMI) meet all necessary regulatory standards. Based at our UK Head Office and reporting directly to the Board, you'll work closely with cross-functional teams to build a culture of compliance across the business and build our UK company.

Although the role will be based in the new UK Organisation, being part of the Wallester Group means that the CCO will also be working closely with an established EU Payment Institution with 160+ employees. You’ll also step into the crucial role of Money Laundering Reporting Officer (MLRO), where you oversee the development and execution of robust Anti-Money Laundering (AML) and Counter-Terrorist Financing (CTF) systems and controls. This is a hands-on, high-impact role where your work will directly shape the way we protect our customers, partners, and our company.

This position is part of our newly forming UK team, marking an exciting chapter in our growth. As one of the first team members on the ground, you’ll have a unique opportunity to shape our presence in the UK, contribute to building the local culture, and play a key role in establishing our operations. It’s a chance to be part of something new, with the backing and support of our established global team.

Responsibilities

• Ensure regulatory compliance, staying up to date with regulatory developments and aligning internal procedures with FCA requirements for Authorised EMIs. This includes responsibility for ensuring effective governance is in place for our outsourced operations.
• Develop and maintain AML/CTF systems and controls, ensuring a risk-based approach with regular assessments and policy updates.
• Act as MLRO, overseeing internal SAR processes, filing external reports to the NCA, and liaising with law enforcement agencies.
• Oversee safeguarding and prudential compliance, ensuring client funds are properly protected and regulatory standards are met.
• Lead staff training programs, delivering up-to-date AML/CTF and compliance training tailored to roles and responsibilities.
• Manage the Compliance Monitoring Programme, reviewing and updating policies and procedures while addressing any issues or gaps.
• Provide reporting to the Board and FCA, including compliance updates, timely regulatory submissions, and maintaining correct authorisations.
• Support governance and risk management, monitoring outsourced arrangements, working with Internal Audit, and contributing to risk frameworks.

Requirements

• The ideal candidate will be able to demonstrate pragmatic best practice application of EMR/PSR compliance, Prudential Compliance and Financial Crime.
• Minimum five years of experience in financial crime and/or compliance business functions within an FCA-authorised Payment Institution or EMI.
• Experience in developing and administering internal controls and processes, particularly ensuring effective governance arrangements for outsourced services.
• Ability to work collaboratively with a broad range of business functions, with an emphasis on senior management, is essential.
• A demonstrated ability to work with diverse groups of people is required.
• A willingness to act as MLRO and take personal legal responsibility for the prevention of financial crime is essential.

Company offers

• 30 days holiday (pro rata), plus UK Bank and Public Holidays.
• Private Medical cover, including Family if applicable (after Probation Period).
• Pension scheme (after 3 months).
• Quarterly Team-Buildings.
• Corporate events: regular employee gatherings (Summer Days, Winter Gala).
• Work Anniversary Celebrations.
• Affiliate program for employees.
• Referral program for employees.