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- Tasks: Lead compliance and financial crime prevention for a UK bank, ensuring regulatory adherence.
- Company: Join a purpose-driven banking environment focused on integrity and risk management.
- Benefits: Enjoy private healthcare, pension contributions, and professional development support.
- Why this job: Make a strategic impact at senior levels while cultivating a strong compliance culture.
- Qualifications: Requires a degree and 10 years of senior compliance experience in UK banking.
- Other info: Ideal for those with SMF 16/17 experience and strong leadership skills.
The predicted salary is between 72000 - 108000 £ per year.
Head of Compliance & MLRO (SMF 16 & SMF 17)- UK
Job Title: Head of Compliance & MLRO (SMF 16 & SMF 17)- UK
Location: United Kingdom
Job Purpose:
The Head of Compliance & MLRO is the senior manager accountable for Compliance Oversight (SMF 16) and Money Laundering Reporting (SMF 17) under the FCA/PRA’s Senior Managers & Certification Regime. The role provides independent assurance to the Board and Senior Management that the Bank operates in full compliance with applicable regulatory requirements, with a key focus on financial crime prevention. The role reports to the Chief Risk Officer, with direct escalation rights to the Chair of the Board Risk Committee.
Key Responsibilities:
- Maintain and oversee the Bank’s Compliance and Financial Crime Frameworks, including the annual Compliance Monitoring Plan.
- Ensure full adherence to FCA, PRA, JMLSG, POCA, MLR 2022, and related UK regulations.
- Act as the primary point of contact with the FCA, PRA, NCA, and law enforcement bodies for compliance and AML matters.
- Serve as the registered MLRO, responsible for receiving, investigating, and reporting Suspicious Activity Reports (SARs).
- Oversee and continuously improve systems and controls for AML, CDD, EDD, sanctions screening, transaction monitoring, and fraud prevention.
- Provide regulatory advice across the business and ensure compliance input into new products, services, and promotions.
- Lead the delivery of regular Compliance and AML training for staff and the Board.
- Present regular Compliance and Financial Crime MI and reports to the Board Risk Committee.
- Lead and develop the Compliance and Financial Crime team, ensuring appropriate SMCR certifications and performance standards.
- Cultivate a strong compliance culture and embed conduct, risk awareness, and customer fairness throughout the Bank.
Qualifications and Experience:
- Bachelor’s degree or higher in Law, Finance, Business, or related discipline.
- Minimum of 10 years’ senior-level experience in compliance and financial crime within the UK banking or financial services sector.
- In-depth knowledge of the FCA Handbook (e.g. SYSC, COND, COBS), PRA Rulebook, UK AML regulations, and Financial Crime legislation.
- Previous or current holder of SMF 16 and/or SMF 17 is strongly preferred.
- Professional certification (e.g. ICA, CAMS, ACAMS, CISI) is essential.
- Legal or accountancy qualification is desirable but not mandatory.
- Strong communication, leadership, and stakeholder management skills.
- Proven ability to work under pressure and deliver clear, decisive compliance advice to Board and senior leadership.
What the role Offers.
- Strategic influence at senior executive and Board levels
- Opportunity to build and lead a high-performing Compliance function
- Private healthcare, pension contributions, and professional development support
- A purpose-driven banking environment focused on compliance, risk management, and integrity
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Head of Compliance & MLRO (SMF 16 & SMF 17)- UK employer: Antal International Network
Contact Detail:
Antal International Network Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Compliance & MLRO (SMF 16 & SMF 17)- UK
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the compliance and financial crime sectors. Attend industry events, webinars, or local meetups to connect with others who may have insights or opportunities related to the Head of Compliance & MLRO role.
✨Tip Number 2
Stay updated on the latest regulatory changes and trends in compliance and financial crime prevention. This knowledge will not only help you in interviews but also demonstrate your commitment to the field.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss specific examples from your past experience that showcase your leadership skills and ability to manage compliance frameworks effectively. Highlight any successful initiatives you've led in previous roles.
✨Tip Number 4
Familiarise yourself with StudySmarter's values and mission. Understanding our culture will help you align your responses during interviews and show how you can contribute to our compliance objectives.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Compliance & MLRO (SMF 16 & SMF 17)- UK
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your relevant experience in compliance and financial crime, particularly within the UK banking sector. Emphasise your knowledge of FCA and PRA regulations, as well as any previous roles as SMF 16 or SMF 17.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter: In your cover letter, clearly articulate your understanding of the role and its responsibilities. Discuss how your background aligns with the key requirements, such as leading compliance teams and managing regulatory relationships.
Showcase Leadership Skills: Demonstrate your leadership capabilities by providing examples of how you've successfully led compliance initiatives or teams in the past. Highlight your ability to influence at senior levels and cultivate a strong compliance culture.
Highlight Relevant Qualifications: Ensure you mention your professional certifications (e.g., ICA, CAMS) prominently in your application. If you have a legal or accountancy qualification, include that as well, even if it's not mandatory.
How to prepare for a job interview at Antal International Network
✨Know Your Regulations
Make sure you have a solid understanding of the FCA, PRA, and UK AML regulations. Be prepared to discuss how these regulations impact the role and how you would ensure compliance within the bank.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Skills
As a Head of Compliance, you'll need to showcase your leadership abilities. Prepare examples of how you've led teams in the past, particularly in high-pressure situations, and how you foster a strong compliance culture.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving skills in compliance matters. Think about past experiences where you had to make tough decisions regarding compliance and financial crime prevention.
✨Showcase Communication Skills
Effective communication is key in this role. Be ready to explain complex compliance issues in simple terms, as you may need to present to the Board or train staff. Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and confidently.
