At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead global financial crime policy and risk management for a cutting-edge fintech.
- Company: Join Airwallex, a leading global payments platform valued at US$8 billion.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, diverse team, and opportunities for career growth.
- Other info: Dynamic environment with a focus on innovation and collaboration.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in shaping compliance strategies for a global leader.
- Qualifications: 12+ years in AML and financial crime compliance; strong leadership skills required.
The predicted salary is between 100000 - 130000 € per year.
About Airwallex
Airwallex is the only unified payments and financial platform for global businesses. Powered by our unique combination of proprietary infrastructure and software, we empower over 200,000 businesses worldwide with fully integrated solutions to manage everything from business accounts, payments, spend management and treasury, to embedded finance at a global scale. Proudly founded in Melbourne, we have a team of over 2,000 of the brightest and most innovative people in tech across 26 offices around the globe. Valued at US$8 billion and backed by world‑leading investors, Airwallex is leading the charge in building the global payments and financial platform of the future.
Attributes We Value
We hire successful builders with founder‑like energy who want real impact, accelerated learning, and true ownership. You bring strong role‑related expertise and sharp thinking, and you’re motivated by our mission and operating principles. You move fast with good judgment, dig deep with curiosity, and make decisions from first principles, balancing speed and rigor. You’re humble and collaborative; turn zero‑to‑one ideas into real products, and you “get stuff done” end‑to‑end. You use AI to work smarter and solve problems faster. Here, you’ll tackle complex, high‑visibility problems with exceptional teammates and grow your career as we build the future of global banking.
About the Team
The Financial Crime Compliance (FCC) team at Airwallex is a strategically vital function operating under a clear Three Lines of Defense model. As the independent second line, FCC owns the global AML/CTF program, sanctions framework, risk assessment methodology, and governance infrastructure across all global entities. As Airwallex scales into new markets and deepens its engagement with global regulatory bodies, we are building a world‑class compliance organization capable of managing complex financial crime risks at scale. This is an environment where you will tackle high‑impact challenges, shape global fintech risk strategies, and help establish foundations for long‑term growth.
What you’ll do
- Shape and scale Airwallex’s global financial crime policy and risk‑based program.
- Establish risk appetite and design global risk assessment processes.
- Define governance frameworks, ensuring compliance is a strategic enabler of growth.
- Establish the baseline core compliance standards while guiding regional adaptations.
- Oversee definition of controls across the FCC control framework.
- Strengthen executive risk reporting and oversee risk‑informed product engineering.
- Defend the integrity of the platform before global regulators and institutional partners.
- Work closely with senior leaders across the business to turn complex compliance trends into clear action.
- Shape strategic priorities and initiatives while scaling a high‑performing, multi‑disciplinary global team.
This role is based in the US or EMEA.
Responsibilities:
- Lead the evolution and maintenance of Airwallex's Global Core FCC Policy Framework.
- Lead the definition and oversight of the FCC governance model and risk management framework.
- Define the methodology, thresholds, and data‑scoring models used to identify and mitigate financial crime risks globally.
- Translate complex compliance data, issues, and audit findings into clear, decision‑useful reporting.
- Oversee the strategy for regulatory examination defense and disclosure governance.
- Drive a unified, risk‑aware compliance culture across the organization.
- Support the Global Head of FCC and Chief Regulatory and Compliance Officer in setting and overseeing strategic FCC program priorities.
- Build and lead a high‑performing global second line team of compliance professionals.
Who you are
We're looking for people who meet the minimum requirements for this role.
Minimum qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree in Law, Criminology, Public Policy, Finance, Business Administration, International Relations, or a related analytical field.
- CAMS certification or an equivalent globally recognized compliance credential.
- 12 to 15+ years of experience in AML, Sanctions, and Financial Crime Compliance.
- At least 5+ years leading a global or multi‑jurisdictional compliance policy function at a senior level.
- Proven experience designing enterprise‑wide risk assessment frameworks.
- Demonstrated experience preparing risk papers and leading the defense during regulatory examinations.
- A high‑ownership, pragmatic approach, with excellent written communication skills.
Preferred qualifications:
- Advanced degree such as a Juris Doctor (JD) or Master of Laws (LLM).
- Advanced professional designations such as CAMS‑Audit or CGSS.
- Deep fintech and payments experience.
- Experience partnering directly with Product, Data Science, and Engineering teams.
- Strong data literacy and a clear bias toward digital modernization.
Applicant Safety Policy: Fraud and Third‑Party Recruiters
To protect you from recruitment scams, please be aware that Airwallex will not ask for bank details, sensitive ID numbers, or any form of payment during the application or interview process. All official communication will come from an @airwallex.com email address.
Equal opportunity
Airwallex is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We value diversity and anyone seeking employment at Airwallex is considered based on merit, qualifications, competence and talent.
Global Lead of AML & Sanctions, Governance & Policy employer: Airwallex Pty Ltd.
Airwallex is an exceptional employer that fosters a dynamic and innovative work culture, empowering employees to take ownership of their roles while tackling complex challenges in the fintech space. With a commitment to employee growth, Airwallex offers ample opportunities for professional development and collaboration across a diverse global team, all while being at the forefront of building the future of global banking. Located in vibrant hubs across the US and EMEA, employees benefit from a supportive environment that values diversity and encourages ambitious thinkers to make a real impact.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Global Lead of AML & Sanctions, Governance & Policy
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the industry, attend events, and connect on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching Airwallex and understanding their mission. Be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their goals, especially in AML and sanctions compliance.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your problem-solving skills during interviews. Use examples from your past roles where you tackled complex compliance issues, as this will resonate well with the team at Airwallex.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the Airwallex team.
We think you need these skills to ace Global Lead of AML & Sanctions, Governance & Policy
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the role. Highlight your experience in AML, sanctions, and compliance, and show how it aligns with what we’re looking for at Airwallex.
Showcase Your Achievements:Don’t just list your responsibilities; share specific achievements that demonstrate your impact in previous roles. We love seeing how you’ve tackled challenges and driven results!
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it clear and to the point. Use straightforward language and avoid jargon where possible. We appreciate a well-structured application that’s easy to read.
Apply Through Our Website:Remember to submit your application through our official careers page. It’s the best way to ensure it gets into the right hands and helps us get to know you better!
How to prepare for a job interview at Airwallex Pty Ltd.
✨Know Your AML & Sanctions Inside Out
Before the interview, make sure you’re well-versed in the latest trends and regulations surrounding AML and sanctions. Brush up on key policies and frameworks that Airwallex adheres to, as this will show your genuine interest and expertise in the field.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Senior Director, you'll need to demonstrate your ability to lead a high-performing team. Prepare examples of how you've successfully managed teams in the past, particularly in complex compliance environments. Highlight your experience in building a risk-aware culture and driving strategic initiatives.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that require you to think critically about real-world compliance challenges. Practice articulating your thought process in tackling these issues, especially how you would approach regulatory examinations or audits. This will showcase your problem-solving skills and strategic thinking.
✨Connect with Airwallex's Mission
Familiarise yourself with Airwallex’s mission and values. Be ready to discuss how your personal values align with theirs and how you can contribute to their goal of building a global payments platform. This connection can set you apart from other candidates.
