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- Tasks: Lead compliance for a FinTech entering the UK market and manage the EMI licence process.
- Company: Join an innovative global payments network recognised for its cutting-edge solutions.
- Benefits: Enjoy a dynamic work environment with opportunities for growth and development.
- Why this job: Be at the forefront of compliance in a fast-paced industry, shaping the future of finance.
- Qualifications: 8+ years in financial services compliance, with experience in e-money or payments required.
- Other info: Ideal for those looking to make a significant impact in a scaling start-up.
The predicted salary is between 72000 - 108000 £ per year.
ALEXANDER BARNES has partnered with an international FinTech entering the UK market. This scale-up is recognised as an innovator of global payments networks. We are searching for a senior compliance leader to lead the EMI licence process and build a UK compliance function that’s fit to scale.
Key Responsibilities:
- Lead the full UK EMI licence application process with the FCA
- Build and implement a UK-focused compliance framework from the ground up
- Own all risk assessments, policies, and regulatory reporting
- Act as SMF16/17 and main point of contact with the FCA
- Set up AML/CTF controls, monitoring, and training
- Work closely with legal, product, and ops to align compliance with business priorities
- Hire and lead a lean UK compliance team
Required Experience:
- 8+ years in financial services compliance, with at least 3 in e-money or payments
- Held SMF16 and/or SMF17 for a UK-regulated firm
- Led or played a key role in a successful EMI licence application
- Strong working knowledge of FCA requirements for e-money and payment services
- Hands-on experience with AML frameworks, financial crime prevention, and policy design
- Confident working in a fast-moving, cross-functional environment
Preferred:
- Experience scaling compliance in a start-up or high-growth fintech
- Familiarity with transaction monitoring tools and regulatory tech
- Strong written and verbal communication with senior leadership and regulators
Head of Compliance & MLRO employer: Alexander Barnes
Contact Detail:
Alexander Barnes Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Compliance & MLRO
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the FinTech and compliance sectors. Attend industry events, webinars, or local meetups to connect with others who have experience in EMI licence applications and FCA regulations.
✨Tip Number 2
Stay updated on the latest FCA guidelines and compliance trends. Subscribe to relevant newsletters or follow regulatory bodies on social media to ensure you’re well-informed about any changes that could impact your role.
✨Tip Number 3
Consider reaching out to current or former employees of similar companies. They can provide insights into the company culture and expectations, which can help you tailor your approach during interviews.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss specific examples of your past experiences with EMI licence applications and compliance frameworks. Be ready to demonstrate how your skills align with the company's goals and how you can contribute to their growth.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Compliance & MLRO
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your relevant experience in financial services compliance, particularly in e-money or payments. Emphasise your roles related to EMI licence applications and any leadership positions you've held.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, clearly articulate your understanding of the FCA requirements for e-money and payment services. Discuss how your experience aligns with the responsibilities of leading the UK compliance function and your approach to building a compliance framework.
Showcase Your Leadership Skills: Provide examples of how you've successfully led teams or projects in the past. Highlight your experience in hiring and developing compliance teams, as well as your ability to work cross-functionally with legal, product, and operations teams.
Demonstrate Your Knowledge of AML/CTF: Include specific instances where you've implemented AML/CTF controls or training. This will show your hands-on experience and understanding of financial crime prevention, which is crucial for this role.
How to prepare for a job interview at Alexander Barnes
✨Demonstrate Your Regulatory Knowledge
Make sure to brush up on the FCA requirements for e-money and payment services. Be prepared to discuss how your experience aligns with these regulations, especially in relation to the EMI licence application process.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a senior compliance leader, you'll need to demonstrate your ability to build and lead a team. Share examples of how you've successfully managed teams in the past, particularly in high-growth environments.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills in compliance scenarios. Think about challenges you've faced in previous roles and how you navigated them, especially regarding AML/CTF controls and risk assessments.
✨Align Compliance with Business Goals
Be ready to discuss how you can integrate compliance into the broader business strategy. Highlight your experience working cross-functionally with legal, product, and operations teams to ensure compliance supports business priorities.
