At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead AML compliance efforts and mitigate financial crime risks in a dynamic banking environment.
- Company: Join Banking Circle, a tech-enabled bank revolutionising global payments.
- Benefits: Hybrid work model, competitive salary, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Work with a diverse team across 11 countries in an inclusive culture.
- Why this job: Shape the future of financial infrastructure while making a real impact on compliance.
- Qualifications: Proven experience in financial crime leadership and deep expertise in AML/CTF.
The predicted salary is between 72000 - 88000 £ per year.
Are you an experienced MLRO (SMF17), ready to take on your new challenge? Banking Circle is a fully licensed, technology enabled bank processing over €1 trillion in payments every year - and growing. We exist to power the global economy’s most ambitious payments businesses with infrastructure that is fast, modern, and engineered for scale. Today, more than 800 people across 11 countries work together as one global team. We move fast, we think boldly, and we build with intent - because our clients depend on us to keep pace with the world’s most dynamic payments flows. We are expanding globally, scaling our capabilities, and deepening our impact, so if you want to shape the future of financial infrastructure - this is the place.
As our new UK MLRO you will be responsible for anticipating, identifying and assessing the AML Compliance risks (as defined in the Compliance Policy) within the UK branch. Leading a high performing UK MLRO office, you will lead with integrity, risk awareness and complete professionalism to ensure a strong focus on conduct and culture in a scaling institution. The UK MLRO should act as an adviser in compliance matters within the organisation demonstrating expertise in UK Anti-Financial Crime matters, whilst assessing the current AML framework, identify gaps, and contribute to building a robust, data-led and operationally effective strategy covering payments and correspondent banking activity across the Bank and its subsidiaries.
Although we offer a hybrid work model for our employees to allow for flexibility and productivity, we will expect the UK MLRO to spend most of your time in the office to build community and efficiency in the team and organisation.
Exciting work is waiting for you:
- Identify, assess, and mitigate financial crime risks across money laundering, terrorism financing, and proliferation financing.
- Ensure all FinCrime related external reporting obligations are met.
- Identification of the main legislative and regulatory standards to which Banking Circle is subject to in respect of anti-Financial Crime within the UK market.
- Work cross-functionally and cross-regionally to design and operate controls, leveraging Global solutions to minimise duplication and local burden.
- Assisting and advising the Chief Compliance Officer, UK Branch Committee and Authorised Management on issues of UK FinCrime compliance.
- Owning communications with Supervisory Authorities or other regulators on compliance matters, in particular with respect to Money Laundering and Terrorism financing issues.
We're looking for a proven UK financial crime leader who has held an SMF17 function and brings deep expertise in correspondent banking, payments, AML/CTF, sanctions and fraud risk. You'll have a track record of making senior advisory and assurance decisions, engaging confidently with regulators, and navigating complex financial crime challenges. Experience in digital assets, including crypto asset financial promotions and AML/CTF regulation, is highly desirable.
The role requires an individual who can work cohesively with stakeholders and energize impacted teams to create a well-structured and professional environment to ensure risks are mitigated and deliverables are consistently met throughout the year. It is therefore essential that you can lead by example, demonstrate SME qualities and further enhance the brand of the Bank internally and externally. You will also need strong stakeholder management skills both internally and externally given the need to work with senior colleagues within the business and external stakeholders such as external audit, industry peers and regulators.
Banking Circle is an international company. Our internal workforce consists of over 50 nationalities, and our clients and partners are located all over the globe. Therefore, our company language is English. We are proud to be an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, colour, age, religion, sexual orientation, national origin or any other characteristic protected under federal, state or local laws, regulations and ordinances.
To learn more about Banking Circle, visit us at www.bankingcircle.com
UK MLRO (SMF17) employer: Banking Circle
Banking Circle is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant and inclusive work culture in the heart of London. With a strong focus on employee growth and innovation, we empower our Financial Risk Managers to make impactful contributions while enjoying a hybrid work model that promotes flexibility. Join our diverse team of over 800 professionals from more than 50 nationalities, where you will have the opportunity to shape the future of financial infrastructure and advance your career in a dynamic, technology-driven environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land UK MLRO (SMF17)
✨Tap into Campus Networks
If you're still in uni, don’t forget to engage with your campus's career services and attend finance-related events. Banks often do presentations and recruitment drives on campus, so put yourself out there and make use of these opportunities to show off your passion for the field.
✨Get Certified
Consider pursuing relevant certifications like the CFA or ACCA while you’re job hunting. They not only beef up your CV but also connect you with professional bodies which can lead to networking opportunities and even job openings in banking and financial services.
✨Connect on Professional Platforms
Join finance-focused groups on platforms like LinkedIn and engage in discussions. This can really help you stand out from the crowd, allowing potential employers to see your knowledge and interest in industry trends. Plus, you might stumble upon job postings shared exclusively within the group.
✨Apply Directly and Be Proactive
Don’t shy away from reaching out directly to firms like Banking Circle. Use their websites and apply through them, but also consider following up with a polite email to express your enthusiasm. Being proactive can make a huge difference in getting noticed in the competitive financial services sector.
We think you need these skills to ace UK MLRO (SMF17)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Numbers!:In the banking and financial services world, quantifiable achievements are key. Make sure your CV highlights your grades in relevant subjects, any financial certifications you hold, and specific projects where you've delivered measurable results. Employers love to see how your skills translate into real-world success.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Role:When applying for a full-time position, your cover letter should make a direct connection between your experience and the job description. Don't just state your enthusiasm for finance—dive into how your background in banking or financial analysis sets you apart. Let your passion shine through while being specific about what you can bring to Banking Circle.
Include Relevant Financial Software Experience:If you've worked with financial modelling tools or software like Excel, SAP, or specific analytical tools during your studies or internships, bring that up! Highlighting your proficiency can really make your application pop and show you're ready to hit the ground running in a full-time role.
Research and Reflect:Before hitting that 'apply' button on Banking Circle's website, do a little digging. Look up their recent projects, values, and culture. Reflecting their ethos in your application can make a huge difference and show you’re genuinely interested in being part of the team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Banking Circle
✨Brush Up on Financial Analysis Skills
Make sure you're well-versed in financial concepts and analytical techniques relevant to banking and financial services. Get comfortable with tools like Excel for modelling or financial forecasting, as technical questions in this area are common during interviews with Banking Circle.
✨Prepare for Case Studies
Expect to tackle case studies that demonstrate your problem-solving skills in real-world banking scenarios. Familiarise yourself with the types of problems you might face—think risk assessments or investment evaluations—and be ready to articulate your thought process clearly.
✨Show Your Passion for Finance
Since this is a full-time position, employers at Banking Circle will be keen to see your genuine interest in finance. Be prepared to discuss recent industry trends or news articles that excite you, showcasing your enthusiasm and engagement with the field.
✨Network with Industry Professionals
Before your interview, reach out to current or former Banking Circle employees on platforms like LinkedIn. They'll offer unique insights into the company's culture and the interview process, which can give us a delightful edge in showcasing a good fit for the team.
