At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead compliance and AML frameworks, ensuring adherence to regulations and managing risks.
- Company: Dynamic bank in the heart of London with a focus on compliance and financial crime prevention.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, career development opportunities, and a chance to make a real impact.
- Other info: Join a supportive team and lead initiatives that drive operational resilience and data protection.
- Why this job: Shape the future of banking compliance and protect against financial crime in a pivotal role.
- Qualifications: Extensive UK banking experience and strong knowledge of compliance regulations required.
The predicted salary is between 130000 - 150000 € per year.
City of London
Permanent
£130,000 - £150,000
cer Financial are working alongside a bank, who are based in the City of London. They are seeking a Head of Compliance and MLRO / DPO (SMF16 and SMF17) to work with them on a permanent basis.
The responsibilities of the candidate will include:
- Develop and maintain the Bank’s Compliance & Financial Crime Framework in line with FCA, PRA, and international standards (e.g. FATF).
- Ensure adherence to JMLSG guidance, sanctions regimes (OFAC, EU, HMT), and applicable laws.
- Act as primary liaison with regulators (FCA, PRA, NCA).
- Advise Senior Management on regulatory changes and business impact.
- Lead horizon scanning and maintain the Compliance Risk Appetite Statement.
- Ensure robust frameworks for TCF, conduct risk, and GDPR compliance.
- Act as MLRO, ensuring full AML/CTF compliance.
- Oversee AML frameworks (CDD, EDD, transaction monitoring, sanctions/PEP screening, SARs).
- Ensure timely SAR submissions to the NCA.
- Oversee AML risk assessments and remediation.
- Deliver AML training and awareness.
- Develop and maintain the Compliance Monitoring Plan (CMP).
- Conduct risk assessments on correspondent banking, high-risk clients, and transactions.
- Oversee transaction monitoring systems and risk escalation.
- Serve as Data Protection Officer (UK GDPR, DPA 2018).
- Act as main contact with the ICO.
- Oversee DPIAs, RoPA, DSARs, and breach reporting.
- Ensure governance over third-party data processors.
- Deliver data protection training and awareness.
- Present compliance, AML, financial crime, and data protection reports to committees and Board.
- Escalate material risks and breaches.
- Prepare Annual MLRO and Data Protection Reports.
- Support SMCR requirements.
- Lead, mentor, and develop the Compliance team.
- Support recruitment, onboarding, and performance management.
- Ensure adherence to internal policies, training, and operational resilience.
The successful candidate:
- Extensive UK banking experience in compliance, AML, and financial crime risk.
- Strong knowledge of FCA/PRA rules, AML/CTF, GDPR, and SMCR.
- Proven experience managing regulatory engagement, audits, and inspections.
- Experience in Private Banking, Correspondent Banking, or Trade Finance.
- AML certification (e.g. CAMS, ICA Diploma).
- Knowledge of operational resilience, ESG, and emerging regulations.
- Data protection certification (e.g. CIPP/E, CIPM).
Head of Compliance and MLRO - DPO (SMF16 and SMF17) in London employer: cer Financial
As a leading bank located in the heart of the City of London, we pride ourselves on fostering a dynamic and inclusive work culture that prioritises employee growth and development. Our commitment to compliance and financial integrity is matched by our dedication to providing competitive salaries, comprehensive benefits, and opportunities for professional advancement, making us an exceptional employer for those seeking a meaningful career in the financial sector.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Compliance and MLRO - DPO (SMF16 and SMF17) in London
✨Network Like a Pro
Get out there and connect with people in the compliance and financial crime sectors. Attend industry events, webinars, or even local meet-ups. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you!
✨Show Off Your Expertise
When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, make sure to highlight your extensive UK banking experience and knowledge of FCA/PRA rules. Share specific examples of how you've tackled compliance challenges in the past – it’ll show them you mean business!
✨Tailor Your Approach
Every bank has its own culture and needs, so do a bit of homework before interviews. Understand their compliance framework and be ready to discuss how your skills align with their goals. This will help you stand out as the perfect fit for the role.
✨Apply Through Our Website
Don’t forget to check out our website for the latest job openings! Applying directly through us not only gives you access to exclusive roles but also shows your commitment to finding the right position in compliance and financial crime.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Compliance and MLRO - DPO (SMF16 and SMF17) in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Head of Compliance and MLRO role. Highlight your extensive UK banking experience, especially in compliance and AML. We want to see how your skills align with the job description, so don’t hold back!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re the perfect fit for this role. Mention specific experiences that relate to the responsibilities listed, like your knowledge of FCA/PRA rules or your experience with regulatory engagement.
Showcase Your Certifications:Don’t forget to mention your AML and data protection certifications! Whether it’s CAMS, ICA Diploma, CIPP/E, or CIPM, we want to see them. These qualifications are key to demonstrating your expertise in compliance and data protection.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother application process. It helps us keep track of your application and ensures you don’t miss any important updates. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at cer Financial
✨Know Your Regulations Inside Out
Make sure you’re well-versed in FCA, PRA, and AML regulations. Brush up on the latest changes and how they impact the banking sector. Being able to discuss these confidently will show that you’re not just familiar with the rules but also understand their practical implications.
✨Prepare Real-Life Examples
Think of specific instances where you've successfully managed compliance issues or led a team through regulatory changes. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers. This will help you demonstrate your experience effectively and make a lasting impression.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Head of Compliance, you’ll need to lead and mentor a team. Be ready to discuss your leadership style and how you’ve developed others in previous roles. Highlight any training programmes you’ve implemented or how you’ve fostered a culture of compliance within your teams.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the bank’s current compliance challenges or their approach to emerging regulations. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if the company aligns with your values and career goals.
