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- Tasks: Lead the Financial Crime function and oversee AML/CTF controls.
- Company: Join a well-established UK retail and corporate bank known for regulatory excellence.
- Benefits: Enjoy a hybrid working pattern with competitive salary and career growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Shape strategy, lead a team, and make a real impact in financial crime prevention.
- Qualifications: Current or prior SMF17 approval and strong knowledge of UK AML/CTF laws required.
- Other info: Manage a team of 10 and engage in hands-on oversight.
The predicted salary is between 120000 - 180000 £ per year.
Location: London, UK
Salary: circa £150,000 – £170,000 per annum
Working Pattern: Hybrid (3 days onsite)
I'm working exclusively with a well-established UK retail and corporate bank with a strong market presence and a reputation for regulatory excellence. They are now looking to appoint a Money Laundering Reporting Officer (SMF17) to lead their Financial Crime function and ensure the continued strength of their AML/CTF controls. This role offers a fantastic opportunity for an experienced MLRO—either currently in post or looking to step back into a regulatory function—to shape the strategy, lead the team, and oversee the delivery of a robust second-line Financial Crime framework.
Key Responsibilities- Hold SMF17 responsibility and lead all regulatory engagements (FCA, PRA, law enforcement)
- Oversight of all BAU AML/CTF operations, including SAR reviews, AML escalations, and high-risk customer oversight
- Ongoing horizon scanning and implementation of regulatory changes
- Enhance and deliver the Financial Crime Risk Assessment and Framework Assurance
- Own and oversee Risk Registers, RCAs, Material Risk Assessments and Risk Appetite Statements
- Develop and deliver a second-line Testing and Monitoring programme
- Drive improvements to Policies, Procedures and SOPs – including periodic rewrites and gap analyses
- Lead the annual Financial Crime Framework review and ensure continuous improvement
- Review and advise on new products and pricing proposals from a Financial Crime perspective
- Provide ongoing training to the business on Financial Crime risks and processes
- Oversee TPM processes and manage the Second Line and First Line Mailboxes
- Represent second line in key governance forums, first line surgeries, exits, and ICDD discussions
- Act as point of escalation for all Financial Crime matters within the bank
- Manage a team of 10, including a Deputy MLRO
- Oversight of project resources on initiatives such as FCOM, regulatory implementation, and assurance reviews
- Coaching and development of team members across BAU and strategic deliverables
- Current or prior SMF17 approval is essential
- Proven track record managing 1st and 2nd line Financial Crime operations & advisory teams
- Strong technical knowledge of UK AML/CTF laws, regulations, and best practices
- Experience handling regulatory engagement, risk assessments, and framework oversight
- Ability to operate strategically while still engaging in hands-on oversight where needed
Interested? Please send your CV directly to me at Ross.Imrie@HealyHunt.com or connect via LinkedIn to arrange a confidential discussion.
MLRO (SMF17) employer: Healy Hunt
Contact Detail:
Healy Hunt Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land MLRO (SMF17)
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the financial crime and compliance sectors. Attend industry events or webinars where you can meet current MLROs or those in similar roles. This can provide valuable insights and potentially lead to referrals.
✨Tip Number 2
Stay updated on the latest AML/CTF regulations and best practices. Follow relevant publications, join forums, and engage in discussions to demonstrate your knowledge during interviews and networking opportunities.
✨Tip Number 3
Consider reaching out to recruitment agencies that specialise in financial services. They often have exclusive access to job openings and can provide guidance on how to position yourself effectively for the MLRO role.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss your leadership experience and how you've managed teams in high-pressure environments. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've improved AML/CTF processes in previous roles, as this will be crucial for the interview.
We think you need these skills to ace MLRO (SMF17)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your experience in managing Financial Crime operations and your understanding of UK AML/CTF laws. Use specific examples that demonstrate your leadership skills and regulatory engagement.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that clearly outlines your motivation for applying for the MLRO position. Emphasise your current or prior SMF17 approval and how your background aligns with the key responsibilities listed in the job description.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your application, focus on your proven track record in both first and second line Financial Crime operations. Mention any specific projects or initiatives you have led that relate to AML/CTF controls.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your CV and cover letter for any errors or inconsistencies. A polished application reflects your attention to detail, which is crucial for a role like MLRO.
How to prepare for a job interview at Healy Hunt
✨Understand the Regulatory Landscape
Familiarise yourself with the latest UK AML/CTF laws and regulations. Being able to discuss recent changes and their implications will demonstrate your expertise and commitment to compliance.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As this role involves managing a team, be prepared to share examples of how you've successfully led teams in the past. Highlight your coaching and development strategies to show you can nurture talent within the organisation.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills in real-world situations. Think of specific instances where you've handled financial crime issues or regulatory challenges, and be ready to explain your thought process and outcomes.
✨Demonstrate Strategic Thinking
This position requires a balance of strategic oversight and hands-on involvement. Be ready to discuss how you've developed and implemented frameworks or policies in previous roles, showcasing your ability to think both strategically and operationally.
