At a Glance
- Tasks: Analyse risks and manage client relationships in a dynamic law firm environment.
- Company: Join Macfarlanes, a leading law firm known for its collaborative culture.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, professional development, and a supportive team atmosphere.
- Other info: Diverse and inclusive workplace with excellent career growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by ensuring compliance and managing risks for high-profile clients.
- Qualifications: Previous experience in AML and conflicts analysis is preferred.
The predicted salary is between 29700 - 36300 £ per year.
We are recruiting a Business Acceptance Analyst into our Risk Management department. The successful individual will report to the Business Acceptance Manager, who works closely with the Head of Business Acceptance (also the firm’s Deputy Money Laundering Reporting Officer (DMLRO)).
About Macfarlanes: Macfarlanes is a pre-eminent law firm that serves a global client base in Private Capital, Private Wealth, M&A and Disputes. Personal connection, an entrepreneurial spirit and a commitment to excellence are at the heart of our firm. These values drive our ability to deliver exceptional outcomes for our clients. We are big enough to undertake the most complex and demanding mandates yet small enough to know each other well and to be agile, adapting to the needs of our clients. We seek to strengthen the firm by recruiting talented people from all backgrounds who want to build long-lasting and impactful careers with us. Our culture is challenging and supportive, creating an environment where individuals can thrive.
What this means for you: Joining Macfarlanes means being part of a collaborative, approachable team who want you to succeed. You’ll be encouraged to get involved and recognised for your contribution. We take your development seriously. Our learning and development programmes are second to none and are designed to help you strengthen your skills. Above all, you’ll be part of a firm where we all work together as part of a cohesive and supportive team, value your efforts and help you to thrive.
The team: The Risk Management department, led by the firm’s Chief Risk & Legal Officer (who also acts as the firm’s Compliance Officer for Legal Practice (COLP) and Money Laundering Reporting Officer (MLRO)), comprises the Business Acceptance (BA) team and the Risk team. The BA team is overseen by the Head of Business Acceptance and includes the Business Acceptance Manager, a Senior Business Acceptance Analyst, and six Business Acceptance Analysts. The Risk Management department supports the firm and its people in meeting their legal and regulatory obligations, upholding the highest standards of professional conduct and quality. This BA team is primarily responsible for managing the firm’s risks relating to the inception of new clients and matters.
The role: This position will focus primarily on managing the firm’s risks regarding conflicts, clients, and use of client account. Key responsibilities include:
- analysing conflict checks for new matters;
- conducting customer due diligence and risk assessment;
- reviewing sanctions connections and advising the fee earners on legal and reputational risks associated with new business.
This role is integral to preserving the firm’s reputation and ensuring compliance with professional conduct rules. Key duties and responsibilities include:
- conducting conflict searches, identifying, and resolving any conflicts and confidentiality issues, and escalating matters as appropriate;
- identifying and verifying new clients and conducting ongoing monitoring of existing clients and analysing ownership and control and source of wealth/funds to assess AML and sanctions risks;
- determining applicable CDD or EDD requirements, collecting and reviewing relevant CDD material and approving matter openings in Intapp or escalating as necessary;
- conducting screening to identify politically exposed persons (PEPs), sanctions issues and other regulatory and reputational risks;
- conducting and reviewing risk assessments to ensure that the appropriate risk ratings are assigned and escalation procedures are followed in high-risk scenarios;
- assisting the finance team and others with client account queries and ensuring compliance with SRA accounts rules;
- providing practical advice and assistance to fee-earners regarding conflicts, AML and sanctions obligations;
- assisting in developing and the delivery of compliance training programmes to the wider firm including induction training to new joiners on the risk management department’s role and responsibilities;
- assisting with the creation and maintenance of information barriers;
- conducting file audits of partner matter files to review compliance with the firm’s policies, controls and procedures;
- assisting with the maintenance of our client and matter data in Intapp;
- supporting the Business Acceptance Manager and Head of Business Acceptance with ad-hoc projects, as required.
This job description encompasses the main duties of the role but is not exhaustive. Responsibilities may vary from time to time in line with the needs of the department.
The candidate: The successful candidate will ideally have a minimum of 1 year’s previous experience of working as an AML & conflicts analyst at a law firm.
Technical skills:
- working knowledge of paragraphs 6.1 - 6.5 of the SRA’s Codes of Conduct, including detailed analysis and resolution of complex conflicts and confidentiality issues;
- working knowledge of the AML legislative regime (including the 2017 Money Laundering Regulations and the 2019 Amendment Regulations, POCA, the LSAG Guidance) including advising on CDD requirements;
- working knowledge of sanctions regimes, PEPs and other high-risk categories;
- understanding of complex corporate structures, trusts and SPVs;
- ideally a good working knowledge of Intapp Open;
- strong analytical, written and communication skills.
Client service and communication:
- ability to communicate effectively with partners and others in the firm;
- exhibits a sensibly commercial approach and is solutions focused;
- anticipates internal client needs by understanding commercial pressures;
- responds positively to and promotes change;
- demonstrates strong presentation skills and is comfortable presenting.
Application screening: Any offer of employment with us is subject to our pre-employment checks which are conducted by a third-party screening provider. These checks will be initiated with your consent, and your CV will be sent to the provider by us. The screening will include but is not limited to your employment references, professional and academic qualifications including grades and any criminal records. Your offer will be subject to the successful completion of these checks.
Our commitment to inclusion: Inclusion is one of our key priorities and it is a goal we are actively working towards. We believe that an inclusive, forward-thinking culture is intrinsically important and enables us to provide innovative solutions to our clients. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, bringing different perspectives and experiences, making Macfarlanes an exciting and stimulating place to work. We seek to recruit the best candidates, regardless of age, gender, race, ethnicity, social or economic background, religion, disability, sexual orientation or any other characteristic. As part of this commitment, we will ask you certain diversity data questions. We would really appreciate you and/or your recruiter completing these questions when submitting an application to Macfarlanes as this data enables us to measure our progress and identify any actions needed to continue to support an inclusive culture. This data is anonymised to maintain the privacy of applicants. If you have any questions relating to how this data is used, please contact a member of the recruitment team. Should you require any adjustments during the application and/or interview process, please do not hesitate to inform your recruiter or a member of the recruitment team. Please note, the job description is available in other accessible formats (for example, large print). We are a Disability Confident Employer and will offer an interview to disabled applicants who best meet the essential criteria for the role.
Business Acceptance Analyst employer: Macfarlanes
Macfarlanes is an exceptional employer that prioritises professional growth and development through its PA Academy, offering a structured 16-month rotational programme in the vibrant setting of Greater London. With a strong emphasis on teamwork and communication, employees benefit from a supportive work culture that encourages proactive engagement and skill enhancement, making it an ideal place for those seeking meaningful and rewarding careers.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Business Acceptance Analyst
✨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 Macfarlanes. 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 Business Acceptance Analyst
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 Macfarlanes.
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 Macfarlanes'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 Macfarlanes
✨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 Macfarlanes.
✨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 Macfarlanes 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 Macfarlanes 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.
