At a Glance
- Tasks: Support compliance processes and assist with client onboarding in a dynamic legal environment.
- Company: Join a leading professional services firm known for its supportive and collaborative culture.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, hybrid working, generous leave, and strong pension contributions.
- Other info: Gain valuable experience with ongoing training and excellent career development opportunities.
- Why this job: Kick-start your career in compliance while making a real impact in a respected firm.
- Qualifications: Relevant degree and strong organisational skills; eagerness to learn is key.
The predicted salary is between 25000 - 32000 £ per year.
MCS is supporting a leading professional services firm in Belfast to recruit a Compliance Assistant to join their Risk & Compliance team.
This is an excellent opportunity for a graduate or early-career professional to join a highly regarded professional services environment and kick-start a career within Risk & Compliance. The successful candidate will work closely with the Head of Risk & Compliance, supporting the firm's onboarding, anti-money laundering, regulatory compliance, file management and quality assurance functions while gaining valuable experience in a regulated legal environment.
To support the Head of Risk & Compliance in the implementation and continuous operation of the firm's anti-money laundering, financial crime, regulatory, onboarding, file management and quality assurance frameworks, ensuring compliance and efficient service delivery. The role is responsible for applying the firm's policies and procedures, maintaining accurate records, escalating issues appropriately and supporting an efficient and reliable compliance service to fee earners and the wider firm.
This organisation is highly regarded within the professional services sector and is known for its supportive, collaborative and high-performing culture. You will be joining a structured compliance function that values accuracy, professionalism and continuous improvement, while offering ongoing training, mentoring and career development opportunities.
Package/Benefits
- Competitive salary DOE
- Hybrid working after a successful probationary period
- 23 days annual leave + 13 statutory days
- Strong pension contribution
- Private medical insurance
- Life assurance
- Income protection
- Cycle to work scheme
- Monday - Friday working pattern
The Role
- Assist with processing new client and reactivation requests in line with AML and onboarding requirements
- Prepare and review engagement letters and onboarding documentation
- Support fee earners and clients with KYC, CDD and onboarding requirements
- Conduct client due diligence, sanctions screening, PEP checks and adverse media searches
- Support AML, financial crime and risk assessment processes across the firm
- Assist with ongoing CDD/KYC refresh activity and monitoring requirements
- Support source of funds and source of wealth reviews
- Identify and escalate potential compliance, AML, onboarding and file management risks
- Assist with compliance investigations, remediation projects and audit responses
- Support file opening, file closing, archiving, retention, retrieval and destruction processes
- Carry out file reviews, control checks and quality assurance tasks
- Support compliance with Lexcel, ISO and other quality assurance frameworks
- Maintain compliance records, registers and management information
- Support internal and external audits, compliance monitoring and continuous improvement activities
Other ad hoc duties may be required.
The Person
Essential Criteria
- Relevant degree in Law, Business Studies or a related discipline
- Highly organised with strong attention to detail
- Strong written and verbal communication skills
- Strong IT skills, including Microsoft Office
- Proactive with the ability to manage workload independently
- Eagerness to learn and develop a career within compliance, risk or regulatory functions
Desirable Criteria
- Exposure to, or awareness of, client onboarding or new business intake processes
- Understanding of financial crime, AML, risk management or regulatory requirements
- Experience gained through placement, internship, part-time work or employment within a legal, financial services or professional services environment
- Knowledge of compliance processes within a regulated environment
If you have a disability, which means you require assistance at any stage of the recruitment process, please contact us directly to discuss.
Graduate Compliance Assistant JBLE1_NI in Belfast employer: MCS Group
MCS is an exceptional employer, offering graduates a unique opportunity to launch their careers in a supportive and collaborative professional services environment in Belfast. With a strong focus on employee development, the firm provides ongoing training, mentoring, and a comprehensive benefits package, including hybrid working options and a robust pension scheme, ensuring that you thrive both personally and professionally.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Graduate Compliance Assistant JBLE1_NI in Belfast
✨Get Involved in Compliance Communities
Join local compliance or risk management networks and communities, like the International Compliance Association, where you can connect with professionals already in the field. These networks often have events and webinars that can help you learn and meet potential employers. Don’t be shy, ask questions and show your eagerness to learn!
✨Attend Industry Conferences
Look out for compliance and risk management conferences in your area or even virtual ones. These are great opportunities to meet industry leaders and learn about the latest trends. Plus, you never know when you’ll bump into someone from MCS Group who might be looking for fresh talent like you!
✨Leverage Internship Opportunities
As you’re aiming for an entry-level position, keep an eye on internship openings. Even a short internship can give you valuable exposure and connections in compliance-risk, so apply widely! We recommend checking out our website for any opportunities at MCS Group that might inspire you.
✨Showcase Your Knowledge
Create a blog or use social media to share your insights about compliance and risk topics. This not only enhances your visibility but also shows potential employers, like MCS Group, that you’re passionate and knowledgeable about the field. It could be the thing that sets you apart from other candidates!
We think you need these skills to ace Graduate Compliance Assistant JBLE1_NI in Belfast
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Attention to Detail:In the compliance-risk field, it's all about catching the little things. Make sure your application materials are free from typos or inconsistencies. Your CV should reflect your ability to spot errors and present information clearly—this is a crucial skill in compliance!
Highlight Relevant Coursework or Certifications:If you’ve taken any courses related to risk assessment or compliance, be sure to mention them. Even entry-level roles appreciate a solid foundation in the principles that guide the industry. Certificates, internships, or projects related to compliance will really make you stand out!
Keep It Professional, Yet Accessible:While we’re all for being a bit informal at times, remember that compliance-risk is a serious field. Your cover letter should reflect your enthusiasm and willingness to learn while maintaining a professional tone. Don’t just say you’re keen on the job—show it with clear reasons why you want to join MCS Group.
Tailor Your Application to Fit the Role:When applying for an entry-level position, specifically align your skills and experiences with the job description for Graduate Compliance Assistant JBLE1_NI at MCS Group. Talk about why you’re interested in compliance-risk and how your background, even if it’s academic, makes you a good fit!
How to prepare for a job interview at MCS Group
✨Know Your Compliance Basics
Brush up on the fundamental concepts of compliance and risk management. You might be asked to explain key regulations or compliance frameworks relevant to the role at MCS Group. Having a clear understanding will show your enthusiasm and preparedness for the entry-level position.
✨Get Familiar with Specific Tools
Be prepared to discuss any compliance software or tools you’ve encountered, even through coursework. Entry-level roles often use systems like SAP GRC or similar. If you can show familiarity or even a basic understanding of these tools, it’ll give you an edge in the interview.
✨Show Your Analytical Skills
Expect some scenario-based questions where you’ll have to analyse risk situations. Practice breaking down problems and articulating your thought process clearly. This is a key part of working in compliance and will demonstrate that you’re ready to tackle real-world issues at MCS Group.
✨Highlight Your Willingness to Learn
As this is an entry-level position, your eagerness to develop and grow is crucial. Discuss any relevant courses or projects you’ve done that show your commitment to improving your skills in compliance and risk management. Show them you’re keen to soak up knowledge and contribute at MCS Group!
