At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead financial crime strategy and oversee compliance across digital and retail channels.
- Company: Join a leading UK non-FS business with a strong focus on compliance.
- Benefits: Hybrid working arrangements and the chance to shape compliance strategy.
- Other info: Exceptional opportunity for career growth in a market-leading organisation.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in financial crime prevention using cutting-edge technology.
- Qualifications: Senior-level experience in financial crime and deep knowledge of AML/CTF regulations.
The predicted salary is between 70000 - 90000 £ per year.
MERJE is recruiting for a Financial Crime Director to join a leading UK non-FS business. This senior leadership position requires deep expertise in financial crime regulation, AML/CTF compliance, and fraud risk management within a complex multi-channel environment.
Location: North West - Hybrid working arrangements available
The Role
The Financial Crime Director will lead the Group's financial crime strategy, operating as a genuine second line of defence. This role oversees AML, CTF, fraud prevention, and sanctions compliance across digital and retail channels.
Key Responsibilities of the Financial Crime Director
- Design and maintain the AML/CTF framework and financial crime risk assessments, ensuring full alignment with regulatory requirements and applicable legislation.
- Oversee SAR filing processes including DAML consent decisions, acting as MLRO or overseeing the MLRO function to meet all statutory obligations.
- Provide second line oversight and challenge to first line operations, setting compliance requirements and monitoring performance against financial crime KPI's.
- Represent the organisation at external stakeholder forums and maintain strong regulatory relationships.
- Lead high-risk customer escalations, ensuring robust decision-making frameworks are embedded throughout the business.
Required knowledge and experience for the Financial Crime Director role
- Substantial senior-level experience within financial crime in a regulated financial services environment.
- Deep technical knowledge of AML/CTF legislation, JMLSG guidance, Proceeds of Crime Act, and ECCTA fraud obligations.
- Demonstrable experience managing SAR filing, DAML consent processes, and MLRO responsibilities with proven regulatory credibility.
- Track record of leading compliance or financial crime teams at Director level with strong analytical and communication capabilities.
- Experience designing fraud risk frameworks and knowledge of emerging technologies including AI and automation for compliance efficiency.
This is an exceptional opportunity for an experienced financial crime professional to join a market-leading organisation in a strategically important role. The Financial Crime Director position offers the chance to shape compliance strategy at the highest level whilst working with cutting-edge technology and talented teams.
Applicants must be located and eligible to work in the UK without sponsorship.
Please note, should feedback not be received within 28 days, unfortunately your application has been unsuccessful. In applying for this role, you may be registered on our database so we can contact you about suitable opportunities in future. Your data will be managed in accordance with our Privacy Policy, which can be found on our website.
Financial Crime Director employer: MERJE
MERJE is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work culture that prioritises innovation and collaboration in the North West. With hybrid working arrangements, employees enjoy a flexible environment that fosters professional growth and development, particularly in the critical area of financial crime compliance. Joining MERJE means being part of a market-leading organisation where your expertise will directly influence strategic decisions and shape the future of compliance in a rapidly evolving landscape.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Financial Crime Director
✨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 MERJE. 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 Financial Crime Director
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 MERJE.
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 MERJE'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 MERJE
✨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 MERJE.
✨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 MERJE 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 MERJE 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.
