At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a high-performing team to shape financial crime strategy and compliance.
- Company: Elite international law firm with a focus on risk and compliance.
- Benefits: Hybrid work model, competitive salary, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Engage with senior stakeholders and regulators across multiple offices.
- Why this job: Make a significant impact in a leadership role within a global environment.
- Qualifications: 8+ years in financial crime, strong leadership, and technical expertise required.
The predicted salary is between 100000 - 112000 £ per year.
An elite international law firm is seeking a senior financial crime leader to head up its Financial Crime and Sanctions function within a global onboarding team. This is a high-impact leadership role, offering the opportunity to shape strategy, influence senior stakeholders, and drive best-in-class compliance across a complex, multi-jurisdictional environment.
This role sits at the heart of the firm’s risk and compliance infrastructure, leading a sizeable Financial Crime and Sanctions team and setting the strategic direction across AML, sanctions, and broader financial crime frameworks. You will play a critical role in evolving the firm’s approach to regulatory compliance while ensuring efficient, commercially aware decision-making.
Working closely with the General Counsel, MLRO, and senior onboarding leadership, you will operate as a key decision-maker on complex issues. The role offers significant exposure across the firm’s UK and international offices, requiring visible leadership and regular engagement with senior stakeholders and regulators.
Key Responsibilities:- Lead, motivate and develop a high-performing Financial Crime and Sanctions team
- Drive the firm’s response to an evolving global regulatory landscape
- Oversee financial crime strategy, policy development, and implementation
- Act as a senior decision-maker on complex client and matter risk issues
- Collaborate closely with GC, MLRO and onboarding leadership
- Provide visible leadership across multiple offices, building strong stakeholder relationships
- Represent the function internally and externally, including engagement with regulators
- Minimum 8 years’ experience in financial crime within a law firm environment
- Proven leadership and team management experience within a legal or professional services setting
- Strong technical expertise across AML, sanctions and broader financial crime frameworks
- Experience operating within a complex, international and regulated environment
- Ability to influence at senior level and act as a trusted advisor to leadership
- Commercially minded with strong judgement and decision-making capability
Head of Financial Crime in London employer: MRA Search
MRA Search is an exceptional employer that values the expertise of its legal team, offering a dynamic work environment in the heart of central London. With a strong focus on employee growth and development, the company provides ample opportunities for professional advancement while promoting a collaborative culture that encourages innovation and engagement. The hybrid working model ensures flexibility, allowing employees to balance their professional and personal lives effectively.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Financial Crime in London
✨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 MRA Search. 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 Head of Financial Crime in London
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 MRA Search.
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 MRA Search'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 MRA Search
✨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 MRA Search.
✨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 MRA Search 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 MRA Search 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.
