Money Laundering Risk Officer | UK

We are searching for highly motivated, independent Money Laundering Risk Officer (MLRO) to play a key role in ensuring that the EMI complies with UK anti-money laundering (AML) regulations and to effectively manage the associated risks. The MLRO will be responsible for developing risk assessment methodologies, monitoring compliance with AML/CTF laws, and ensuring that the institution’s policies and procedures are both effective and up-to-date. Working closely with compliance, legal, and operational teams, the MLRO shall mitigate risks of financial crime and ensure compliance with FCA standards and other UK regulations.

Key Responsibilities

1. Risk Assessment and Management
   Develop and implement AML/CTF risk assessment frameworks to identify and assess money laundering risks across various customer profiles, products, and delivery channels.
   Conduct periodic AML risk assessments to ensure that controls are adequate, effective, and proportionate to identified risks.
   Monitor and review high-risk customer segments, transactions, and geographies, implementing tailored mitigation strategies as needed.
2. Transaction Monitoring and Suspicious Activity Reporting
   Oversee the automated and manual monitoring of transactions, ensuring effective controls are in place to detect and flag unusual or suspicious activities.
   Review flagged transactions and analyze patterns to assess potential money laundering risks, coordinating with Head of Compliance for escalation when necessary.
   Prepare and file Suspicious Activity Reports (SARs) with the National Crime Agency (NCA) where warranted, ensuring accuracy and timeliness in line with regulatory requirements.
3. Policy and Procedure Development
   Develop and maintain AML/CTF policies and procedures in line with FCA guidelines, the Money Laundering Regulations, and best practices for financial crime prevention.
   Ensure policies are consistently applied across the institution, making updates as necessary to reflect regulatory changes or shifts in the institution’s risk profile.
   Collaborate with senior management to integrate AML/CTF controls into broader risk management policies.
4. Training and Awareness
   Develop and deliver AML training programs for employees, ensuring that staff are equipped to identify and manage money laundering risks effectively.
   Regularly update staff on AML trends, regulatory changes, and internal policy modifications.
   Provide one-on-one coaching for high-risk teams, such as sales and customer service, to strengthen their understanding of AML/CTF requirements.
5. Internal Reporting and Escalation
   Report to senior management and the Board on AML/CTF risks, emerging threats, and compliance status, providing detailed metrics and recommendations.
   Serve as a key escalation point for high-risk AML issues, coordinating with the Compliance team, Legal department, and external regulators where necessary.
   Lead internal investigations on suspicious activity, documenting findings, and supporting follow-up actions to close any compliance gaps.
6. Regulatory Compliance and Liaison
   Ensure compliance with UK and EU AML/CTF regulations, including FCA guidelines and HM Treasury mandates.
   Act as a liaison with regulatory bodies during audits, exams, or requests for information, representing the institution’s AML/CTF program.
   Stay up-to-date with evolving regulatory landscapes and industry trends, proactively adjusting risk assessment methodologies and controls.
7. Regulatory Reporting
   Prepare periodic regulatory reports and ensure their timely submission.

Qualifications and Skills

Education: Bachelor’s degree in finance, law, business, or a related field. Advanced certifications such as ICA Diploma in AML, CAMS, or equivalent are preferred.

Experience: 5+ years of experience in AML/CTF risk management within the financial services sector, preferably within an EMI, fintech, or digital bank.

Knowledge: In-depth understanding of UK AML regulations, including the Money Laundering Regulations, FCA requirements, and the Proceeds of Crime Act.

Technical Skills: Proficiency in AML/CTF monitoring systems and data analysis tools. Advanced skills in Microsoft Excel, Word, and PowerPoint for creating detailed reports, documentation, and presentations for management and regulatory bodies. Experience with regulatory reporting tools (e.g., GoAML, FINTRAC, or FCA’s RegData portal) to submit Suspicious Activity Reports (SARs) and meet regulatory requirements accurately and on time. Basic understanding of cybersecurity tools and principles to ensure AML data is securely handled, aligned with data privacy and protection regulations. In-depth knowledge and experience with VISA/MasterCard card processing, including awareness of associated money laundering (ML) and terrorist financing (TF) risks and patterns.

Analytical Skills: Strong investigative and analytical skills with attention to detail in high-pressure environments. The ability to analyze complex transactions and data to detect potential signs of money laundering or terrorist financing.

Communication Skills: Excellent verbal and written communication abilities to effectively convey complex information to stakeholders and regulators.

Integrity and Professionalism: High ethical standards and commitment to regulatory compliance.

Why Join Us?

As a Money Laundering Risk Officer, you will play a pivotal role in shaping and enhancing our compliance practices. This position offers a valuable opportunity to apply and grow your expertise in AML risk management within a collaborative, forward-thinking environment. We are committed to supporting your professional development and providing a rewarding workplace where integrity and compliance are highly valued.

Benefits

Competitive salary based on knowledge and experience
Annual leave (24 days as per group policy)
Flexible working options such as remote working and hybrid schedules
Support for continuing education, certifications, and professional training programs relevant to the industry (upon completion of 1 year with the company)
Performance-related annual bonuses based on individual performance and KPIs completed.

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