At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the AML function and manage a high-performing team in a global law firm.
- Company: Join a prestigious international law firm with a collaborative culture.
- Benefits: Enjoy fabulous firm-wide benefits and a senior leadership position.
- Other info: Opportunity for continuous improvement and professional development.
- Why this job: Shape AML strategy and influence high-profile, cross-border matters.
- Qualifications: Significant AML experience and qualified Solicitor in England and Wales.
The predicted salary is between 80000 - 100000 £ per year.
We are a global law firm looking to invest in senior compliance leadership, adding a Head of AML to our senior team. This senior leadership role offers the opportunity to shape the firm’s AML strategy, manage a high‑performing team and act as a trusted adviser to partners and senior stakeholders on complex financial crime, sanctions, and regulatory matters.
Key responsibilities include:
- Lead and develop the firm’s AML function and oversee its anti‑money laundering strategy.
- Manage, mentor and develop a team of Financial Crime Risk Managers and AML professionals.
- Act as the senior escalation point for complex AML, sanctions and financial crime matters.
- Provide practical, commercial advice to partners, lawyers and senior stakeholders across the business.
- Support the ongoing development and optimisation of the firm’s Intapp Matter Opening system.
- Deliver AML and Counter Terrorist Financing training across the firm.
- Work closely with the MLRO, MLCO, COLP and General Counsel teams on regulatory matters.
- Support sanctions compliance and broader financial crime initiatives.
- Drive continuous improvements to AML policies, procedures and controls.
About You
- Significant experience in an AML‑focused legal compliance role within a law firm.
- Qualified Solicitor in England and Wales.
- Strong technical knowledge of the Money Laundering Regulations, LSAG Guidance, POCA and UK sanctions.
- Experience managing complex AML and financial crime escalations.
- Previous people‑management experience, with a passion for developing high‑performing teams.
- The confidence to influence partners and senior stakeholders.
- Experience using Intapp or similar matter opening / client onboarding systems (desirable but not essential).
What's in it for you
- Senior leadership position within a highly regarded international law firm.
- Exposure to complex, high‑profile and cross‑border matters.
- Fabulous firm‑wide benefits.
- Genuine opportunity to influence strategy and drive continuous improvement.
- Collaborative and supportive culture working with a premier GC.
Head of AML employer: qed legal
As a leading global law firm, we pride ourselves on fostering a collaborative and supportive culture that empowers our employees to excel. The Head of AML role not only offers a senior leadership position with exposure to complex, high-profile matters but also provides exceptional benefits and genuine opportunities for professional growth and influence within the firm. Join us in London, where you can make a meaningful impact while working alongside a team of dedicated professionals committed to excellence in compliance and financial crime prevention.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of AML
✨Join Compliance Communities
Get involved in compliance and risk communities — both online and offline. Look for forums, LinkedIn groups, or even local meetups where compliance pros hang out. You never know who might drop a job opportunity your way!
✨Attend Industry Conferences
Keep an eye out for compliance and risk management conferences and workshops in your area. These events are a goldmine for networking, and they often have job boards or recruiters on-site looking for new talent. Plus, it’s a chance to learn what's trending in the field.
✨Leverage Your University Career Services
If you’ve recently graduated or are still studying, head over to your university's career services. Many companies, including those in compliance, actively recruit fresh talent through these services, so make sure you tap into that resource.
✨Showcase Your Knowledge Online
Start writing articles or blog posts about compliance topics that interest you. Share them on platforms like LinkedIn to demonstrate your knowledge and passion. This not only builds your presence in the field but can also catch the attention of companies like qed legal looking for candidates who are engaged and informed.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of AML
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Understanding of Compliance:In the compliance-risk field, it's super important to showcase your understanding of regulations and risk management frameworks. Highlight any relevant coursework, certifications (like ICA or AML), or even projects that demonstrate your knowledge and commitment to this area. We want to see how you can navigate this complex landscape!
Quantify Your Achievements:When detailing your experience, try to quantify your achievements. For example, if you've previously worked on a project that improved compliance metrics or reduced risk exposure, give us the numbers! This data-driven approach really stands out to hiring managers in compliance-risk roles.
Tailor Your CV to Reflect Relevant Skills:Make sure your CV highlights skills that are particularly relevant to compliance, like attention to detail, analytical thinking, and report writing. Ensure these are easy to spot – consider using bullet points to break down your responsibilities and achievements for maximum impact!
Craft a Motivating Cover Letter:In your cover letter, let us know why you’re excited about the compliance-risk role at qed legal. Share what motivates you about compliance, and how you believe you can contribute to our mission. This is your chance to showcase not only your skills but also your passion for this important field!
How to prepare for a job interview at qed legal
✨Master the Regulations
Brush up on key compliance regulations relevant to the industry you're applying to. Familiarising yourself with specific laws and frameworks used in your field will give you an edge during technical questions. Show that you’re not just aware of them but can also apply them—think real-life scenarios!
✨Show Your Analytical Skills
Compliance roles really focus on analytical skills, so be prepared for case studies or situational questions during the interview. We've got to demonstrate how we approach risk assessments or compliance audits, possibly drawing on examples from past experiences or university projects. Bring some thoughtful case scenarios to discuss!
✨Know Your Tools
Get comfortable with commonly used compliance software and tools. Familiarity with platforms like RSA or MetricStream can really impress during your interview, as it shows you're ready to hit the ground running. If you’ve had any experience with them, make sure to highlight that!
✨Align with Company Culture
Since it's a full-time position, show your long-term commitment and interest in the company’s mission and values. Dive into how your ethics and professional philosophy align with qed legal’s stance on compliance. A shared vision can really resonate with interviewers looking for fit as much as skill!
