Compliance Manager (AML) - Property firm

The Compliance Manager will play a crucial role in ensuring that the company adheres to all relevant legal, regulatory, and ethical standards. This role involves managing and approving anti-money laundering (AML) documentation for customers, overseeing the due diligence process for sales agents and suppliers, including ensuring timely payment, and providing line management to a small team. The Compliance Manager will act as a key resource in promoting a culture of compliance and safeguarding the business against financial and reputational risks.

Key Responsibilities:

• AML Document Review and Approval: Assess and approve AML documentation for new and existing customers to ensure compliance with relevant regulations. Monitor and update internal AML procedures in line with current laws and guidelines. Escalate any suspicious activity or non-compliance to senior management and relevant authorities.
• Due Diligence Management: Conduct and approve due diligence checks on sales agents and suppliers to mitigate risks of corruption, fraud, or unethical practices. Maintain accurate and up-to-date records of all due diligence processes. Collaborate with procurement and sales teams to ensure due diligence policies are understood and followed.
• Compliance Monitoring and Reporting: Develop and maintain compliance monitoring frameworks for the organization. Prepare and submit compliance reports to internal and external stakeholders, as required. Stay informed on changes in regulations that impact the house building sector and implement necessary updates.
• Training and Advisory: Act as an advisor to different departments on compliance-related matters.
• Records Management: Oversee accurate record-keeping of customer AML documents, due diligence reports, and compliance activities. Ensure documentation is readily accessible for internal and external audits.
• Continuous Improvement: Regularly review and enhance the company's compliance framework to align with industry best practices. Monitor emerging compliance technologies and recommend tools to improve efficiency.
• Stakeholder Engagement: Collaborate with senior management to ensure compliance objectives align with business goals. Provide guidance and support to other teams regarding compliance-related challenges.
• Line Management: Provide leadership and line management to three people responsible for compiling AML and due diligence information. Set clear objectives, monitor performance, and provide ongoing feedback and professional development opportunities. Ensure the team operates efficiently and maintains high standards of accuracy and compliance in their work.

Skills and Qualifications:

• Educational Background: Degree in Law, Finance, Business Administration, or a related field. A UK-accredited degree is preferred.
• Professional Certifications: Certification in AML, Compliance, or Risk Management, such as: International Compliance Association (ICA) qualifications, Association of Certified Anti-Money Laundering Specialists (ACAMS) certification, Chartered Institute for Securities & Investment (CISI) Level 4 Certificate in Compliance. Knowledge or training related to UK-specific regulatory standards is highly desirable.
• Knowledge of Regulations: Comprehensive understanding of UK-specific laws and regulations, including: Proceeds of Crime Act (POCA) 2002, Money Laundering Regulations 2017 (amended in 2022), General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) as applicable to compliance and due diligence.
• Experience: Proven experience in a compliance or risk management role, preferably within the UK property, construction or banking sectors. Familiarity with conducting AML and due diligence checks in accordance with UK legal and regulatory frameworks.
• Skills: Strong analytical and problem-solving skills. Attention to detail and ability to manage sensitive UK-related compliance documentation confidentially. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills. Proficient in compliance monitoring tools and software relevant to the UK market.