At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead compliance strategies and oversee financial crime risk management across global markets.
- Company: High-growth fintech company revolutionising global finance and payments.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, hybrid work model, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Join a dynamic team with a focus on removing global financial barriers.
- Why this job: Shape a borderless financial ecosystem and drive innovation in compliance.
- Qualifications: Proven experience as MLRO in FCA-regulated environments and strong regulatory knowledge.
The predicted salary is between 70000 - 80000 € per year.
Location: City of London (Hybrid – 2 days onsite)
Compensation: £70,000 - £80,000 per annum
Reports to: CEO (with direct statutory access to the Board of Directors)
Requirements: Proven experience as MLRO within a UK FCA-regulated EMI or Fintech.
Relocation: Candidates must be based in the UK with the right to work.
This is a high-level role combining MLRO, Head of Compliance, and Group Financial Crime oversight across the UK, Canada, and emerging markets.
Overview: Satāya is representing a high-growth Fintech client in the search for a strategic and commercially aware Head of Compliance & MLRO. Our client is a high-growth technology company enabling global finance, payments, and commerce opportunities. They provide a single access point that empowers individuals and businesses to operate globally by building best-in-class financial solutions that remove barriers to growth and mobility.
Scope of Role: This position combines the full responsibilities of the Head of Compliance & MLRO. The successful candidate will develop, implement, and oversee strategies to mitigate fraud and financial crime risks, providing second-line oversight for compliance teams across multiple international jurisdictions.
- Regulatory & Statutory Oversight
- Act as the appointed MLRO for the UK entity (FCA), liaising directly with the NCA and FCA on SARS/STRs.
- Serve as the primary designated contact for the FCA for all compliance and supervisory matters.
- Maintain a regulatory obligations register containing all requirements of EMRs, PSRs, and FCA rules.
- Oversee safeguarding obligations and ensure strict compliance with CASS 15 requirements.
- Financial Crime & Risk Management
- Own the Financial Crime Risk Management Framework, covering AML/CFT, ABC, and Sanctions.
- Manage the Risk Assessment Matrix for cross-border transactions involving diverse global corridors.
- Oversee Customer Due Diligence (CDD/EDD), PEP/Sanctions screening, and Transaction Monitoring systems.
- Manage the Suspicious Activity Report (SAR) decision-making process for filings across all active markets.
- Strategy, Governance & Emerging Tech
- Monitor evolving FCA requirements regarding cryptocurrency and virtual assets, including Travel Rule compliance.
- Set clear compliance objectives and support the 'three lines of defence' model and risk management.
- Prepare and present Management Information (MI) reports to the CEO, Board Risk Committee, and Executive Team.
- Ensure third-party API/SaaS partners meet rigorous financial crime standards and oversee company-wide AML/CFT training programmes.
Ideal Candidate Profile:
The ideal candidate is a strategic advisor who can collaborate across the organisation to optimise the customer onboarding experience through subject matter expertise in compliance software.
- Experience: Previous tenure as an MLRO or Head of Compliance within a UK FCA-regulated EMI, Payments institution, or Fintech is essential. Experience in North American (MSB) or emerging markets is highly advantageous.
- Technical Knowledge: Deep understanding of cross-border payment operations, international money transfer corridors, and banking.
- Regulatory Mastery: Detailed knowledge of the FCA Handbook (SYSC, FC, SUP) and JMLSG guidance.
- Crypto Proficiency: Ability to articulate compliance requirements for cryptocurrency and the FCA’s specific position on virtual assets.
Why Our Client:
Our client is at the forefront of open borders for finance. By joining the team, you will be instrumental in building a borderless ecosystem for global mobility. You will have the autonomy to shape a robust compliance framework in a fast-scaling, high-tech environment that values innovation, regulatory integrity, and the removal of global financial barriers.
This represents a confidential search conducted on behalf of our client. To protect the privacy of the brand and its high-profile clientele, specific company details will be shared exclusively with shortlisted candidates. If you have not received a response within two weeks, please consider your application unsuccessful at this time.
Head of Compliance in London employer: Sataya
At the forefront of global finance, our client offers a dynamic and innovative work environment in the heart of London. As a Head of Compliance, you will enjoy a hybrid working model that promotes work-life balance while being part of a high-growth fintech company dedicated to removing barriers to financial mobility. With a strong emphasis on employee development and a culture that values strategic thinking and collaboration, this role provides an exceptional opportunity for professional growth in a rapidly evolving industry.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Compliance in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the fintech space. Attend industry events, webinars, or even local meetups. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your expertise! When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, make sure to highlight your experience as an MLRO and your understanding of compliance software. Tailor your conversations to showcase how you can add value to their team.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t just apply – engage! When you find a role that excites you, reach out directly to the hiring manager or someone in the compliance team. A quick message expressing your enthusiasm can set you apart from the crowd.
✨Tip Number 4
Keep it real with follow-ups! After interviews or networking chats, send a thank-you note. It’s a simple way to remind them of your interest and professionalism. Plus, it keeps you fresh in their minds as they make decisions.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Compliance in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Head of Compliance role. Highlight your experience as an MLRO and any relevant compliance achievements. We want to see how your background aligns with the job description!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter should tell us why you're the perfect fit for this role. Share specific examples of your strategic thinking and how you've tackled compliance challenges in the past. This is your chance to shine!
Showcase Your Regulatory Knowledge:Since this role requires a deep understanding of FCA regulations, make sure to mention your familiarity with the FCA Handbook and any relevant compliance frameworks. We love candidates who know their stuff!
Apply Through Our Website:Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to keep track of your application and ensure it gets the attention it deserves. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Sataya
✨Know Your Regulations
Make sure you brush up on the FCA Handbook and JMLSG guidance before your interview. Being able to discuss specific regulations and how they apply to the role will show that you're not just familiar with compliance, but that you can navigate the complexities of the regulatory landscape.
✨Showcase Your Strategic Thinking
Prepare examples of how you've developed and implemented compliance strategies in previous roles. Highlight your experience as an MLRO and how you've managed financial crime risks. This will demonstrate your ability to think strategically and lead compliance initiatives effectively.
✨Understand Emerging Technologies
Given the focus on cryptocurrency and virtual assets, be ready to discuss your knowledge of these areas. Familiarise yourself with the latest FCA requirements regarding crypto and how they impact compliance. This will set you apart as a candidate who is forward-thinking and tech-savvy.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your decision-making skills in compliance situations. Think about past experiences where you had to make tough calls regarding suspicious activity or regulatory breaches, and be ready to explain your thought process and outcomes.
