Chief Compliance Officer in City of London

Sterling Williams are working alongside a growing FCA Regulated E-Money Institution in their search for London based Chief Compliance Officer (CCO)

The Chief Compliance Officer will be a key strategic business partner, pivotal in shaping the growth strategy while maintaining the highest compliance standards, in an environment where compliance is not just about regulatory adherence but a core pillar of the business that enables sustainable growth. This role requires requires both a deep understanding of compliance frameworks and strong commercial instincts, ensuring compliance is embedded into our operations and driving a compliance-first culture that enhances our ability to innovate and scale.

The successful candidate will balance high-level oversight with hands-on operational management, ensuring compliance across all business activities in the UK.

Regulatory Compliance and Risk Management

• Ensure compliance with all relevant UK financial regulations, including Money Laundering Regulations, Proceeds of Crime Act, and FCA Guidelines, as well as reporting obligations.
• Develop, implement, and maintain compliance frameworks, policies, and procedures in line with UK, EU, and global regulatory requirements.
• Continuously assess compliance risks and implement effective risk management strategies that align with our growth objectives.
• Stay abreast of regulatory changes and ensure timely updates to policies and operational processes..
• Lead regulatory engagement, maintain open and constructive relationships with the FCA and other regulatory bodies, as well as engagement with auditors and banking partners from a compliance perspective.
• Deliver training programs that empower teams to understand the importance of compliance and their role in maintaining it.

Compliance Operations Management

• Oversee and optimise compliance operations, ensuring efficient review, monitoring, reporting and escalation processes
• Enhance and manage key compliance controls, including transaction monitoring, customer onboarding and due diligence as well as enhanced due diligence processes

Strategic Leadership & Cross-Functional collaboration

• Work with the Global Chief Compliance Officer and other regional Compliance Officers in shaping the companys global compliance strategy
• Act as a trusted advisor to the executive team, ensuring compliance is integrated into the companys commercial and strategic decisions
• Work closely with internal stakeholders, including legal, risk, finance, and product teams, to embed compliance into business operations and our products.
• Represent the company in regulatory discussions, industry forums, and working groups.
• Identify and implement best practices that enhance compliance efficiencies, leveraging technology and automation to scale effectively.

The successful candidate will likely have:

• Bachelors degree in a relevant field such as finance, business administration, or law. A masters degree or relevant professional certification is preferred.
• Minimum 10 years of experience in compliance within the fintech sector, with at least 5 years in a leadership role. Experience in cross-border payments is a plus.
• In depth knowledge of UK financial regulations and standards.
• Proven track record of partnering with business leaders to navigate complex regulatory landscapes while enabling sustainable growth.
• Experience working with product teams to embed compliance into products and business operations.
• Excellent leadership, communication and stakeholder management skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Ability to work effectively with teams across multiple geographies and cultures, fostering collaboration in a global business environment.