At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead regulatory programmes and enhance risk and compliance frameworks in a fast-growing financial services business.
- Company: Dynamic FCA-regulated financial services firm in the payments and FX sector.
- Benefits: Competitive executive salary, employee share scheme, and hybrid working options.
- Other info: Opportunity to influence major regulatory transformations and work closely with the Executive Leadership Team.
- Why this job: Shape the future of a growing organisation and lead a high-performing team.
- Qualifications: Significant experience in senior Risk & Compliance roles within FCA-regulated environments.
We are currently recruiting for a Chief Risk & Compliance Officer (CRCO) to join a fast-growing, FCA-regulated financial services business operating within the payments and FX sector. Reporting directly to the CEO and forming part of the Executive Leadership Team, this is a rare opportunity to shape the future of an ambitious organisation with significant growth plans both in the UK and internationally.
This is not a traditional compliance leadership role. The successful candidate will be responsible for leading a major regulatory programme, building and enhancing the risk and compliance framework, and ensuring the business is positioned for scalable, sustainable growth. You will lead a team of six whilst acting as a trusted advisor to the Board and Executive Team on all matters relating to risk, governance and regulation.
This role would suit an experienced risk and compliance executive who combines strong regulatory expertise with commercial acumen and a genuine passion for building high-performing teams and operating models.
Key Responsibilities:
- Lead a significant regulatory authorisation programme and manage regulatory engagement throughout the process.
- Act as the principal regulatory advisor to the CEO, Board and Executive Leadership Team.
- Develop and embed a robust enterprise risk management framework across the organisation.
- Provide oversight of AML, financial crime, sanctions, KYC, Consumer Duty, safeguarding and regulatory reporting activities.
- Drive the development of scalable governance, risk and compliance infrastructure.
- Lead and develop a high-performing Risk & Compliance team.
- Maintain strong relationships with regulators, banking partners, auditors and external stakeholders.
- Support future regulatory, licensing and international expansion initiatives.
- Deliver high-quality Board reporting, management information and governance oversight.
- Promote a culture of compliance, accountability and effective risk management throughout the business.
Who We Are Looking For:
- Significant experience within senior Risk & Compliance positions in FCA-regulated financial services environments.
- Executive-level leadership experience gained within payments, electronic money, FX, banking or fintech sectors.
- Current or previous SMF16 (Compliance Oversight) approval.
- SMF17 (MLRO) approval would be highly advantageous.
- Proven experience securing FCA authorisations, licence variations or leading major regulatory change programmes.
- Strong understanding of Payment Services Regulations, safeguarding, Consumer Duty, operational resilience and enterprise risk management.
- Demonstrable experience building, transforming and leading Risk & Compliance functions.
- Strong stakeholder management and influencing skills, with the ability to operate effectively at Board level.
- Commercially minded with the ability to balance regulatory requirements with business growth objectives.
On Offer:
- Highly competitive executive salary and package
- Participation in an employee share scheme
- Executive Leadership Team position reporting directly to the CEO
- Opportunity to lead a significant regulatory transformation programme
- Hybrid working with a Central London office location
- The chance to play a key role in shaping the future growth of a dynamic and ambitious financial services business
Chief Risk & Compliance Officer employer: Vero HR
Vero HR is an exceptional employer located in Peterborough, offering a dynamic work culture that prioritises employee well-being and professional growth. With a modern office environment and a comprehensive benefits package, including 25 days of annual leave plus your birthday off, Vero HR fosters a supportive atmosphere where team members can thrive while delivering outstanding client service.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Chief Risk & Compliance Officer
✨Tap into Campus Networks
If you're still in uni, don’t forget to engage with your campus's career services and attend finance-related events. Banks often do presentations and recruitment drives on campus, so put yourself out there and make use of these opportunities to show off your passion for the field.
✨Get Certified
Consider pursuing relevant certifications like the CFA or ACCA while you’re job hunting. They not only beef up your CV but also connect you with professional bodies which can lead to networking opportunities and even job openings in banking and financial services.
✨Connect on Professional Platforms
Join finance-focused groups on platforms like LinkedIn and engage in discussions. This can really help you stand out from the crowd, allowing potential employers to see your knowledge and interest in industry trends. Plus, you might stumble upon job postings shared exclusively within the group.
✨Apply Directly and Be Proactive
Don’t shy away from reaching out directly to firms like Vero HR. Use their websites and apply through them, but also consider following up with a polite email to express your enthusiasm. Being proactive can make a huge difference in getting noticed in the competitive financial services sector.
We think you need these skills to ace Chief Risk & Compliance Officer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Numbers!:In the banking and financial services world, quantifiable achievements are key. Make sure your CV highlights your grades in relevant subjects, any financial certifications you hold, and specific projects where you've delivered measurable results. Employers love to see how your skills translate into real-world success.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Role:When applying for a full-time position, your cover letter should make a direct connection between your experience and the job description. Don't just state your enthusiasm for finance—dive into how your background in banking or financial analysis sets you apart. Let your passion shine through while being specific about what you can bring to Vero HR.
Include Relevant Financial Software Experience:If you've worked with financial modelling tools or software like Excel, SAP, or specific analytical tools during your studies or internships, bring that up! Highlighting your proficiency can really make your application pop and show you're ready to hit the ground running in a full-time role.
Research and Reflect:Before hitting that 'apply' button on Vero HR's website, do a little digging. Look up their recent projects, values, and culture. Reflecting their ethos in your application can make a huge difference and show you’re genuinely interested in being part of the team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Vero HR
✨Brush Up on Financial Analysis Skills
Make sure you're well-versed in financial concepts and analytical techniques relevant to banking and financial services. Get comfortable with tools like Excel for modelling or financial forecasting, as technical questions in this area are common during interviews with Vero HR.
✨Prepare for Case Studies
Expect to tackle case studies that demonstrate your problem-solving skills in real-world banking scenarios. Familiarise yourself with the types of problems you might face—think risk assessments or investment evaluations—and be ready to articulate your thought process clearly.
✨Show Your Passion for Finance
Since this is a full-time position, employers at Vero HR will be keen to see your genuine interest in finance. Be prepared to discuss recent industry trends or news articles that excite you, showcasing your enthusiasm and engagement with the field.
✨Network with Industry Professionals
Before your interview, reach out to current or former Vero HR employees on platforms like LinkedIn. They'll offer unique insights into the company's culture and the interview process, which can give us a delightful edge in showcasing a good fit for the team.