Conflict & New Client Analyst (12mth FTC)

About the Role

The Conflict & New Client Analyst, based in London, processes conflict checks using the firm's New Business Intake (NBI) workflow and ensures anti‑money laundering and sanctions compliance obligations are met.

Responsibilities

• Compare the scope of work to conflict check details and seek additional information if required.
• Process conflict checks received via the automated NBI process; analyze search results and determine whether the new matter is clear of an ethical or commercial conflict and appropriate for the firm.
• Proactively follow up to resolve potential conflicts.
• Escalate conflict issues to the Senior Client and Matter Inception Manager and/or Regional Heads of Risk & Compliance with clear analysis and conclusions.
• Maintain and update the conflict search database as new information becomes available.
• Record all conflict research, communications with Fee Earners, and conclusions for compliance and auditing.
• Send conflict search listings and monitor responses.
• Screen clients and client parties through the PEP/sanctions tool, conduct research on Politically Exposed Persons and high‑risk clients, and prepare profile packs for management review.
• Process, check and record client due diligence documentation.
• Create and maintain restricted groups and information barriers.
• Maintain various Risk & Compliance records and registers.
• Handle business acceptance queries, including conflicts and anti‑money laundering ID queries.

Key Skills and Experience

• Min. 2–3 years in the legal professional services environment.
• Knowledge of international rules around conflicts of interest.
• Knowledge of international anti‑money laundering legislation.
• Degree or other relevant qualifications.
• PC literate; experience with Elite 3E, IntApp Open or similar management systems is desirable.
• Strategic thinker with commercial awareness.
• Meticulous attention to detail.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective relationships with key stakeholders.
• Strong customer focus and service orientation.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Ability to work as part of a team, manage own workload and adapt to changing priorities.
• Adaptable to new systems, procedures and role requirements.
• Flexible, willing to assist others in achieving team objectives.
• Confident dealing with senior management and ensuring service levels are adhered to; well‑disciplined and self‑motivated.
• Ability to work well under pressure.
• Enthusiastic, positive attitude.

The Essentials

• Fixed‑term contract for 12 months to cover maternity leave.
• Working hours: 9:30 am – 5:30 pm, flexibility required.
• Hybrid model – minimum 2 days a week in the office.
• 12‑week probation period; 4‑week notice period.
• Flexible benefits: pension, private medical, season ticket loan, subsidised gym memberships, lifestyle discount scheme, on‑site café, and more.

Equal Opportunities Employment Statement

It is the policy of Withers to provide equal opportunities for all employees in relation to recruitment, training and promotion. Decisions in these areas will be made only by reference to the requirements of the job and shall not be influenced by any consideration of age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage or civil partnership, pregnancy or maternity, race (including colour, nationality and ethnic and national origin), religion or belief, sex or sexual orientation.