Head of Compliance & MLRO - UK

Job Title: Head of Compliance & MLRO - UK

Location: United Kingdom

Job Purpose:

The Head of Compliance & MLRO is the senior manager accountable for Compliance Oversight and Money Laundering Reporting under the FCA/PRA's regulatory framework. The role provides independent assurance to the Board and Senior Management that the Bank operates in full compliance with applicable regulatory requirements, with a key focus on financial crime prevention. Reporting to the Chief Risk Officer, this role holds direct escalation rights to the Chair of the Board Risk Committee.

Key Responsibilities:

• Maintain and oversee the Bank's Compliance and Financial Crime Frameworks, including the annual Compliance Monitoring Plan.
• Ensure full adherence to FCA, PRA, JMLSG, POCA, MLR 2022, and related UK regulations.
• Act as the primary point of contact with the FCA, PRA, NCA, and law enforcement bodies for compliance and AML matters.
• Serve as the registered MLRO, responsible for receiving, investigating, and reporting Suspicious Activity Reports (SARs).
• Oversee and continuously improve systems and controls for AML, CDD, EDD, sanctions screening, transaction monitoring, and fraud prevention.
• Provide regulatory advice across the business and ensure compliance input into new products, services, and promotions.
• Lead the delivery of regular Compliance and AML training for staff and the Board.
• Present regular Compliance and Financial Crime management information and reports to the Board Risk Committee.
• Lead and develop the Compliance and Financial Crime team, ensuring appropriate certifications and performance standards.
• Cultivate a strong compliance culture and embed conduct, risk awareness, and customer fairness throughout the Bank.

Qualifications and Experience:

• Bachelor's degree or higher in Law, Finance, Business, or related discipline.
• Minimum of 10 years' senior-level experience in compliance and financial crime within the UK banking or financial services sector.
• In-depth knowledge of the FCA Handbook (e.g., SYSC, COND, COBS), PRA Rulebook, UK AML regulations, and Financial Crime legislation.
• Professional certification (e.g., ICA, CAMS, ACAMS, CISI) is essential.
• Legal or accountancy qualification is desirable but not mandatory.
• Strong communication, leadership, and stakeholder management skills.
• Proven ability to work under pressure and deliver clear, decisive compliance advice to Board and senior leadership.

What the role Offers

• Strategic influence at senior executive and Board levels.
• Opportunity to build and lead a high-performing Compliance function.
• Private healthcare, pension contributions, and professional development support.
• A purpose-driven banking environment focused on compliance, risk management, and integrity.

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