Central & Controls Compliance Officer

About ACS Operations

ACS Operations is a leading provider of compliance, due diligence, and governance solutions, specializing in financial crime prevention and regulatory compliance. We partner with clients across banking, fintech, and corporate sectors, helping them implement strong internal control systems and ensure alignment with UK and global regulatory standards.

Role Overview

We are seeking a detail-oriented Central & Controls Compliance Officer to join our Compliance & Risk team. This role supports the objectives of the UK Compliance function by strengthening the controls program and central compliance framework. You will work across compliance, risk, and HR functions, ensuring robust internal systems, effective governance, and timely adherence to FCA and PRA requirements.

Key Responsibilities Compliance Controls & Oversight

• Implement compliance controls aligned with UK regulations and Head Office standards.
• Update and create control points tailored to UK business requirements.
• Manage remediation of corrective actions following thematic or compliance reviews.
• Escalate overdue or delayed actions to ensure accountability and delivery.

Targeted Testing & Monitoring

• Carry out ad hoc targeted reviews of areas of potential heightened risk.
• Scope, design, and execute compliance testing processes with clear reporting.

SMCR (Senior Managers & Certification Regime)

• Liaise with HR to identify and certify staff under SMCR.
• Oversee Certification and Senior Management Function applications.
• Ensure Conduct Rules and CISI training is completed before certification.
• Maintain accurate logs of certified staff and update the FCA Directory.
• Review and update SMCR policies and deliver SMCR training sessions.

Annual Re-Certification Process

• Coordinate annual staff re-certification with HR.
• Review fitness, propriety, and professional conduct declarations.
• Track completion deadlines and ensure timely sign-off by staff and managers.

Training & Awareness

• Coordinate compliance education and awareness programs across UK staff.
• Liaise with Head Office and external providers on training content.
• Track training completion, monitor regulatory updates, and communicate policies.
• Update and maintain the Compliance Education & Awareness procedures.

Gifts, Entertainment, and Personal Account Dealing

• Review and approve Gifts & Entertainment disclosures, escalating where necessary.
• Monitor PA dealing requests, approvals, and related compliance processes.
• Provide management information to support bribery and corruption prevention.
• Maintain and update procedures relating to gifts, entertainment, and personal account dealing.

Incidents & Conduct Monitoring

• Maintain incident and threshold crossing registers.
• Support quarterly conduct reporting to management committees.
• Record and track incidents in compliance with internal tools and frameworks.

Governance & Ad hoc Support

• Assist senior management with ad hoc compliance projects.
• Deliver compliance inductions to new joiners.
• Support internal audit and regulatory reviews as needed.
• Provide monthly compliance management information to leadership.

Legal & Regulatory Compliance

• Ensure compliance with all FCA, PRA, and internal compliance requirements.
• Maintain up-to-date regulatory knowledge and complete all mandatory training.
• Support the MLRO with financial crime prevention and fraud monitoring.

What We're Looking For

• Previous experience in a compliance, risk, or controls role within financial services.
• Strong understanding of FCA/PRA regulations and SMCR frameworks.
• Excellent organizational and stakeholder management skills.
• Analytical mindset with attention to detail and a proactive approach.
• Strong communication skills, capable of delivering training and clear reporting.
• Ability to balance independent work with collaborative team responsibilities.

Why Join ACS Operations?

• Work with a high-performing compliance and governance team trusted by global institutions.
• Standard working hours: 08:00 - 17:00.
• Exposure to diverse compliance frameworks and control testing projects.
• Supportive, professional environment with opportunities for career growth.
• Contribute to governance innovation and the development of AI-driven compliance tools.

How to Apply

To express your interest, please send your CV and a short cover note to:

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