Senior Compliance Officer & MLRO

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 work with clients across banking, fintech, payments, and digital asset sectors, helping them meet complex regulatory obligations, strengthen risk frameworks, and safeguard operational integrity through expert-led services and AI-driven tools.

Role Overview

We are seeking an experienced Senior Compliance Officer & MLRO to lead regulatory compliance and financial crime risk management within our Compliance & Risk function. The successful candidate will ensure full adherence to UK Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) regulations, the Money Laundering Regulations 2017, and global financial crime standards. This role is pivotal in supporting organizational integrity, safeguarding client assets, and driving compliance excellence.

Key Responsibilities Regulatory Compliance & FCA Engagement

• Oversee compliance with FCA's regulatory framework for EMIs, including SMCR, Consumer Duty, and AML/CTF rules.
• Act as the main liaison with the FCA, handling supervision, reporting, and audit requirements.
• Prepare and submit regulatory reports, licensing documents, and audit responses accurately and on time.
• Monitor regulatory developments and update policies, frameworks, and procedures accordingly.
• Ensure compliance with safeguarding of client funds, capital adequacy, and all EMI-specific obligations.

AML/CTF Compliance & Financial Crime Prevention

• Serve as MLRO, leading all AML/CTF and Sanctions program responsibilities.
• Manage KYC/KYB onboarding and ongoing monitoring, including source of funds/wealth checks.
• Operate advanced transaction monitoring systems to detect and investigate suspicious activity.
• Conduct Enhanced Due Diligence (EDD) for high-risk clients, PEPs, and complex cross-border cases.
• Submit Suspicious Activity Reports (SARs) to the NCA and liaise with relevant authorities.
• Oversee sanctions screening processes (OFAC, EU, UN, HMT) and ensure compliance with global guidelines.

Internal Compliance & Governance

• Design, update, and enforce compliance policies, controls, and procedures for EMI operations.
• Conduct compliance monitoring, internal audits, and risk assessments to mitigate exposure.
• Deliver regular employee training on AML/CTF, FCA requirements, and compliance best practices.
• Ensure marketing, client agreements, and promotions comply with FCA standards.
• Advise senior management and the Board on compliance risks, breaches, and mitigation strategies.
• Support compliance reviews for new financial services, products, and client activities.

What We're Looking For

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Law, Finance, Business, or a related field; compliance certifications (CAMS, ICA, CRCM) preferred.
• Minimum 5 years' compliance experience within an FCA-regulated financial institution (EMI, PI, bank, broker).
• Strong knowledge of FCA regulations, the Money Laundering Regulations 2017, and UK AML/CTF frameworks.
• Experience in KYB/KYC governance, risk analysis, and financial crime prevention.
• Skilled in regulatory reporting, compliance documentation, and internal audits.
• Familiarity with compliance and KYC technology platforms (e.g., ComplyAdvantage, Lexis Nexis).
• Strong analytical, communication, and decision-making abilities.
• Self-motivated, ethical, and capable of strategic compliance leadership.

Why Join ACS Operations?

• Lead compliance and AML/CTF strategy in a high-impact, senior role.
• Collaborate with a trusted team serving leading institutions in banking, payments, and digital assets.
• Standard working hours: 08:00 - 17:00.
• Supportive environment with access to ongoing professional training and certifications.
• Opportunities to shape compliance frameworks and drive innovation in governance and risk.

How to Apply

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

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