Role Overview
We are seeking an experienced and commercially minded AML & Compliance Officer to lead the firm’s regulatory compliance and financial crime framework in the UK.
This role combines the responsibilities of:
- SMF16 – Compliance Oversight
- SMF17 – Money Laundering Reporting Officer (MLRO)
As a Senior Manager under the Senior Managers & Certification Regime (SMCR), the successful candidate will hold personal accountability for compliance oversight and financial crime controls, ensuring the firm meets all FCA regulatory obligations.
Key Responsibilities
The below outlines the core responsibilities of the role. Additional duties may be required on a reasonable basis, in line with business needs and regulatory expectations.
Compliance Oversight (SMF16)
- Lead and maintain the firm’s compliance framework and internal controls
- Ensure ongoing compliance with FCA rules (e.g. SYSC, COBS, SUP)
- Provide clear, practical regulatory advice to senior management
- Monitor regulatory developments and support implementation
- Act as the primary contact for the FCA and regulatory bodies
Financial Crime & AML (SMF17 – MLRO)
- Act as the firm’s appointed MLRO and nominated officer
- Oversee AML/CTF policies in line with UK regulations (MLR 2017)
- Review and escalate suspicious activity reports (SARs)
- Oversee client onboarding (KYC, CDD, EDD) and ongoing monitoring
- Manage sanctions, PEP screening, and financial crime controls
Governance & SMCR
- Maintain the Statement of Responsibilities (SoR)
- Support implementation of SMCR across the business
- Oversee Certification Regime and Fitness & Propriety processes
- Ensure clear governance and allocation of responsibilities
Monitoring, Assurance & Reporting
- Deliver and maintain the Compliance Monitoring Programme (CMP)
- Identify regulatory risks and control gaps
- Provide regular reporting to senior management and the Board
- Manage FCA submissions, regulatory returns, and queries
Advisory & Culture
- Provide day-to-day compliance advice to the business
- Review policies, procedures, and marketing materials
- Deliver compliance and AML training
- Promote a strong compliance and risk-aware culture
Authority & Independence
The role holder will have sufficient seniority, authority, and independence to effectively discharge their responsibilities, including full access to all relevant information, systems, and personnel across the business.
Key Accountabilities
The successful candidate will be accountable for:
- Compliance oversight (SMF16)
- Financial crime framework (SMF17)
- Effectiveness of internal controls and governance
- Escalation of material risks to senior management and regulators
Skills & Experience
Essential:
- Strong experience in UK financial services compliance and AML
- In-depth knowledge of FCA Handbook, MLR 2017, and SMCR
- Experience in a senior compliance or MLRO role
Desirable:
- Prior FCA-approved SMF16 / SMF17 experience
- Experience engaging directly with the FCA
- Background in trading, brokerage, fintech, or financial markets
Qualifications
- Degree or equivalent professional experience
- Relevant certifications such as ICA, ACAMS, or CISI (preferred)
Personal Attributes
- High integrity and accountability
- Strong judgement and risk awareness
- Ability to influence senior stakeholders
- Clear and confident communication skills
Regulatory Requirements
This role is subject to:
- FCA approval under SMCR
- Fitness & Propriety assessment
- Ongoing regulatory accountability
Additional Information
- This is a key hire for the business with significant regulatory responsibility
- The role requires strong ownership, oversight, and leadership
- The role holder is expected to ensure continuity of compliance at all times
Work Location: Hybrid remote in London
