Main information
Term type:
Permanent
Department:
Compliance
Location:
London
The firm
Watson Farley & Williams (WFW) is a sector-focused international law firm with extensive expertise and industry insight across its core sectors of energy, infrastructure and transport. Through its network of 19 offices, the firm advises clients on complex, high-value transactions and disputes – matters requiring precise legal execution and a nuanced understanding of global market dynamics.
The firm’s success is driven by its people. It fosters a collaborative, inclusive and supportive environment where everyone can grow, share ideas and make an impact. Guided by its values –We are experts, We are united and We care – the firm delivers exceptional service through strong relationships and teamwork. The firm is committed to clear career paths, championing diversity and investing in its people so they can thrive.
The department
The Risk & Compliance Team, which forms part of the GC, Risk & Compliance function, comprises: Director of Risk & Compliance, Head of Compliance (for UK, EU, US), two Compliance Managers and 15 other team members. Team members are based predominantly in the UK, but also in Germany, Athens and Singapore.
Role overview
The role of the Compliance Officer is very broad and involves the day to day activities listed below. You will also be involved in various compliance projects.
Key activities/responsibilities
The day to day activities of the role includes:
- Reviewing new client and matter requests to ensure that all relevant information has been provided to satisfy our regulatory requirements and liaising with fee earners on obtaining any outstanding information.
- Analysing conflict check requests to identify any legal and commercial conflicts and liaising with partners accordingly.
- Undertaking PEP, sanctions and background checks as required and advising fee earners how to navigate any results.
- Reviewing and advising fee earners on escrow agreements from a compliance perspective.
- Reviewing and maintaining registers including process agency matters, gifts and hospitality, data protection, PEPs and Enhanced risk matters.
- Dealing with ad hoc queries.
- Training.
- Supporting the wider team with ongoing and ad hoc Compliance Projects as set out below.
Compliance Projects
Compliance projects are shared amongst the team on rotation (this is not an exhaustive list and is likely to change):
- Professional indemnity insurance renewal
- General insurance renewals
- Practising Certificate renewals
- Intranet/IT projects upgrades
- Tasks involved with new office opening
Skills and experience – essential
The ideal candidate will have previous experience in anti-money laundering policies and procedures and regulatory compliance including the following:
- Knowledge of relevant legislation, regulations, and law society/bar association guidance.
- Experience of performing CDD checks on entities and individuals (preferably in a law firm).
- Strong organisational skills and attention to detail.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
- Confident and articulate.
- Attention to detail.
- Ability to work under pressure and to tight deadlines.
- Ability to manage multiple priorities and adjust to changing priorities in a professional manner.
- Willingness and ability to assume new tasks and responsibilities with a strong service orientation.
- Excellent IT skills.
Skills and experience – desired
- Experience of using Intapp software products
- Languages
Benefits
We offer a competitive benefits and wellbeing package for all employees.
Additional information
The Firm promotes a culture of agility and flexibility and is fully supportive of flexible working arrangements where these can be accommodated.
Equal opportunities
Diversity and inclusion are integral to the firm’s strategy and underpin its efforts to attract and retain top talent. All employment decisions are made objectively, based on merit and ability and the firm is committed to inclusive and barrier-free recruitment. As a Disability Confident employer, WFW welcomes adjustments for candidates with disabilities or long-term health conditions and participates in the Disability Confident interview scheme. If you would like to apply through this scheme or require adjustments during any stage of the process, please contact [email protected] and include “Disability Confident Scheme Application” in the subject line of your email.
