Head of Compliance

Job Description: Head of Compliance & Money Laundering Reporting Officer (MLRO) - SMF16 & SMF17 Position: Head of Compliance & MLRO Function Holder Roles: SMF16 (Compliance Oversight) & SMF17 (Money Laundering Reporting Officer) Location: Boutique Bank (Hybrid Working / Part-Time Flexibility Available) Salary: £100,000 per annum About the Role This is an exciting opportunity to join a boutique bank as the Head of Compliance and MLRO, registered as a Senior Manager with the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) under SMF16 and SMF17. We're seeking a compliance leader with proven expertise in establishing and managing compliance functions, who has a strategic mindset and operational capability. With a supportive, low-pressure environment due to the bank's limited deal volume and low-risk profile, this role offers a balanced work-life setup, hybrid flexibility, and even part-time arrangements for the right candidate. You will be supported by an in situ DMLRO and be responsible for the 20 strong office. Key Responsibilities

• Compliance Oversight (SMF16):
  • Lead the bank's compliance function, ensuring full alignment with FCA regulations, industry standards, and best practices.
  • Develop and implement compliance policies, procedures, and frameworks to support a risk-averse, regulated environment.
  • Oversee regulatory reporting and engage in direct communication with the FCA and other regulatory bodies.
  • Monitor, assess, and report on compliance risks, ensuring robust controls and mitigation strategies.
  • Conduct compliance training across all departments, fostering a strong compliance culture.
  • Prepare and present compliance performance and risk reports to the senior management team and board of directors.
• Money Laundering Reporting Officer (SMF17):
  • Act as the designated MLRO for the bank, overseeing all anti-money laundering (AML) and counter-terrorist financing (CTF) programs.
  • Implement and maintain AML and CTF policies in line with regulatory requirements and risk management objectives.
  • Review and manage all AML/CTF investigations and reporting, including suspicious activity reports (SARs), ensuring timely and accurate filings.
  • Liaise with relevant regulatory and law enforcement agencies, maintaining effective channels of communication and reporting.
  • Stay informed on emerging trends and updates in financial crime and AML/CTF legislation, adjusting internal policies accordingly.

Candidate Profile

• Qualifications & Experience:
  • FCA registered with prior experience holding SMF16 and SMF17 roles, ideally within a regulated environment.
  • Strong background in compliance, risk management, and AML with a proven ability to manage regulatory relationships.
  • Expert knowledge of FCA regulations and requirements, ideally within a boutique or low-risk bank setting.
  • They will consider candidates who are not working in banking/trade finance.
• Skills & Attributes:
  • Ability to work both independently and collaboratively with senior management, stakeholders, and teams.
  • Strong strategic thinking and problem-solving abilities, with meticulous attention to detail.
  • Excellent communication skills, with the ability to present complex information in a clear and actionable manner.
  • Proactive, ethical, and resilient in driving compliance and AML objectives within a risk-averse framework.

Benefits

• Competitive salary of £100,000, alongside hybrid and part-time flexibility.
• Opportunity to shape the compliance and AML function within a supportive, low-pressure environment.
• Direct engagement with senior leadership and board, with autonomy to make a meaningful impact.

This role represents a unique chance for experienced compliance professionals to step into a pivotal position where they can lead both the compliance and AML functions in a balanced, well-supported bank setting.