Job Title:                   Head of Compliance & MLRO (SMF 16 & SMF 17)- UK

Industry:                    Banking

Location:                  United Kingdom

Salary:
Competitive package + bonus + comprehensive benefits

 

Job Purpose:
 

The Head of Compliance & MLRO is the senior manager accountable for Compliance Oversight (SMF 16) and Money Laundering Reporting (SMF 17) under the FCA/PRA’s Senior Managers & Certification Regime. The role provides independent assurance to the Board and Senior Management that the Bank operates in full compliance with applicable regulatory requirements, with a key focus on financial crime prevention. The role reports to the Chief Risk Officer, with direct escalation rights to the Chair of the Board Risk Committee.

 

Key Responsibilities:

Maintain and oversee the Bank’s Compliance and Financial Crime Frameworks, including the annual Compliance Monitoring Plan. Ensure full adherence to FCA, PRA, JMLSG, POCA, MLR 2022, and related UK regulations. Act as the primary point of contact with the FCA, PRA, NCA, and law enforcement bodies for compliance and AML matters. Serve as the registered MLRO, responsible for receiving, investigating, and reporting Suspicious Activity Reports (SARs). Oversee and continuously improve systems and controls for AML, CDD, EDD, sanctions screening, transaction monitoring, and fraud prevention. Provide regulatory advice across the business and ensure compliance input into new products, services, and promotions. Lead the delivery of regular Compliance and AML training for staff and the Board. Present regular Compliance and Financial Crime MI and reports to the Board Risk Committee. Lead and develop the Compliance and Financial Crime team, ensuring appropriate SMCR certifications and performance standards. Cultivate a strong compliance culture and embed conduct, risk awareness, and customer fairness throughout the Bank.

 

Qualifications and Experience:

Bachelor’s degree or higher in Law, Finance, Business, or related discipline. Minimum of 10 years’ senior-level experience in compliance and financial crime within the UK banking or financial services sector. In-depth knowledge of the FCA Handbook (e.g. SYSC, COND, COBS), PRA Rulebook, UK AML regulations, and Financial Crime legislation. Previous or current holder of SMF 16 and/or SMF 17 is strongly preferred. Professional certification (e.g. ICA, CAMS, ACAMS, CISI) is essential. Legal or accountancy qualification is desirable but not mandatory. Strong communication, leadership, and stakeholder management skills. Proven ability to work under pressure and deliver clear, decisive compliance advice to Board and senior leadership.

 

What the role Offers.

Strategic influence at senior executive and Board levels Opportunity to build and lead a high-performing Compliance function Private healthcare, pension contributions, and professional development support A purpose-driven banking environment focused on compliance, risk management, and integrity