Head of Financial Crime- SMF17

Location: (Hybrid)
Sector: Investment Management

Overview

As the Head of Financial Crime you will be responsible for ensuring that the firm complies with its obligations under UK anti-money laundering (AML), counter-terrorist financing (CTF), and broader financial crime legislation and regulation. Acting as the firm’s FCA-approved SMF17, the MLRO will oversee financial crime systems and controls, manage suspicious activity reporting, and provide strategic guidance to the business on mitigating financial crime risks.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Lead the implementation, and maintenance of AML/CTF and financial crime prevention frameworks.
  • Provide regular management information and reports to your reporting line, the Board and senior stakeholders.
  • Keep up to date with regulatory developments and industry best practices, advising the business on changes.
  • Receive, review, and investigate internal suspicious activity reports (SARs), escalating to the National Crime Agency (NCA) as appropriate.
  • Provide leadership, guidance, and mentorship to the compliance/financial crime team.
  • Deliver AML/CTF training to staff and promote a strong compliance culture across the organisation.
  • Act as the primary liaison with regulators, law enforcement, and auditors on financial crime matters.

What You’ll Bring

  • Significant experience in a senior compliance monitoring or assurance role within an FCA-regulated firm, ideally in wealth & Investment management
  • Previously held the SMF17 is essential.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with confidence to engage with regulators and senior stakeholders.
  • Expert knowledge of UK AML/CTF legislation and FCA regulatory requirements.
  • Strong leadership skills with the ability to influence at all levels of the business.