A market-leading fintech organisation is currently recruiting an MLRO & Head of Compliance to oversee regulatory compliance and financial crime risk across its UK operations.

About the Job
This senior leadership role is responsible for designing, implementing, and maintaining the organisations compliance and financial crime frameworks, ensuring adherence to UK regulatory requirements. Working closely with the Board and senior stakeholders, the position provides independent oversight, acts as the primary regulatory interface, and plays a critical role in safeguarding the integrity of regulated activities within a highly governed environment. The role is expected to hold Senior Management Functions SMF16 (Compliance Oversight) and SMF17 (MLRO), subject to regulatory approval.

Responsibilities

• Act as the designated MLRO with end-to-end accountability for AML, CTF, sanctions, and fraud risk management.
• Establish and maintain a robust, risk-based compliance framework aligned with UK regulatory expectations.
• Provide independent advice and challenge to the Board and senior management on regulatory and conduct matters
• Oversee suspicious activity reporting, financial crime risk assessments, and the effectiveness of monitoring controls.
• Lead engagement with the regulator, including supervisory interactions, reporting, and regulatory notifications.
• Review, approve, and enhance policies, procedures, and governance arrangements across the organisation.
• Promote a strong risk and compliance culture, supporting business change and product initiatives with regulatory input.

The Team

The role reports directly to the Board with independent access to relevant Board committees, operating as a key member of the senior leadership group with autonomy from day-to-day operations.

Skills and Experience
The successful candidate will bring significant experience operating as an MLRO and/or Head of Compliance within an FCA-regulated environment, such as payments, fintech, or broader financial services, with strong knowledge of the UK regulatory framework, AML/CTF regime, and conduct requirements. Demonstrated experience engaging directly with the regulator, overseeing transaction monitoring and onboarding controls, and exercising sound regulatory judgement is essential, alongside relevant professional qualifications and eligibility for Senior Management Function approval. A confident communicator with strong integrity and a pragmatic, risk-based approach will thrive in this position.

To apply, please click on the apply button or contact Perennial HR for a confidential discussion.