Anti-Money Laundering/ Counter-Terrorist Financing* (AML/CTF*) Manager, Internal Risk and Compliance

DescriptionThe Anti-Money Laundering/ Counter-Terrorist Financing* (AML/CTF*) Manager, Internal Risk and Compliance will join our Internal Risk and Compliance team in Sydney, Melbourne or Brisbane with the Commercial Real Estate practice group (Environment & Planning) in Sydney. This is an exciting opportunity for the role-holder to lead the operational implementation of Baker McKenzie’s AML/CTF Program, ensuring compliance with the Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Terrorism Financing Act 2006 (Cth) and the 2025 AML/CTF Rules. This role is critical as the legal profession transitions into Tranche 2 of the AML regime, with new obligations commencing from July 2026.The individual will work closely with Baker McKenzie’s global AML Compliance Service team (located overseas), our AML/CTF Compliance Officer, Risk & Compliance Special Counsel, legal teams, and firm leadership to embed AML/CTF controls into client workflows, manage risk-based processes, and support the firm’s readiness for independent evaluations.Main ResponsibilitiesServe as a key advisor on AML/CTF matters, including queries regarding third-party payers and billing requirementsIdentify issues and trends and monitor the market and regulatory environment to ensure the firm’s AML/CTF practices remain current and responsiveClient Due Diligence & Risk ManagementConduct initial and ongoing CDD, including identity verification, beneficial ownership checks, and source of funds/wealth analysis, supplementing the work performed by the firm’s global AML Compliance Service teamFacilitate communication and problem-solving between Partners and secretaries in Australia and the AML Compliance Service teamPerform enhanced due diligence (EDD) for high-risk clients, including politically exposed persons (PEPs) and complex structuresMaintain AML/CTF risk assessments and update them in response to regulatory changes or internal reviewsMonitor client transactions for red flags and escalate suspicious activity in accordance with AUSTRAC guidelinesCoordinate personnel due diligenceOperational OversightManage Australian aspects of AML workflows across matter intake, onboarding, and ongoing monitoringMaintain secure and auditable AML/CTF records, including client verification documents and internal registersAssist in drafting and submitting Suspicious Matter Reports (SMRs)Prepare internal AML/CTF reports for the Management Committee and governing bodyProgram Development & EvaluationSupport the development and continuous improvement of the firm’s AML/CTF ProgramCoordinate independent evaluations every three years and implement recommendationsAssist in preparing the firm’s annual compliance report to AUSTRACMonitor regulatory developments and industry trends to ensure the AML/CTF Program remains current and effectiveTraining & AwarenessMonitor third-party AML/CTF e-learning courseDeliver supplemental AML/CTF training to legal and support staff, tailored to designated services and risk profilesTrack e-learning and supplemental training completion and report on compliance metricsPromote a culture of compliance and ethical conduct across the FirmTechnology & InnovationCollaborate with IT and compliance teams to implement AML technology solutions (e.g., digital ID verification, automated risk scoring)Identify opportunities to streamline AML processes and improve operational efficiencySkills And ExperienceA bachelor’s degree in Law, Business, Finance, Risk Management, or a related fieldGood experience in AML/CTF or KYC compliance, preferably in legal, financial services, or consultingStrong knowledge of the AML/CTF Act, 2025 Rules, and AUSTRAC reporting obligationsExperience with onboarding, CDD/EDD, transaction monitoring, and SMR preparationFamiliar with legal privilege and confidentiality in a law firm contextExcellent analytical, communication, and stakeholder engagement skillsAble to manage competing priorities and work independentlyProficient with AML platforms and tools (e.g., digital ID verification platforms like Equifax, LexisNexis, or GBG; workflow systems like Intapp or iManage)About UsAbout Baker McKenzie Sydney:At Baker McKenzie, we are different in the way we think, work and behave. The first local, truly global law firm in Australia, we commenced operations in Sydney in 1964, in Melbourne in 1982 and in Brisbane in 2014. Our lawyers work seamlessly with our global colleagues, collectively providing a capacity of more than 13,000 people, including over 6,500 lawyers who work alongside our clients to drive growth that is both sustainable and inclusive. Baker McKenzie Australia can offer you access to complex, market-leading matters working with some of the world's best legal minds-people who know the law and who understand business.We have an unrivalled ability to provide training and secondment opportunities across our global network. Locally, we have an inclusive culture of learning, coaching and opportunity where you will work in small teams on matters that often cross borders. We value people who think ahead and get noticed.Additional InformationOur BenefitsFinancial benefits: competitive remuneration package, generous bonus scheme, salary continuance insurance, life insurance, salary sacrifice options, employee discounts, referral rewards, and travel insurance for you and your familyLearning & development opportunities: client and international office secondments and regional and global development programsFlexibility: Hybrid and flexible working arrangements to balance your work and lifestyleLeave: 26 weeks paid parental leave for all parents with no minimum service, ability to purchase additional annual leave and flexible public holidaysHealth & wellbeing programs: Employee Assistance Program including confidential counselling and wellbeing and financial coaching for you and your immediate family, flu vaccinations and discounted health insuranceInclusion, Diversity & EquityBaker McKenzie is committed to providing a diverse, inclusive and equitable culture for all its employees, with equal opportunity for all to progress and have a meaningful career with our Firm.As part of our inclusive culture, we welcome applications from people of all genders (including if you identify as transgender or gender diverse), sexual orientations, abilities, cultural backgrounds, as well as First Nations peoples and people with caring responsibilities, neurodivergent lived experiences and disabilities. We want all applicants to be given the best possible opportunity to succeed in our recruitment processes, so we invite you to let us know of any reasonable adjustments you require to equitably participate in our recruitment processes or in performing the requirements of a role at Baker McKenzie.We appreciate that everyone's needs are different. Please contact us so that we can work with you to best support you in our recruitment processes. We are happy to share accommodations we've made in the past and are keen to work with you personally to set you up for success.