Chief Compliance Officer

About the Firm: This position is for one of our clients, a leading mobile money operator in the African region. As part of a prominent group of companies comprising numerous regulated entities, our client boasts a decades-long history, a robust market presence, and a highly respected brand. They are known for their innovative financial solutions and their significant contribution to financial inclusion across Africa. The group is currently establishing a UK-based company that will seek authorisation from the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) as an electronic money institution (EMI).Role Overview: Our client is seeking an experienced and diligent Chief Compliance Officer to take a pivotal role in ensuring the company’s full adherence to all applicable legal, regulatory, and internal compliance requirements. Reporting directly to the Board of Directors, the Chief Compliance Officer will support the company’s governance by managing regulatory compliance programs, overseeing policies and procedures, and helping build a strong compliance culture.This is a key role suitable for a proactive, knowledgeable, and independent compliance professional.Key Responsibilities:Ensure compliance with UK laws, FCA regulations, and internal policies.Keep management, employees, and the Board informed of regulatory changes and compliance obligations.Identify, assess, and help mitigate compliance risks across the organisation.Build and promote a compliance-oriented culture, delivering training and awareness sessions.Develop and execute the annual compliance monitoring plan.Represent the company in communications with the FCA and other relevant authorities.Design and monitor internal controls to prevent regulatory breaches and policy violations.Evaluate the effectiveness of compliance controls and implement improvements.Oversee compliance with outsourcing agreements and third-party governance.Provide legal advice and guidance on contractual, regulatory, and operational matters.Prepare and submit regulatory filings and reports as required.Participate in configuration and management of compliance-related technology, including AML/CTF/CPF/sanctions tools.Provide compliance input into new product/service design to ensure regulatory alignment.Escalate unresolved compliance deficiencies to the Board of Directors.Fulfil additional responsibilities outlined in internal compliance policies and governance documents.Candidate Requirements:Demonstrable experience in a compliance or legal role within an e-money or payment institution.Strong working knowledge of UK financial services regulation, including FCA rules and guidance.Experience engaging with regulators and managing regulatory obligations.Familiarity with AML/CTF/CPF/sanctions regimes and supporting compliance systems.Legal background or relevant qualifications in compliance, risk, or regulation preferred (e.g., ICA, ACAMS, LLB, LLM).Strong communication, analytical, and organisational skills.Why Join:Competitive salary package and performance-based incentives.Influence and shape the company’s compliance and risk strategy from inception.Work directly with the Board and executive leadership.Competitive compensation and career progression in a high-impact regulatory function.