Compliance Associate

EmpowerRD is a fast-growing start-up based in London, UK. Our vision is to assist our clients to unlock all the funding that rewards innovation globally. We do this by combining expert knowledge and advanced technology to take the complexity out of claiming for funding that is available.

Our current focus is on helping companies within the UK unlock some of the £5Bn of funds available annually for companies that invest in research and development.

ABOUT THE JOB:

You will work within the Finance team and you will play a critical role in ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements by supporting key operational processes. Your responsibilities will include screening all our clients, managing ongoing monitoring activities, and identifying potential AML risks. You will conduct due diligence, assess risk levels, and collaborate with the team to maintain a robust prevention framework. This role requires strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and the ability to navigate complex regulatory requirements in a fast-paced environment.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• KYB (Know Your Business): Conduct due diligence on corporate clients and partners, including verification of business registration, ownership structure, and beneficial owners (UBOs).
• KYC (Know Your Customer): Review and validate individual customer documents (e.g., ID, proof of address) in line with internal risk standards.
• AML Screening: Perform PEP, sanctions, and adverse media screening using internal tools and third-party platforms. Investigate matches and escalate where necessary.
• Ongoing Monitoring: Conduct periodic reviews of customer files, monitor transaction activity, and support enhanced due diligence (EDD) on higher-risk clients.
• Escalations & Reporting: Identify red flags and escalate suspicious activity in a timely manner, preparing clear case files and SAR recommendations where appropriate.
• Policy Adherence: Maintain a strong understanding of internal AML/CTF policies and ensure all processes and monitoring activities are fully compliant.
• Record-Keeping: Ensure audit-ready documentation is maintained for all checks and review cases, in accordance with regulatory requirements.

SKILLS AND QUALIFICATIONS:

• Prior experience in AML/Compliance, particularly within professional services, fintech, or taxtech.
• Familiarity with UK AML regulations, including Money Laundering Regulations 2017.
• Working knowledge of customer due diligence (CDD), EDD, and risk scoring frameworks.
• Strong analytical skills and attention to detail with the ability to identify patterns or anomalies.
• Excellent communication skills and the ability to write concise summaries and risk justifications.
• Familiarity with AML/CTF regulations and compliance standards.
• Comfortable working in a fast-moving, high-growth environment.

BENEFITS:

• Competitive salary.
• Flexible Working (our current policy is two days per week in our Old Street, London office).
• Health benefits.
• Career growth including leadership and innovation.
• Continuous learning for professional and personal growth.

OUR VALUES:

EmpowerRD has a strong set of values that permeate our culture and define how we work. You should consider whether these align with your personal values and style when considering this role.

• Lead with integrity : We do the right thing by our team, client and stakeholders. We find the right solution, not the first solution. We build trust through our technology and relationships.
• Professionalism in engagement : We are reliable and dependable in our behaviour. We are an authority in our subject matter - we know what we're talking about. We invest in learning. We are respectful in our communication.
• Bold in outlook : We are an innovative organisation and invest in innovation in our technology, our processes and ourselves. We are bold in our actions. We are market leading in our thinking and services. We are driven by data.
• Proactive in focus : We have a growth mindset. We're not afraid of taking considered risks. We learn from mistakes and continuously improve. We don't wait to be told, we act as an example.
• Approachable in style : We see ourselves as an enabler of a wider ecosystem. We support each other and grow together. We are a team that is fun and positive. We make ourselves accessible to our teams, clients and stakeholders. We take ownership of our actions.