Head of UK Compliance

Sterling Williams are supporting a growing Series–B Payment institution with their search for an experienced and strategic Head of UK Compliance to lead their compliance function within the UK market. The successful candidate will have payments/EMI industry and/or Crypto industry experience.

Head of UK Compliance

Permanent; Full–time

City of London – with 3 days per week in the office

Salary circa GBP125 – GBP140,000 pa plus benefits

This role will be pivotal in ensuring that the company meets all regulatory requirements while fostering a culture of compliance throughout the business. The successful candidate will serve as the primary point of contact with UK regulators, including the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), and will oversee all compliance–related activities within the region.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead UK compliance and develop strategies to ensure compliance with all applicable laws, regulations, and internal policies.
• Maintain and manage relationships with UK regulatory bodies, primarily the FCA, ensuring timely and effective communication.
• Oversee the implementation and maintenance of compliance programs, including AML, KYC, GDPR, and financial crime prevention.
• Conduct regular risk assessments and ensure appropriate controls are in place to mitigate compliance risks.
• Advise senior management and the board on compliance–related matters and emerging regulatory trends.
• Develop and deliver compliance training programs to ensure all employees understand their obligations.
• Monitor regulatory changes and advise on necessary adjustments to company policies and procedures.
• Prepare and submit regulatory reports, ensuring accuracy and adherence to deadlines.
• Collaborate with cross–functional teams, including Legal, Risk, and Operations, to support business objectives while ensuring compliance.
• Lead internal and external compliance audits and address any findings in a timely manner.

The successful candidate will likely have:

• Bachelor's degree in Law, Finance, Business, or a related field; relevant certifications (e.g., ICA, ACAMS) are highly desirable.
• Experience as a FCA approved individual within a Payments, FinTech, EMI or Crypto Business, or an experienced Deputy looking to step up.
• Extensive knowledge of UK financial regulations, including FCA guidelines, AML laws, and data protection regulations.
• Proven experience managing relationships with regulatory bodies.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, capable of influencing stakeholders at all levels.
• High level of integrity, attention to detail, and the ability to make sound judgments under pressure.