Head of Compliance & MLRO (SMF16/17) – London

About the role

We are seeking an experienced Head of Compliance and Money Laundering Reporting Officer (MLRO) to lead the UK compliance and financial crime function for a well‑established financial services business. The role is hybrid, requiring three days a week in the London office, and offers full responsibility for the UK regulated entity.

Key responsibilities

• Hold SMF16 and SMF17 regulatory responsibilities for the UK entity.
• Oversee day‑to‑day compliance and financial crime activities, ensuring the framework remains robust and up‑to‑date.
• Monitor regulatory developments, conduct horizon scanning and translate new rules into practical actions.
• Provide pragmatic regulatory advice to senior stakeholders and maintain strong relationships across the organisation.
• Maintain and enhance compliance policies, procedures and controls.
• Lead compliance monitoring, testing and regulatory reporting as required.
• Collaborate with the wider European compliance team while acting as the primary UK compliance lead.

Required profile

• Current holder of, or approved for, SMF16 and SMF17 approvals within an FCA‑regulated environment.
• Proven experience in both general compliance and financial crime compliance.
• Commercially minded, able to work autonomously and challenge the status quo.
• Demonstrated ability to scan regulatory horizons and implement practical business changes.
• Strong relationship‑building skills across all organisational levels.
• Hands‑on approach, comfortable executing tasks as well as setting strategy.

Required skills

What we offer

• Competitive salary up to £140,000 per year plus benefits.
• Permanent, full‑time contract.
• Hybrid working model (3 days in‑office).
• Opportunity to lead a mature compliance function within a reputable financial services firm.