Compliance Specialist - Client Risk Oversight Team

Overview of the role We are seeking an experienced Senior Compliance Specialist to join IFX’s Financial Crime Compliance function (Second Line of Defence). This is a high-impact role within the Client Risk Oversight team, responsible for providing independent oversight, challenge, and assurance over client onboarding, ongoing monitoring, and financial crime controls. The role offers significant exposure to high-risk corporate, institutional, and fintech/intermediary client relationships. Key Responsibilities 2LoD Oversight & Quality Assurance Perform independent quality assurance (QA) reviews of KYC onboarding and periodic review files Validate the effectiveness of 1LoD control execution, including control testing outputs Identify control weaknesses, systemic issues, and remediation actions Produce actionable management information (MI) and trend analysis Enhanced Due Diligence & Escalations Review, challenge, and approve high-risk onboarding and ongoing monitoring escalations Conduct in-depth EDD investigations on complex client relationships Draft robust, audit-ready risk assessments and escalation papers Escalate material cases to senior management, including MLRO/DMLRO where required Intermediary / Fintech Client Oversight Lead the onboarding and review of intermediary (fintech) client relationships Conduct on-site compliance monitoring visits and desktop reviews Assess client AML frameworks, governance standards, and operational controls Provide clear recommendations on risk acceptance and mitigation Control Testing & Framework Assurance Perform control testing over 2LoD controls and compliance frameworks Support thematic reviews and deep dives into key financial crime risk areas Identify gaps and contribute to strengthening the control environment Training & Stakeholder Advisory Deliver AML / KYC / sanctions training to operational and commercial teams Act as a trusted advisor to Sales, KYC, and wider business stakeholders Support embedding of a strong compliance culture Governance, Reporting & SARs Draft high-quality escalations, committee papers, and Board reporting inputs Prepare and submit Suspicious Activity Reports (SARs) where required Support governance forums (e.g. high-risk committees / working groups) Policy & Continuous Improvement Support the development and enhancement of: AML/KYC policies and procedures QA frameworks and methodologies Risk appetite and controls documentation Contribute to regulatory change initiatives and compliance projects Skills, Knowledge and Expertise Essential Strong experience in AML/Financial Crime Compliance, ideally within a regulated financial services firm Deep understanding of: KYC / CDD / EDD processes Sanctions, PEP screening, and adverse media Experience reviewing and challenging high-risk or complex client cases Proven ability to draft: Escalation papers Risk assessments SARs Excellent analytical, written, and communication skills Strong attention to detail and ability to apply risk-based judgement A true team player with a winning mentality and strong work ethic committed to continuous improvement and high performance. Adaptable, tenacious and flexible who can perform under pressure. Desirable Solid experience in a 2LoD Compliance role Experience with fintech / intermediary clients (PSPs, EMIs, platforms) Strong understanding of Corporate and Institutional clients Experience conducting compliance monitoring / on-site reviews Experience in policy drafting and governance reporting Proven track record in project management and stakeholder engagement Strong understanding of risk and controls frameworks. Success Measures (KPIs) Quality and consistency of QA output. Reduction in repeat findings / control failures. Timely and defensible escalation decisions. Positive audit / regulatory outcomes. Effectiveness of stakeholder engagement. Contribution to control framework improvements. Benefits We believe great people do their best work when they feel supported, rewarded, and empowered to grow. That’s why we offer a benefits package designed to support your career, wellbeing, finances, and life outside of work. 🌴 Time to Recharge 25 days’ annual leave, plus bank holidays An extra day off for your birthday Holiday loyalty scheme rewarding long-term service Work abroad scheme for added flexibility 💰 Financial Wellbeing Competitive pension scheme via salary exchange Annual discretionary bonus scheme (eligible after probation) Financial education, planning & coaching platform Interest-free Season Ticket Loan for London travel Salary exchange nursery fee scheme 🩺 Health & Wellbeing Life Insurance Healthcare platform including: Cashback on dental, optical & physio Virtual GP access Mental health and stress support helplines Additional wellbeing resources 👶 Family & Lifestyle Support Enhanced parental leave Cycle to work scheme Flexible benefits that support everyday life 🚀 Growth & Career Development Career development and progression tools Opportunities to grow within a fast-scaling international business 🎉 A Great Team Culture From sporting events and pub nights to seasonal celebrations and socials, we make time to connect and celebrate together. Diversity & Inclusion We believe that diversity and inclusion are essential to our success. We are committed to fostering a culture where everyone feels valued and respected, regardless of their background, identity or experiences. By embracing diverse perspectives and promoting equity, we aim to create an environment where all employees can perform and reach their full potential. What’s next? We will review your application and come back to you as soon as possible. You must be eligible to work in the UK to be considered for this position. Full background checks will be carried out on all successful candidates.