Head of Compliance

Head of Compliance | FinTech & Payments (Start-up)

We’re supporting a start-up regulated financial services business that has recently been awarded it's MICA license in Malta with the appointment of a Head of Compliance to lead and further develop its compliance function.

This is a hands-on leadership role offering the opportunity to work closely with C-Level, the company’s MLRO and operational teams, taking ownership of the day-to-day compliance function while strengthening the processes, controls and systems needed to support the business as it grows.

The company has a separately appointed MLRO, with the Head of Compliance working closely alongside them on AML/CFT and financial crime matters.

The Role

You’ll be responsible for:

• Leading and developing the day-to-day compliance function
• Overseeing corporate onboarding, KYB, EDD, client risk assessments and ongoing monitoring
• Managing transaction monitoring, sanctions and PEP screening, and compliance escalations, working closely with the MLRO on AML/CFT matters
• Reviewing complex corporate structures, UBO arrangements and higher-risk client relationships
• Developing and improving compliance policies, procedures, internal controls and operational workflows
• Monitoring the effectiveness of compliance processes and identifying areas for improvement
• Leading and supporting the compliance team, providing technical guidance and helping develop the function as the business grows
• Working closely with senior management and other departments on regulatory, risk and governance matters
• Supporting the compliance requirements surrounding new payment products, services and business initiatives

What We're Looking For

• Preferably more than 4 years' experience within compliance, AML/CFT, financial crime or regulatory roles in banking, payments, an EMI/PI, FinTech or another regulated financial services environment
• Strong hands-on experience with corporate/KYB onboarding, EDD and risk assessments
• Practical knowledge of transaction monitoring and financial crime controls
• Good understanding of European AML/CFT requirements and risk-based compliance frameworks
• Previous experience leading or mentoring compliance professionals
• A relevant professional qualification such as ICA, CAMS or equivalent
• Strong communication skills in English

Experience within the Maltese regulatory environment, payments, crypto/digital assets or other higher-risk sectors would be considered an advantage.

What's on Offer?

The opportunity to join a growing regulated FinTech business at an important stage of its development, with direct exposure to senior leadership and genuine scope to influence how the compliance function develops and scales.

The company offers an attractive remuneration package, flexible working arrangements (including the opportunity of fully remote work) and opportunities for professional growth as the business continues to expand.

Interested in the opportunity?

We’d like to hear from you. Apply with us to find out more about the role.

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