Financial Crime Specialist

Overview

Our client, a growing UK specialist bank, is seeking a Financial Crime Specialist to join their First Line Risk function. This is a unique opportunity to contribute to a high-performing team within a bank that focuses on under-served segments of the UK market, with a strong presence in SME lending and customer savings.

The Financial Crime Specialist will play a critical role in maintaining the integrity of the bank’s operations, acting as a key point of contact for financial crime prevention, client due diligence, and fraud oversight.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform Enhanced Due Diligence (EDD) for high-risk customers and prepare comprehensive reports for the Money Laundering Reporting Officer (MLRO)
• Conduct investigations in collaboration with the 2nd Line Financial Crime team, supporting the submission of Suspicious Activity Event (SAE) reports
• Provide expert guidance to internal teams on high-risk scenarios and regulatory requirements
• Monitor and investigate fraud alerts, escalating findings where appropriate
• Support Financial Crime Analysts in performing onboarding and ongoing KYC checks, including screening and transaction monitoring
• Maintain accurate KYC/AML records and ensure all customer due diligence information is current and complete
• Contribute to first-line assurance reviews, ensuring compliance with internal policies and risk appetite
• Assist in embedding compliance procedures into operational processes and standard operating procedures
• Mentor and support junior team members and business stakeholders to improve understanding of financial crime policies
• Participate in cross-functional AML and KYC-related projects

Candidate Profile

• Strong professional background in financial crime or financial services compliance
• Solid knowledge of UK AML frameworks, including JMLSG guidance, the FCA Handbook, Money Laundering Regulations (MLRs), and FATF recommendations
• Proven experience in KYC/CDD processes, particularly onboarding of sole traders, partnerships, and limited companies
• Ability to interpret and advise on complex corporate structures
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Strong analytical mindset and attention to detail
• Ability to work independently and manage competing priorities

This is an ideal opportunity for a financial crime professional seeking to join a values-driven organisation where specialist knowledge and integrity are highly valued. The successful candidate will be based in London, working on a hybrid model with no business travel expected.