Chief AML Officer & MLRO (Remote)

About the Opportunity
A start-up Maltese licensed EMI that has recently successfully obtained its MICA license, is seeking an experienced Chief AML Officer & MLRO to lead and oversee its Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Terrorist Financing (AML/CFT) function.
This is a senior leadership appointment with significant regulatory responsibility and direct engagement with the regulator. The successful candidate will play a pivotal role in shaping the organisation's compliance framework, supporting business growth within a robust risk management environment, and ensuring the institution maintains the highest standards of regulatory compliance.
The role offers the opportunity to join an ambitious business at a key stage of its growth journey and to help build and strengthen the compliance function alongside senior leadership.
Key Responsibilities
Regulatory & Compliance Leadership
Serve as the primary point of contact for regulatory authorities on AML/CFT matters.
Maintain strong regulatory relationships through proactive engagement and timely reporting.
Lead regulatory inspections, reviews, audits, and information requests.
Ensure ongoing compliance with applicable AML/CFT legislation, regulations, and regulatory guidance.
Prepare and submit statutory reports and regulatory disclosures.
AML/CFT Framework Management
Design, implement, and continuously enhance the institution's AML/CFT framework.
Maintain enterprise-wide AML/CFT risk assessments covering customer, product, geographic, and delivery channel risks.
Oversee transaction monitoring, sanctions screening, PEP screening, adverse media monitoring, and related controls.
Manage customer onboarding and enhanced due diligence processes.
Develop risk-based policies and procedures that support both regulatory compliance and commercial objectives.
Financial Crime Prevention
Review and assess suspicious activity escalations and determine appropriate reporting actions.
Manage suspicious transaction reporting obligations and maintain comprehensive records.
Liaise with relevant authorities regarding AML/CFT investigations and requests for information.
Ensure effective monitoring and mitigation of financial crime risks across the organisation.
Governance & Stakeholder Management
Provide regular reporting to senior management and the Board on compliance risks, regulatory developments, and key metrics.
Develop and deliver AML/CFT training programmes across the business.
Lead compliance monitoring activities and internal reviews.
Support the governance of key banking, payment, and strategic partner relationships from a compliance perspective.
Requirements
Essential
Preferably 5 years' experience within AML/CFT, compliance, financial crime, or regulatory functions within a regulated financial services environment.
Previous experience as an MLRO, Deputy MLRO, or senior compliance professional.
Strong knowledge of AML/CFT legislation, regulatory expectations, and risk-based compliance frameworks.
Experience managing relationships with regulators and supervisory authorities.
Hands-on experience with transaction monitoring, sanctions screening, and customer due diligence processes.
Proven ability to assess, investigate, and manage suspicious activity reporting obligations.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English.
Highly Desirable
Previous experience within an Electronic Money Institution (EMI), Payment Institution (PI), bank, or regulated financial services provider.
Exposure to payments, fintech, iGaming, digital assets, crypto, or other higher-risk sectors.
Professional AML qualifications such as CAMS, ICA, or equivalent.
Experience implementing or managing financial crime technology platforms and monitoring systems.
Knowledge of PSD2, electronic money regulations, and wider European financial services regulation.
What's on Offer
Opportunity to hold a key regulatory leadership position within a regulated financial institution.
Direct exposure to senior leadership, strategic decision-making, and regulatory engagement.
The chance to shape and develop the compliance function during an exciting growth phase.
Competitive remuneration package aligned with experience and regulatory expertise.
A collaborative environment where compliance is viewed as a strategic business partner.
If you are an experienced AML/CFT professional looking to take ownership of a high-impact regulatory role within a growing financial services business, we would be interested in hearing from you.

Work arrangement
Yes