Head of Financial Crimes Compliance & UK MLRO

Blockchain.com is a leading software platform dedicated to digital assets, aiming to create an open, accessible, and equitable financial future through innovative coding. We are looking for a dynamic compliance leader to become the Head of Financial Crimes Compliance and UK MLRO within our rapidly growing team. Reporting to the Global Chief Compliance Officer, this role focuses on ensuring regulatory compliance frameworks are met in Europe.

We seek a self-driven, adaptable professional who thrives in ambiguity and enjoys contributing to constructive initiatives. As the Head of Financial Crimes Compliance and UK MLRO, your responsibilities include strategizing and executing the company’s financial crimes compliance strategy, overseeing the global financial crimes function, and acting as the U.K. MLRO.

If you have experience in fast-paced environments and seek to be part of a pioneering compliance team in the crypto asset sector, this could be the perfect opportunity for you.

Responsibilities

• Leadership in developing and managing the global financial crimes compliance program to align with regulatory requirements and the company’s risk tolerance.
• Acting as a reliable advisor to the CCO and leadership team on financial crime risks and compliance issues.
• Fulfilling the role of UK MLRO and maintaining contact with the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) and other relevant regulators, as required with licensing enhancements.
• Representing the company in regulatory inspections, audits, and inquiries including handling AML/CTF-related reporting, notifications, and official communications.
• Supervising a team of global MLROs, facilitating development and implementing risk-based programs in alignment with corporate objectives across licensed regions.
• Establishing and advancing compliance processes by driving innovation and efficiency through robust risk-based program management, technological utilization, and data analytics.
• Ensuring timely submission of Suspicious Activity Reports (SARs) and other regulatory filings adhering to jurisdictional requirements.
• Monitoring changes in global financial crime laws and regulations, and deploying necessary updates to the compliance program promptly.
• Conducting periodic risk assessments to identify improvement opportunities in financial crime controls by assessing customer profiles, transaction trends, and service offerings.
• Collaborating closely with cross-functional teams such as Product, Engineering, Legal, and Business units to evaluate AML/CTF implications in new product and service development.
• Partnering with the global Compliance function in various areas including onboarding, screening, transaction monitoring, investigations, risk assessments, audits, exams, training, and critical compliance processes.
• Creating and presenting MLRO reports on compliance risk management workflows for senior management and the Board of Directors.
• Engaging actively with the compliance community in the crypto industry to stay informed of best practices.
• Managing additional duties assigned by the Chief Compliance Officer.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Law, Criminal Justice, or a related field.
• Minimum of 7 years' experience in AML/CTF and compliance.
• At least 4 years of experience in people and team management.
• Over 3 years of experience within FinTech, Crypto, or payment services domains.
• Proven background in building compliance programs from inception.
• Strong leadership and team management abilities, fostering high-performing team development.
• Extensive experience engaging with regulators, auditors, and banking partners, to engage with regulators, auditors, and bank partners.
• Deep understanding of global AML/CTF regulations with an interest in cryptocurrency and virtual asset legislation.
• Excellent communication skills both written and verbal, effective organizational skills, and time management.
• A strategic problem solver with a hands-on approach and strong analytical capabilities.
• High level of integrity and sound judgment demonstrable throughout their work.

Compensation & Perks

• Opportunity to be a significant contributor and advance your career in a rapidly expanding global technology firm in an emergent field.
• Bonus scheme tied to both company and individual performance.
• Unlimited vacation policy to maintain a healthy work-life balance.
• Apple equipment provided for work use.
• Hybrid role based in the London office.

At Blockchain, we champion diversity and inclusion, serving as an equal opportunity employer that prohibits discrimination and harassment based on various characteristics. Our hiring decisions are solely based on qualifications, competence, and current business needs.