Head of Compliance & MLRO

Do you want to play a pivotal role in one of the most vibrant financial markets globally? Are you excited about the chance to influence the future of banking in Japan and lead the way in innovation and growth? If so, we have an exceptional opportunity for you!

Banking Circle is a fintech and fun all in one. We are on a journey to become payment pioneers. Every day up to 2 million payments run through our platform. We work closely with central banks and clients worldwide to constantly improve the payment flow. Banking Circle was founded less than 10 years ago, and today we are a fully licensed bank with 700 colleagues in 8 countries. We are still growing rapidly, and we invite you to join us and experience a fun and international workplace, where people prefer to come to the office rather than work from home.

Your team welcomes you with open arms
As our new Head of Compliance / Money Laundering Responsible Officer (MLRO) in our team in Japan, you’ll experience an open and knowledge driven culture, where everyone can thrive, connect with colleagues, learn and grow. Here you will be empowered to make an impact every day.
You will play a crucial role in the expansion of our bank’s strategy in the Japanese market, ensuring compliance with all relevant compliance and anti-money laundering (AML) and counter-terrorist financing (CTF) regulations. This position requires a strategic thinker with strong leadership skills and extensive knowledge of Japanese banking and/or payment regulations, AML/CTF laws and regulations, and local compliance guidelines.
You will report to the General Manager of Japan and functionally to the APAC Head of Compliance & MLRO.

Exciting work is waiting for you

• Identification of the main laws, rules and standards to which Banking Circle is subject in conducting its business in Japan
• Identification and assessment of the compliance risk associated with Banking Circle´s Japan business and expansion into new activities, products or business relationships
• Develop, implement, and maintain Compliance & AML/CTF policies and procedures for Japan, ensuring the bank's Compliance & AML/CTF programs comply with all relevant Japanese regulations
• Serve as point of contact with the regulators, including on licensing matters, compliance and AML/CTF matters, manage regulatory reporting and filings.
• Conduct regular Compliance Risk Assessments and verification of Banking Circle’s adherence to Japan- related compliance policies, procedures and rules
• Work closely with the first line Business AML operations team, to review, assess and resolve escalations on customers and transactions.
• Act as the main contact for AML/CTF inquiries and investigations and report suspicious activities to authorities and keep detailed records.
• Report on Japan Compliance & AML/CTF to senior management, compliance risk committees and the board as necessary.
• Lead the roll out and ongoing management of Japan specific Compliance & AML/CFT Training

Things we’ll look for on your resume
To be the ideal candidate for this position, you should have at least 8 years of experience in Compliance and AML/CTF, preferably within the banking and/or cross-border payments sector. Professional certifications such as CAMS or CFCS are highly desirable. You must possess in-depth knowledge of Banking/Fintech/Payments & AML/CTF laws & regulations, compliance software and best practices both in Japan and internationally.
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills are crucial, along with the ability to interpret complex regulatory requirements, and being able to implement and deliver solutions Excellent communication and interpersonal skills are necessary to interact effectively with all levels of the organization and external stakeholders.
You should be a strong team player who thrives in a fast-paced and dynamic environment, with a deep understanding of cultural and business practices in Japan.
Banking Circle is an international company, our internal workforce consists of over 50 nationalities, and we collaborate with clients and partners worldwide. Therefore, you’ll need to be fluent in English and Japanese.

Go ahead and take the first step
We are looking forward to hearing from you. We review applications and interview candidates continuously. Please note that we don’t accept or consider CVs received through email or direct messages.

If you have questions, please reach out to Kheira NOUGAL, Global Recruitment Partner from People Team on [email protected] . No recruitment agencies please.

Lokation: Tokyo (JP)