About the Role
Our client, a well-established financial institution, is looking for a dedicated Senior Compliance Officer to focus on FICA (Financial Intelligence Centre Act) and AML (Anti-Money Laundering) regulations. This role is based in Queenstown, Eastern Cape, and offers a Hybrid work arrangement, blending office-based responsibilities with remote flexibility. The Senior Compliance Officer will play a crucial part in ensuring the company adheres to all FICA and AML requirements, mitigating risks associated with financial crime, and maintaining regulatory compliance within the Banking & Finance sector. You will be responsible for implementing and monitoring compliance programs, conducting risk assessments, and assisting in regulatory audits. This position demands a keen eye for detail, a strong understanding of regulatory frameworks, and excellent investigative skills. Your contribution will be vital in upholding the company's integrity and reputation.
Key Responsibilities
- Implement and maintain robust FICA and AML compliance policies and procedures.
- Conduct ongoing monitoring and analysis of customer accounts and transactions to detect suspicious activities.
- Perform customer due diligence (CDD) and enhanced due diligence (EDD) on clients, especially those deemed high-risk.
- Prepare and submit Suspicious Transaction Reports (STRs) and Suspicious Activity Reports (SARs) to the Financial Intelligence Centre (FIC).
- Conduct regular compliance risk assessments and identify areas for improvement.
- Assist in preparing for and responding to regulatory examinations and audits by the FIC and other relevant authorities.
- Develop and deliver FICA and AML training programs to relevant staff across the organization.
- Stay abreast of changes in FICA, AML, and counter-terrorist financing (CTF) legislation and guidance.
- Investigate and resolve compliance issues and breaches reported through internal channels.
- Liaise with internal stakeholders, including operations, legal, and audit departments, on compliance matters.
Requirements
- Bachelor's degree in Law, Finance, Accounting, or a related field.
- Relevant certifications (e.g., ICA, CAMS) are highly advantageous.
- Minimum of 5 years of experience in compliance, specifically focusing on FICA and AML regulations within the financial services industry.
- Thorough understanding of South African FICA and AML/CTF legislative framework and related guidance.
- Proven experience in conducting customer due diligence, transaction monitoring, and suspicious activity reporting.
- Strong analytical and investigative skills with meticulous attention to detail.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- Proficiency in using compliance monitoring software and MS Office Suite.
- Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a team in a Hybrid environment.
- High ethical standards and a commitment to maintaining confidentiality.
- Experience in report writing and presenting compliance findings.
Benefits
- Competitive salary and performance-related incentives.
- Hybrid working model offering a balance of office and remote work.
- Comprehensive medical aid benefits.
- Pension fund membership with employer contributions.
- Opportunities for professional development and specialized compliance training.
- A supportive team environment within a reputable financial institution in Queenstown, Eastern Cape.
- Generous annual leave and company holidays.