Compliance Manager

Vinson and Elkins; London; Hybrid; GBP 60,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a Compliance Officer to oversee regulatory compliance, particularly in anti-money laundering and data protection. This pivotal role involves developing and implementing compliance policies, conducting training, and ensuring adherence to SRA regulations. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in compliance within a law firm, showcasing strong analytical skills and attention to detail. Join a dynamic team that values integrity and professionalism, where your contributions will directly impact the firm's reputation and operational effectiveness.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of compliance experience in a law firm or similar environment.
• In-depth knowledge of AML/KYC regulations and SRA compliance.
• Excellent communication skills with strong attention to detail.

Responsibilities

• Ensure compliance with AML/KYC and SRA regulations for the Firm.
• Develop and implement compliance policies and training programs.
• Manage conflicts of interest and assist with client RFPs.

Skills

Compliance Management

Anti-Money Laundering (AML)

Know Your Customer (KYC)

Data Protection

Regulatory Compliance

Risk Analysis

Verbal Communication

Written Communication

Education

Bachelor's Degree

Qualified Solicitor or Barrister

Master's Degree or JD

Tools

Compliance Management Software

IntApp

MS Office

Job description

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Position Overview

Reporting to the General Counsel's office, this position will be responsible for ensuring the Firm's compliance with relevant laws and regulations. The primary focus will be on anti-money laundering, anti-bribery and corruption, anti-fraud and sanctions compliance for the Firm's London office. This will include AML/KYC oversight, advising on new matter clearances (including ethical and reputational issues), and the development, implementation and maintenance of related policies and procedures. It will also involve sanctions compliance, SRA compliance, and conflicts management for the international offices. Additionally, the role includes secondary responsibilities such as data protection, assisting with client RFPs in conjunction with Business Development, and reviewing employment agreements and HR issues as required.

Primary Duties and Responsibilities

• Provide, develop and implement matter risk analysis which supports the assessment of legal, regulatory and reputational risk arising from the Firm's new and ongoing engagements, business relationships, and Firm matters.
• Advising, analyzing, and responding to queries on issues of AML and sanctions, including KYC, EDD, source of funds, source of wealth, PEPS and UBOs.
• Maintain AML and KYC policies and procedures. Understand and ensure compliance with AML/KYC regulations and internal and external rules, regulations and procedures.
• Arranging and implementing regular training to all partners and employees on AML/KYC requirements as needed.
• Monitor new regulations and guidance and attend seminars and conferences to keep up to date on changes.
• Review and update suppliers' contracts and terms; NDAs, outside counsel/client own terms making changes to engagement letters to reflect any changes.
• Consider risks when using new software or AI, undertaking full assessments where necessary.
• Keep stakeholders updated regularly by participating in regular risk and compliance meetings.
• Ensure the Firm adheres to all SRA regulations and guidelines to include renewing Practicing Certificates, being the main point of contact for all SRA standards or regulatory questions.
• Liaise with the Firm's General Counsel, COFA, COLP and MLRO on all of the Firm's regulatory reporting obligations.
• Provide guidance and training to all partners and employees on SRA standards and regulations.
• Lead on all regulatory and reporting audits.
• Identify and manage any potential conflicts of interest in connection with new clients, new matters and new parties.
• Review Outside Counsel Guidelines provided by clients and work with the Firm's conflicts attorneys and wider team.
• Provide support and guidance to partners and employees on conflicts resolution.

Secondary Duties and Responsibilities

• Ensure the Firm is compliant with GDPR and Data Protection to include investigating data breaches including the Firm's obligation to report any breaches to the Information Commissioner's Office.
• Deal with all Data Subject Access Requests to include reviewing documents, redaction and compiling responses as necessary.
• Develop and implement data protection policies and procedures and provide training as required.
• Assist other departments with client RFPs, ensuring the Firm remains compliant with legal and regulatory compliance.
• Review and provide advice on employment contracts to ensure all agreements comply with employment laws and regulations, collaborating and assisting on any HR-related compliance issues.

Working Conditions

• Travel to other office locations as needed.
• Job is subject to time pressures and constraints.
• In office requirement, four days, one day work from home.

Education:

• Qualified solicitor or barrister in the UK preferable.
• Bachelor's Degree required; master's degree, Legal qualification or JD is a plus.

Experience:

• Minimum of 5 years of experience in a compliance role within a law firm or similar environment.
• Previous experience in managing outside counsel relationships.

Special Knowledge:

• In-depth knowledge of AML/KYC regulations, sanctions, SRA compliance, and conflicts.

Technical Skills:

• Experience with compliance management software and familiarity with IntApp or similar technology. Proficient in use of MS Office applications.

Attributes:

• This position requires excellent written and verbal communication skills with strong attention to detail and consistency.
• Ability to interact with people at all levels.
• Self-starter with ability to prioritise and use own initiative.
• Must be able to work independently and with a team, in a fast-paced and demanding environment, with tolerance, flexibility and adaptability; ability to work well, professionally, and closely with business professionals, attorneys and Firm leadership.
• Detail-oriented with the skill to handle sensitive and/or confidential documents and see projects through to completion.