Financial Crime Compliance/KYC Manager

Saffery Llp; City of Westminster; On-site; GBP 65,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading financial services firm in the City of Westminster is searching for a KYC/AML Manager to oversee compliance and lead a dedicated team. This hands-on position will involve ensuring adherence to KYC policies, making critical decisions on business relationships, and driving efficiencies in AML operations. Ideal candidates will have proven experience in managing KYC/AML processes and fostering team growth. The firm offers a competitive salary, flexible working arrangements, and a comprehensive benefits package.

Benefits

Profit Sharing Plan

Flexible working arrangements

Home office allowance

Qualifications

• Proven experience at Manager level in KYC/AML.
• Experience in an accountancy firm.
• Deep CDD/EDD expertise with complex client structures.

Responsibilities

• Oversee day-to-day execution of AML/KYC procedures.
• Approve new business relationships and EDD clients.
• Support tech-driven improvements for efficiency.

Skills

Leadership

Client risk assessment

Strong people skills

Education

Experience in Professional Services

Proven experience in KYC/AML

Job description

Overview

Financial Crime Compliance/KYC Manager - 15-month FTC. We're offering an exciting opportunity for a seasoned KYC/AML professional to take the lead in a fast-paced, high-impact environment. As a Manager and team leader, you'll oversee the day-to-day execution of AML/KYC procedures while guiding and mentoring a small, dedicated team. Take the Lead in KYC & AML Operations. This is a hands-on role with real impact, perfect for someone who thrives in a fast-paced environment and knows how to manage a busy workload with precision.

As a Manager, you'll be at the heart of a wide range of CDD responsibilities, including:

• Driving compliance: Ensure firm-wide KYC policies and procedures are applied consistently across new or existing clients.
• Making critical decisions: Approve new business relationships and the continuation of existing business relationships, including a limited mandate to approve Enhanced Due Diligence (EDD) risk triggers/clients.
• Being the go-to expert: Act as a key contact for the business, enabling timely and high-quality CDD/KYC completion and query resolution.
• Empowering your team: Build capability, share knowledge, and support career growth.
• Staying ahead: Keep up with evolving AML regulations and industry best practices.
• Innovation: Support tech-driven improvements that boost efficiency without compromising compliance (Saffery will be implementing a new KYC system during the FTC; some involvement in the system rollout will be an important aspect of the role).
• Improving processes: Spot opportunities to streamline and enhance service delivery.
• Inspiring confidence: Build strong stakeholder relationships and establish yourself as a trusted, empowering leader.
• Additional risk management tasks and projects as needed (not exhaustive).

Qualifications & Experience

• Proven experience at Manager level in KYC/AML; consideration for an Assistant Manager with 3+ years of relevant experience seeking the next step.
• Experience in Professional Services, ideally within an accountancy firm; extensive knowledge of AML regulations and application to CDD procedures.
• Deep CDD/EDD expertise with complex client structures (Trusts, Estates, Private Clients, Corporate Groups) and the associated risks.
• Regulatory precision in applying CDD procedures and delivering timely, high-quality outputs.
• Holistic client risk assessment (AML and beyond) with clear escalation when needed.
• Sector savvy with understanding of services offered and related risk management requirements.
• Strong people skills and relationship-building with client-facing teams and colleagues.
• Leadership mindset with experience leading teams, nurturing talent, and helping others grow.

Team & Workplace

The FCC team is well established and led by the firm's MLRO and Deputy MLRO, with full-time responsibility for overseeing the function. The team currently consists of 17 staff. Our London office is in the City with a large presence of partners and staff. Saffery is a firm of chartered accountants and business advisers with multiple offices in the UK and abroad.

Benefits & About Saffery

• A 35-hour working week
• Eligibility for Profit Sharing Plan (october–september cycle)
• Flexible working arrangements and home-working options (post-probation, with line manager approval)
• Home office allowance (£25/month where applicable)
• Competitive annual salary
• Eligibility for discretionary end-of-contract bonus (FTC)
• Twenty-five days annual leave
• Private medical insurance eligibility after probation
• Flexible benefits including holiday buy/sell up to five days per year
• Life assurance (four times salary)
• Interest-free season ticket loan on probation
• Contributory pension scheme (firm contributes 5% of salary; employee matches)
• Three-month probationary period
• Access to additional benefits (health screening, dental, optical, etc.)
• Reward gateway benefits for discounts

Equality, Diversity & Inclusion: Equality, diversity and inclusion is a top priority for us. Our ED&I strategy, Everyone Belongs, supports a positive work culture and inclusive practices.