Head of Risk and Compliance

MERJE Ltd; Lancashire; Hybrid; GBP 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid working (3 days in office)

Private healthcare

Discretionary bonus

Contributory pension

Generous annual leave

Job summary

MERJE is partnering with a highly regarded independent law firm in Greater Manchester to recruit a Head of Risk & Compliance / MLRO. The role offers hybrid working in South Manchester, with significant exposure to senior stakeholders and clear career progression, including potential partner-level opportunities.

The successful candidate will own the risk and compliance framework, ensure AML and SAR processes are robust, and provide strategic regulatory guidance while managing day-to-day

Qualifications

• Significant experience in a senior compliance position, ideally in law or professional services.
• Solid knowledge of SRA Standards and Regulations and AML requirements.
• Experience advising senior stakeholders on regulatory risk.

Responsibilities

• Lead and develop the firm's risk and compliance framework to meet SRA requirements.
• Act as MLRO, overseeing AML controls and SAR processes.
• Advise COLP, COFA and leadership on regulatory risk matters.
• Oversee risk assessments, audits and monitoring.

Skills

Senior compliance

AML regulations

SRA Standards

Regulatory reporting

Stakeholder management

Policy development

Job description

Competitive Market Rate Salary + Bonus + Benefits

Location - South Manchester (Hybrid)

MERJE is delighted to be partnering with a highly regarded, independent law firm in Greater Manchester to recruit a Head of Risk & Compliance / Money Laundering Reporting Officer (MLRO).

This is an excellent opportunity to join a successful, growing and ambitious legal practice with an outstanding reputation, a genuinely supportive culture and a strong commitment to its people.

The firm prides itself on its collaborative, inclusive and people-focused working environment, where employees are valued, professional development is encouraged and maintaining a healthy work-life balance is a genuine priority. Its continued success has been built on long-standing relationships, high standards of client service and a culture that encourages individuals to contribute, develop and thrive.

Reporting into senior leadership, the successful candidate will take ownership of the firm's risk and compliance framework, providing strategic advice while remaining actively involved in day-to-day regulatory and operational matters.

The position offers considerable variety, autonomy and exposure to senior stakeholders, alongside genuine longer-term career progression, including the potential to progress to partner level.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and continually develop the firm's risk and compliance framework, ensuring adherence to Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) requirements.
• Act as MLRO, overseeing the firm's anti-money laundering framework, policies and procedures.
• Manage suspicious activity reporting, including assessing internal disclosures and submitting SARs to the National Crime Agency where appropriate.
• Provide expert advice to the COLP, COFA and senior leadership on regulatory compliance and risk matters.
• Oversee regulatory risk assessments, internal audits, compliance monitoring and risk registers.
• Ensure effective client due diligence, AML controls and financial crime prevention measures.
• Manage compliance breaches, complaints and regulatory reporting obligations.
• Monitor regulatory developments and implement appropriate changes to policies, processes and controls.
• Develop and deliver compliance and AML training across the business.
• Promote a positive compliance culture, building effective relationships with partners and colleagues across the firm.

About You:

We are keen to speak with experienced Risk & Compliance professionals who can demonstrate:

• Significant experience in a senior compliance position, ideally within a law firm or professional services environment.
• Strong knowledge of SRA Standards and Regulations and relevant legal regulatory requirements.
• Excellent understanding of AML legislation, client due diligence and suspicious activity reporting.
• Experience advising senior stakeholders and managing complex compliance matters.
• A proactive, commercially aware approach, with the confidence to challenge and influence at all levels.
• Strong communication, organisational and relationship-building skills.

Previous experience as an MLRO would be particularly advantageous.

What's on Offer?

• Hybrid working, with three days per week in the office in South Manchester
• Flexible working hours, including the ability to adjust start and finish times to accommodate commuting.
• A highly regarded, successful and independent law firm with an excellent reputation.
• A genuinely positive, collaborative and supportive culture where people are valued and encouraged to succeed.
• Genuine career development opportunities, with potential progression to partner level.
• Generous annual leave and an additional day off for your birthday.
• Private healthcare, discretionary bonus and contributory pension.
• A strong emphasis on employee wellbeing, flexibility and work-life balance.