APAC AML Operation Head

Ant International; Kuala Lumpur; On-site; MYR 180,000 - 280,000; Full time

Job summary

Ant International is seeking a senior AML Operations Lead to oversee the APAC AML framework and standardize EDD, TM, and screening workflows. The role emphasizes data governance, process optimization, and cross-functional collaboration with Compliance, Risk, Tech, and Legal teams.

Ideal candidates hold a 5+ year AML/Compliance track record, with leadership experience and knowledge of APAC regulations. English communication and familiarity with AML systems are essential.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or higher in a relevant field; professional certifications preferred.
• Minimum 5 years in AML/compliance operations with leadership experience.
• Experience leading EDD, TM, or screening workflows in international institutions.

Responsibilities

• Oversee AML operational framework across APAC ensuring compliance and efficiency.
• Standardize processes for EDD, TM, and screening activities.
• Coordinate data governance to improve accuracy and traceability.
• Lead cross-functional initiatives to optimize workflows and automation.
• Monitor regulatory developments and train staff on changes.

Skills

AML/Compliance Ops

EDD/TM/Screening

Data governance

KPI management

Cross-functional collaboration

Leadership

SQL

Power BI/Tableau

Actimize

SAS

Education

Bachelor's degree or above in Finance, Law, Economics, Accounting, Risk Management, or related disciplines

Certifications such as CAMS, CFE, CIA, or CISA preferred

Tools

Actimize

SAS

Quantexa

Socure

SQL

Power BI

Tableau

Excel

Job description

• Oversee the execution and optimization of the AML operational framework in the APAC Region, leading the standardization and efficient implementation of Enhanced Due Diligence (EDD), Transaction Monitoring (TM), and Screening processes to ensure both regulatory compliance and operational efficiency.
• Coordinate with AML - related data governance initiatives, establish and maintain high-quality data standards to enhance data accuracy, completeness, and traceability, supporting risk identification and regulatory reporting.
• Lead operational efficiency improvement projects through process re-engineering, adoption of automation tools, and cross-functional collaboration to continuously optimize AML workflows, reduce operational risk, and accelerate response times.
• Establish and maintain AML operational quality control mechanisms, including periodic audits, KPI monitoring, and issue closure management, to ensure consistent achievement of quality benchmarks.
• Closely monitor regulatory developments in APAC region national levels, proactively assess their operational impact, and lead internal process adjustments and staff training to ensure ongoing compliance.
• Collaborate closely with Compliance, Risk, Technology, Legal, and Business teams to foster cross-functional alignment and ensure AML operations are consistent with Group strategy and risk appetite.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or above in Finance, Law, Economics, Accounting, Risk Management, or related disciplines; professional certifications such as CAMS, CFE, CIA, or CISA are preferred.
• Minimum 5 years of experience in AML/Compliance Operations, including at least 3 years in a management or team lead role, with proven experience leading EDD, TM, or Screening workflows within international financial institutions, banks or FinTech/PayTech firms.
• In-depth understanding of APAC AML regulatory frameworks (e.g., Singapore MAS Notice 626 / Payment Services Act, Malaysia AMLA 2001, Hong Kong SFO/AMLO and HKMA requirements), with proven ability to implement localized compliance solutions; local team collaboration or regulatory engagement experience in Singapore/Malaysia/Hong Kong is highly desirable.
• Demonstrated capability in process optimization, data governance, KPI management, and cross-functional collaboration; experience leading operational efficiency initiatives and implementing automation tools; prior experience building or restructuring operational frameworks from scratch is a plus.
• Excellent communication in English both written & spoken, cross-cultural collaboration, and stakeholder management skills with the ability to articulate risk and operational insights clearly to senior management.
• Familiarity with leading AML systems (e.g., Actimize, SAS, Quantexa, Socure) and data tools (e.g., SQL, advanced Excel, Power BI/Tableau); basic data analytics skills to guide teams in leveraging systems for operational efficiency.