Sanctions Operations Processing Analyst - Hybrid

Citibank; Penang; On-site; MYR 55,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

A global financial institution in Penang is looking for a Level 2 Analyst to handle sanctions operations and ensure compliance with regulatory standards. The role involves analyzing transaction matches, collaborating with compliance teams, and identifying process improvements. Candidates should have a bachelor's degree and relevant experience in banking and compliance. This position offers opportunities for professional growth in a dynamic environment.

Qualifications

• 2+ years of relevant experience in a financial institution.
• Experience in Transaction Banking products and regulatory/compliance matters.
• AML, Sanctions, or compliance certifications are a plus.

Responsibilities

• Analyze matches generated by transactions or client onboarding screening.
• Engage with compliance and AML teams as needed.
• Identify opportunities for process improvement.

Skills

Strong verbal and written communication

Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications

Team player able to work in a challenging environment

Good presentation and training skills

Organizational and problem-solving abilities

Education

Bachelors’ degree in any subject

Job description

Overview

Citi's Treasury and Trade Solutions (TTS) sanctions operations support sanctions processes globally across Citi’s TTS business. This role is based in Penang, Malaysia, and is part of a team focused on maintaining strong risk controls, driving efficient processes, and delivering targeted improvements in sanctions operations.

Role

The role of a Level 2 Analyst involves analyzing matches generated by transactions or client onboarding screening against government sanctions watchlists, internal lists, and other applicable regulations. This includes determining if a match is true, performing and documenting detailed analysis and research, requesting additional information as needed from stakeholders or clients, reporting and escalating cases to the compliance team, and acting in accordance with compliance instructions. The analyst provides best-in-class service to clients while maintaining risk within Citi’s risk appetite and protecting the franchise across TTS lines of business.

Key Activities / Responsibilities

• Operate in a fast-paced environment with effective work queue management.
• Review and action matches related to compliance.
• Investigate and obtain additional information to support a sound decision.
• Engage and escalate to appropriate compliance and AML teams as needed.
• Prepare and compile reports as applicable.
• Identify repetitive false hits and propose optimization opportunities.
• Identify opportunities for process improvement and follow through on implementation.
• Understand payment processing and formats.
• Work with Global/Regional Compliance, CSIS and Legal Counsel on compliance matters as deemed necessary.
• Collaborate with Client Service Teams to address client escalations promptly and reduce recurrence over time.
• Stay updated on Citi sanctions policy changes and coordinate with internal teams to implement changes consistently and sustainably.

Education level and/or relevant experience

• Bachelors’ degree in any subject preferred.
• Experience in Transaction Banking products and regulatory/compliance matters.
• 2+ years of relevant regional and/or global experience in a financial institution.
• AML, Sanctions, or compliance certifications with recognized industry standing are a plus.

Knowledge and skills

• Strong verbal and written communication.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications.
• Team player able to work in a challenging environment.
• Flexible work timing readiness.
• Good presentation and training skills.
• Organizational and problem-solving abilities.
• Ability to make quick, reliable decisions after controls are completed.
• Cooperation and daily communication with Citi branches globally.
• Collaborative approach with HUB teams and cross-functional groups.
• Monitoring of pending items portfolio and ensuring timely completion.
• Identifying and reporting problems to a supervisor.

Other Information

Citi is an equal opportunity employer. Qualified candidates will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. Reasonable accommodations are available for applicants with disabilities. View Citi’s EEO Policy Statement and Know Your Rights poster.