Deputy Head of AML Operations

UNITED OVERSEAS BANK LIMITED; Singapore; On-site; SGD 150,000 - 200,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading bank in Singapore is seeking a Head of AML Operations to drive operational excellence and proactive risk management in retail banking. The role requires 20+ years in banking, leadership in cross-functional teams, and expertise in regulatory environments. The Head will oversee AML controls and ensure compliance with directives. This position offers significant responsibility in a dynamic financial environment.

Qualifications

• Minimum 20 years of experience in banking with large scale operations.
• Proven leadership in managing cross‑functional teams.
• Strong experience in regulatory environments.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design and execution of AML controls across Group Retail.
• Drive strategic prioritization for AML Operational controls.
• Oversee end to end AML Operational processes.

Skills

Leadership

Stakeholder management

Data analytics

Operational risk management

Communication skills

Job description

Head of AML Ops

The Head of AML Operations for Group Retail (GR) will lead the Line 1 Anti Money Laundering (AML) operation functions, driving operational excellence and proactive risk management across the retail banking continuum. This role reports directly to the Group Retail , Head of Risk & Control and plays a pivotal role in the AML Uplift initiatives.

Key Responsibilities

• Strategic Oversight
  • Lead the design and execution of AML controls across Group Retail, including frontline, product, digital, operations, and support units.
  • Drive the strategic prioritization of initiatives required for AML Operational controls in alignment with MAS directives and internal governance structures.
  • Maintain oversight and accountability over offshored AML activities and teams.
  • Spearhead the AML Enterprise-Wide Risk Assessment (EWRA) and AML Control Self-Assessment (CSA) programs.
  • Partner Line 1.5 and Line 2 to ensure that emerging trends and threat as observed are feedback as well as cascaded to Line 1 control functions.
• Quality Execution
  • Partner with Line 1.5 Advisory and Assurance team to ensure cohesive implementation of controls.
  • Oversee end to end AML Operational processes such as data and record retrieval, effective assignment of alerts and triggers. post-STR validations, onboarding reviews (OGR, ODD), and appeals processes.
  • Ability to direct large teams on the ground, including teams which may not report directly to himself/herself to ensure quality execution.
  • Ability to identify operational gaps and proactively design effective controls to mitigate operational risks.
• Data & Analytics
  • Develop and monitor AML risk metrics and dashboards.
  • Leverage data analytics to achieve operational excellence and effective monitoring of end to end risk signals.
• Governance & Stakeholder Engagement
  • Manage audit and compliance reviews, ensuring timely remediation of gaps.
  • Elevate AML competencies through training, communications, and quality assurance.
• Team Leadership
  • Lead a team of AML Operation Managers, ensuring continuous upskilling and performance management.
  • Foster a culture of accountability, integrity, and innovation in AML operations.

Qualifications

• Minimum 20 years of experience in banking, with deep expertise in managing large scale operations. While experience in AML/CFT operations is preferred, it is not necessary.
• Proven leadership in managing cross‑functional teams and complex regulatory environments.
• Strong stakeholder management and communication skills.
• Experience in data analytics and risk metrics development is highly desirable.
• Experience in leading transformational initiatives to uplift efficiency and effectiveness.