Executive Director, Head of AML Ops_ Group Retail

United Overseas Bank Limited (UOB); Singapore; On-site; SGD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading Asian bank is seeking a Head of AML Operations to lead significant initiatives in anti-money laundering. The candidate will oversee strategic operations and manage compliance audits. With at least 20 years in banking and extensive expertise in managing operations, the ideal applicant will drive transformative AML measures while fostering strong stakeholder relationships. This role emphasizes data analytics and effective governance, contributing to the continuous improvement of AML processes in a dynamic environment.

Qualifications

• Minimum 20 years of experience in banking with expertise in managing large scale operations.
• Proven leadership in managing cross-functional teams in complex regulatory environments.
• Strong communication and stakeholder management skills.
• Experience in data analytics and developing risk metrics.
• Familiarity with AML/CFT operations is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Lead AML operations and design controls across Group Retail.
• Drive strategic initiatives for AML operational controls.
• Oversee end-to-end AML processes and address operational gaps.
• Develop AML risk metrics and leverage data analytics.
• Manage audit reviews and enhance AML competencies.

Skills

Leadership

Stakeholder management

Data analytics

Risk management

Job description

About UOB

United Overseas Bank Limited (UOB) is a leading bank in Asia with a global network of more than 500 branches and offices in 19 countries and territories in Asia Pacific, Europe and North America. In Asia, we operate through our head office in Singapore and banking subsidiaries in China, Indonesia, Malaysia and Thailand, as well as branches and offices. Our history spans more than 80 years. Over this time, we have been guided by our values - Honorable, Enterprising, United and Committed. This means we always strive to do what is right, build for the future, work as one team and pursue long‑term success. It is how we work, consistently, be it towards the company, our colleagues or our customers.

Job Description

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.

Additional Requirements

Be a Part of the UOB Family

UOB is an equal opportunity employer. UOB does not discriminate on the basis of a candidate's age, race, gender, color, religion, sexual orientation, physical or mental disability, or other non‑merit factors. All employment decisions at UOB are based on business needs, job requirements and qualifications. If you require any assistance or accommodations to be made for the recruitment process, please inform us when you submit your online application.

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