Head of Compliance and AML

Placements24; Sandton; Hybrid; ZAR 1,600,000 - 2,600,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Executive compensation

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Conference attendance allowance

Hybrid work

Job summary

Placements24 in Sandton, Gauteng, seeks a seasoned Head of Compliance and AML to lead the regulatory program within a major Banking & Finance institution. The role combines strategic oversight with hands-on execution, ensuring robust AML/CFT controls and governance.

You will guide policy development, risk management, and regulatory liaison, while building strong teams and promoting a culture of integrity across the organisation. Hybrid work with core office presence in Sandton.

Qualifications

• Advanced degree in Law, Finance, Business Administration or related field.
• Professional compliance or AML certifications (CAMs, ICA) are highly desirable.
• Minimum 10 years of progressive experience in compliance/AML/regulatory roles with 5+ years in leadership within Banking & Finance.

Responsibilities

• Develop and maintain comprehensive compliance and AML/CFT policies and procedures.
• Oversee monitoring and reporting of suspicious transactions and activities.
• Conduct regular risk assessments to identify and mitigate compliance and AML risks.
• Lead and manage the compliance and AML teams, fostering integrity and vigilance.
• Liaise with regulatory bodies and ensure timely submission of required reports.
• Develop and deliver effective training programs for all staff.
• Oversee implementation of new regulatory requirements and industry best practices.
• Lead internal investigations and respond to regulatory inquiries.
• Advise senior management and the board on compliance matters and emerging risks.

Education

Advanced degree in Law, Finance, or Business Administration

CAMS/ICA certification

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading and rapidly growing financial institution headquartered in Sandton, Gauteng, is seeking a highly experienced and strategic Head of Compliance and Anti-Money Laundering (AML) to lead their compliance function. This senior leadership role is critical for ensuring the organization adheres to all regulatory requirements, maintains robust AML/CFT frameworks, and upholds the highest ethical standards. The position involves a hybrid work model, requiring regular presence in the Sandton office for team collaboration and strategic meetings, complemented by remote work flexibility. This is a pivotal opportunity to shape compliance strategy within the Banking & Finance sector in South Africa.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and maintain comprehensive compliance and AML/CFT policies and procedures.
• Oversee the monitoring and reporting of suspicious transactions and activities.
• Conduct regular risk assessments to identify and mitigate compliance and AML risks.
• Lead and manage the compliance and AML teams, fostering a culture of integrity and vigilance.
• Liaise with regulatory bodies (e.g., FIC, SARB) and ensure timely submission of required reports.
• Develop and deliver effective compliance and AML training programs for all staff.
• Manage the implementation of new regulatory requirements and industry best practices.
• Oversee internal investigations and respond to regulatory inquiries.
• Advise senior management and the board on compliance-related matters and emerging risks.
• Stay abreast of all relevant legislation, regulations, and industry developments impacting the financial sector.

Requirements

• Advanced degree in Law, Finance, Business Administration, or a related field.
• Professional compliance or AML certifications (e.g., CAMS, ICA) are highly desirable.
• Minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in compliance, AML, or regulatory roles, with at least 5 years in a leadership capacity within Banking & Finance.
• In-depth knowledge of South African financial regulations, including FICA, POPIA, and AML/CFT legislation.
• Proven experience in developing and implementing effective compliance and AML programs.
• Strong understanding of financial crime risks and typologies.
• Excellent leadership, management, and team-building skills.
• Exceptional analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities.
• Outstanding communication, negotiation, and stakeholder management skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a hybrid environment, balancing strategic leadership with operational oversight.
• High level of integrity and ethical conduct.

Benefits

• Executive-level compensation package including a significant base salary and performance-based bonuses.
• Comprehensive executive medical aid and retirement fund options.
• Substantial professional development and conference attendance allowance.
• Opportunity to lead and influence compliance strategy at a senior level.
• Hybrid work arrangement offering flexibility and work-life balance.
• Prime office location in Sandton, Gauteng.