Lead Compliance Officer - Financial Regulations

Placements24; Sandton; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary and performance‑dr/

Full remote work arrangement

Health insurance

Generous annual leave

Professional development opportunities

Leadership role in growing company

Retirement savings benefits

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Lead Compliance Officer to drive a robust compliance program in a remote SA FinTech environment. You will lead risk assessment, audits, and regulatory liaison while shaping training and policies.

The role demands deep SA regulatory knowledge and proven leadership in a growing fintech setup. You will oversee AML/CTF programs, guide senior management, and foster an ethical culture with strong communication and problem-solving skills.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Law, Finance, Business Administration, or related field.
• Postgraduate qualification in compliance or relevant certification desirable.
• Minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in compliance, legal, or audit within financial services, FinTech preferred.
• In-depth knowledge of South African financial regulations including FAIS, FICA, POPIA, and AML/CTF.
• Proven experience in developing and implementing compliance programs.
• Strong risk management understanding and methodologies.
• Excellent analytical, investigative and problem-solving skills.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication, with leadership abilities.

Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and maintain a comprehensive compliance program aligned with financial regulations (FAIS, FICA, POPIA).
• Oversee risk assessment processes, identifying vulnerabilities and mitigation strategies.
• Conduct internal audits and investigations to ensure policy adherence.
• Develop and deliver compliance training for all employees.
• Liaise with regulatory bodies and external auditors, managing inquiries and examinations.
• Monitor changes in legislation and regulations, providing timely updates and guidance.
• Manage AML/CTF programs.
• Develop and refine policies, procedures, and controls.
• Advise senior management on compliance-related matters and strategic decisions.
• Foster ethical culture and promote best practices across the organization.

Skills

Leadership

Regulatory knowledge

Risk management

Analytical skills

Communication skills

Independent remote work

Education

Bachelor's degree in Law/Finance/Business Administration

Postgraduate qualification in compliance or certification

Tools

Compliance management software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a rapidly expanding FinTech firm, is seeking an experienced and proactive Lead Compliance Officer to spearhead their compliance function. This is a fully remote position, allowing you to work from anywhere while making a significant impact on our company's regulatory adherence. Based within the dynamic landscape of South African finance, you will be responsible for developing, implementing, and overseeing all aspects of the company's compliance program. This includes ensuring adherence to local and international financial regulations, managing risk, and fostering a culture of compliance throughout the organization. We are looking for a leader with a proven track record in financial compliance and a deep understanding of regulatory frameworks relevant to the digital finance space. Your expertise will be crucial in navigating the complex regulatory environment and safeguarding the company's reputation.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and maintain a comprehensive compliance program aligned with all applicable financial regulations (e.g., FAIS, FICA, POPIA).
• Oversee the risk assessment process, identifying potential compliance vulnerabilities and implementing mitigation strategies.
• Conduct internal audits and investigations to ensure adherence to policies and procedures.
• Develop and deliver compliance training programs for all employees.
• Liaise with regulatory bodies and external auditors, managing inquiries and examinations.
• Monitor changes in legislation and regulations, providing timely updates and guidance.
• Manage the company's anti-money laundering (AML) and counter-terrorist financing (CTF) programs.
• Develop and refine compliance policies, procedures, and controls.
• Advise senior management on compliance-related matters and strategic decisions.
• Foster a strong ethical culture and promote compliance best practices across the organization.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Law, Finance, Business Administration, or a related field. A postgraduate qualification in compliance or a relevant certification is highly desirable.
• Minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in compliance, legal, or audit within the financial services sector, preferably FinTech.
• In-depth knowledge of South African financial regulations, including FAIS, FICA, POPIA, and AML/CTF frameworks.
• Proven experience in developing and implementing compliance programs.
• Strong understanding of risk management principles and methodologies.
• Excellent analytical, investigative, and problem-solving skills.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present complex information clearly.
• Demonstrated leadership and team management capabilities.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities in a remote setting.
• Proficiency in compliance management software and tools.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and potential for performance-based bonuses.
• Full remote work arrangement, offering unparalleled flexibility.
• Comprehensive health insurance coverage.
• Generous annual leave and public holidays.
• Opportunities for continuous professional development and certifications.
• A key leadership role in a growing and innovative company.
• Direct impact on the company's strategic direction and risk posture.
• A dynamic and supportive virtual work environment.
• Retirement savings benefits.