Risk and Compliance Manager

Communicate Recruitment; Wes-Kaap; On-site; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Job summary

Communicate Recruitment is seeking a Head of Compliance and Risk to lead strategic compliance and risk management for a rapidly growing fintech. You will design robust strategies, oversee licensing and regulatory readiness across markets, and act as the main liaison with regulatory bodies.

The ideal candidate brings 5–10 years in senior compliance roles within financial services, fintech, or payments, with strong AML/KYC and data privacy knowledge.

Qualifications

• Senior-level leadership experience in compliance, risk, or regulatory affairs (5–10 years).
• Proven track record in financial services or fintech compliance regimes.
• Direct engagement with regulatory bodies and authorities.
• Deep knowledge of AML, KYC, POPIA/GDPR, consumer protection, and payment regulations.

Responsibilities

• Lead strategic compliance and risk management initiatives across the organization.
• Design and implement robust compliance and risk strategies aligned with business goals.
• Oversee the compliance function across all operations and jurisdictions.
• Act as primary contact for regulatory bodies and maintain proactive engagement.
• Lead regulatory readiness and licensing for local and international markets.
• Collaborate with product and operations to ensure compliant launches.
• Establish and monitor company-wide risk management protocols and internal controls.
• Develop reporting systems to detect exposure early and inform decisions.
• Guide teams through regulatory changes and embed compliance into day-to-day operations.
• Drive internal audits, policy updates, and training to enhance regulatory alignment.
• Oversee regulatory filings, reports, audits, and external representations.

Skills

AML/KYC

POPIA/GDPR

Regulatory affairs

Risk governance

Licensing & compliance

Education

Law/Finance/Compliance degree

Postgraduate designation (beneficial)

Job description

Join a fast-scaling fintech as Head of Compliance and Risk.

Leverage your banking and fintech expertise to lead global compliance strategy and regulatory affairs.

Own high-impact initiatives across licensing, risk, and market expansion.

Ideal for a seasoned leader ready to drive innovation within a robust regulatory framework.

Job Description:

• Strategic Compliance Leadership
• Design and implement robust compliance and risk strategies that align with business goals and regulatory expectations
• Lead the compliance function across all operations, ensuring consistent standards are met in all jurisdictions
• Act as the key point of contact for regulatory bodies, driving proactive engagement and transparent communication
• Regulatory Expansion & Licensing
• Spearhead regulatory readiness as the business expands into new markets, overseeing all aspects of local and international license acquisition
• Collaborate across departments to ensure product and service launches comply with evolving legal frameworks
• Establish and maintain company-wide risk management protocols, including internal controls and risk mitigation procedures
• Build comprehensive reporting systems to identify potential exposure early and support strategic decision-making
• Operational Compliance Management
• Guide internal teams through regulatory change, providing hands-on support to embed compliance across day-to-day operations
• Drive internal audits, policy updates, and training initiatives to strengthen regulatory alignment at every level
• Reporting, Representation & Stakeholder Engagement
• Oversee timely submission of regulatory filings and reports, maintaining full compliance with local and cross-border obligations
• Represent the business in external audits, industry forums, and regulatory consultations to stay ahead of legislative developments
• Lead and develop a high-performing compliance team with a clear focus on collaboration, agility, and accountability
• Champion a company-wide culture of compliance by embedding awareness, ownership, and integrity into business operations

Skills & Experience:

Minimum 5-10 years in a senior compliance, risk, or regulatory affairs role

Proven track record in financial services, fintech, banking, or payments

Direct experience working with regulatory bodies and financial authorities

Deep knowledge of AML, KYC, POPIA/GDPR, consumer protection, and payment regulations.

Experience managing regulatory license applications (local and international).

Strong understanding of risk frameworks and governance standards (e.g., ISO 31000, COSO).

Qualification:

A tertiary qualification in Law, Finance, risk and compliance or similar

A professional designation and postgraduate will be highly beneficial