Risk Compliance Manager

JOB TITLE: Head of Compliance and Risk

LOCATION: Cape Town CBD

Brief 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.
• Risk Frameworks & Governance: 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.
• Team Leadership & Culture Development: 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.

Contact ALEXANDRA MALONEY on 021 418 1750, quoting the Ref: CTF020806.