AML/KYC Compliance Coordinator (Anti-Money Laundering/Know your Client)

The AML/KYC Compliance Coordinator (Anti-Money Laundering / Know your Client) will undertake detailed analytical research of clients and parties on a global basis to provide efficient and effective Client Due Diligence (CDD) services to Firm Partners and local offices in new and existing client registrations and matters; will utilize knowledge and experience of Know Your Customer (KYC) and Anti-Money Laundering (AML) and Sanctions screening activities to carry out risk-based reviews and make decisions to support timely client on-boarding and matter processing, ensuring compliance with ethical, legal and regulatory requirements; review and disposition alerts generated through screening of clients and parties; conduct beneficial ownership investigations; and undertake periodic reviews of existing client profiles.

Location: Belfast, Northern Ireland

Responsibilities:

• Undertake day-to-day compliance activities in line with AML obligations
• Provide all aspects of support to the Firm, its Partners and offices with regard to the AML/KYC function within New Business Intake (NBI)
• Diligently review and assess the AML and reputational risks associated with all new client and matter requests submitted via the Firm’s intake system (Intapp) in order to perform KYC/CDD
• Perform detailed investigations to identify presence of Politically Exposed Persons (PEPs) or Closely Related Associates (CRAs), Adverse Media and Sanctions, utilising a number of trusted industry sources (such as World-Check, D&B, Hoovers, Lexis Nexis), providing a concise rationale for false or positive ‘match’ decisions
• Conduct independent verification of client due diligence information using additional research methods
• Make sound and educated decisions regarding the existence and validity of possible AML, Sanctions or reputational concerns and complete subsequent follow up activities
• Conduct thorough beneficial ownership investigations in order to provide results to local offices and ensure compliance with Firm policies and procedures
• Thoroughly document research and analysis completed on clients and/or matters in a manner suitable for review by internal and external stakeholders e.g. Regulators, Audit, Risk and Compliance
• Provide results of screening and client due diligence undertaken to offices at agreed frequencies and work to address any CDD concerns
• Periodically evaluate existing client profiles in order to keep client files up-to-date
• Conduct enhanced due diligence and monitoring of higher risk relationships
• Review results of ongoing screening and monitoring activities to determine if further action or escalation is required, clearly documenting results and decisions made
• Operate within agreed SLAs and confidentiality standards
• Build trusted relationships with key internal stakeholders; Partners, Fee Earners, PAs, local AML/Compliance Managers
• Support internal testing and audit requirements
• Assist with any other AML Compliance related matters or projects as identified and assigned by the AML Compliance Manager
• Assist with developing training materials, team standards, presentations and courses on AML compliance awareness
• Engage and collaborate with team members through the presentation of ideas and recommendations regarding best practice, continuous improvement, departmental processes, policies and procedures

Skills and Experience:

• Bachelor's degree required (2:1 or above preferred)
• Strong understanding of AML/CTF requirements and financial crime risks associated with the range of services in the legal industry
• Good relevant AML experience
• Strong analytical and research skills
• Experience of AML/KYC/Due Diligence processes and systems
• Experience with AML monitoring and screening
• Ability to manage processes efficiently, with accuracy and attention to detail
• A recognized AML/Compliance qualification is desirable but not essential
• Excellent communication skills, written and verbal
• Strong decision making capabilities
• Team player adaptable to fast-paced and changing environment
• Good planning, time management and prioritization skills
• Ability to work independently and also to liaise with other departments
• Must have good knowledge of Microsoft office applications and other productivity tools (Intapp knowledge is an advantage)
• Flexibility to work a reasonable shifting schedule is required
• Exceptional problem solving, critical thinking, and analytical skills
• Ability to contribute ideas for process improvements and adapt easily to procedural changes
• Positivity and the adoption of a solution-based approach in all aspects of work

Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Schedule:

• 8 hour shift

Application question(s):

• Will you now or in the future require sponsorship for employment visa status?
• Are you currently based in Northern Ireland? If No, please specify your location

Work authorisation:

• United Kingdom (required)

Work Location: One location

Reference ID: AML/KYC Compliance Coordinator (Anti-Money Laundering / Know your Client)