Head Compliance

Job Description

A reputable international financial institution is seeking an experienced and highly motivated professional to fill the position of Head, Compliance. This is an excellent opportunity for a strategic leader with a strong background in regulatory compliance, AML/CFT, and risk management within the financial services sector.
Vacancy Announcement
Head, Compliance
Location
Freetown,Sierra Leone
About the Role
The Head, Compliance will be responsible for leading the institution’s compliance function and ensuring adherence to all applicable regulatory requirements, industry standards, and internal policies.
The successful candidate will drive a strong culture of compliance across the organization, provide strategic advisory support to management, and ensure effective Anti-Money Laundering and Counter Financing of Terrorism (AML/CFT) controls.
Lead and proactively manage the Compliance function to achieve established objectives.
Ensure full compliance with regulatory requirements, policies, and procedures relating to AML/CFT and other regulatory obligations.
Monitor changes in the regulatory environment and advise management and business units on compliance implications.
Provide compliance advisory, counseling, and decision-support services across the institution.
Develop and implement compliance awareness and training programs for staff.
Drive the establishment and maintenance of a strong Know Your Customer (KYC) framework.
Ensure effective transaction monitoring systems for identifying and reporting suspicious transactions.
Support Executive Management in the identification, assessment, and management of compliance risks.
Build and sustain a strong compliance culture throughout the institution.
Maintain effective relationships with regulators, law enforcement agencies, and other key stakeholders.
Prepare periodic compliance reports and management information reports for senior management and relevant committees.
Represent the institution in industry compliance engagements and professional forums.

Qualifications and Experience

Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Banking & Finance, Business Administration, Law, or a related discipline.
A postgraduate qualification (MBA, Master’s degree) will be an added advantage.
Professional certifications in Compliance, AML/CFT, Risk Management, Accounting, or related fields (e.g., CAMS, ACCA, ICA, CISA, CRCM) will be an advantage.
Minimum of 5-10 years’ relevant experience in Compliance, Risk Management, Audit, Legal, or Banking Operations, with at least 3 years in a leadership role within the financial services sector.

Required Competencies

Strong knowledge of banking regulations, AML/CFT requirements, and regulatory compliance frameworks.
Sound understanding of banking operations, risk management principles, and financial services regulations.
Excellent analytical and problem-solving abilities.
Strong leadership, people management, and stakeholder engagement skills.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
High level of integrity, professionalism, and attention to detail.
Strong interpersonal and relationship management skills.
Ability to work independently and provide practical compliance solutions to business challenges.

Interested candidates should send their application to :securetrustconsultancy@gmail.com