Regulatory Compliance and AML Manager

About the Job

We are seeking a highly motivated and proactive Regulatory Compliance and AML Manager to join our team in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. In this independent contributor role, you will be the driving force behind ensuring our company's adherence to all relevant Malaysia regulations, internal policies, and ethical standards. You will identify and address compliance needs autonomously, taking initiative to conduct risk assessments, investigations, and training initiatives. Reporting to Regional Compliance, this role demands a self-directed individual who thrives in a fast-paced environment and takes ownership of their responsibilities.

Minimum qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Law, Management, or a related field.
• 7-10 years of experience in AML and regulatory compliance, preferably in the FinTech space. 
• Experienced in front-facing financial services regulators in Malaysia.
• Strong understanding of the central bank (Bank Negara Malaysia, BNM) regulations, AML/CFT requirements, and cross-border payment frameworks.
• Familiarity with regulatory licensing processes and engagement with supervisory authorities.
• Strong self-motivation and a proactive approach to problem-solving.
• Proven ability to work independently and take ownership of your tasks.
• Excellent time management and organizational skills to prioritize effectively in a dynamic environment.
• Ability to work with minimal supervision and seek guidance only when needed.
• Experience implementing or working with transaction monitoring systems and compliance tools.

Responsibilities

Regulatory Compliance & Licensing

• Ensure compliance with BNM regulations, including merchant acquiring and planned cross-border activities.
• Lead the licensing application process for new regulatory approvals, working closely with internal stakeholders and regulators.
• Monitor and interpret regulatory developments, ensuring timely implementation of changes in laws and guidelines.
• Serve as the primary liaison with BNM and other relevant regulatory bodies.

AML/CFT & Risk Management

• Oversee the AML/CFT compliance programme, ensuring adherence to local and international standards.
• Implement risk-based approaches to transaction monitoring, customer due diligence (CDD), and enhanced due diligence (EDD) for high-risk customers.
• Ensure robust sanctions screening processes are in place, aligned with regulatory requirements.
• Conduct compliance testing and assessments, identifying gaps and ensuring timely remediation.

Compliance Advisory & Business Support

• Provide proactive compliance guidance to business teams on new product launches, partnerships, and commercial initiatives.
• Support the development of internal policies and procedures, ensuring they align with regulatory expectations.
• Deliver compliance training to internal teams, fostering a strong compliance culture.

Reporting & Governance

• Oversee and manage regulatory reporting obligations, ensuring timely and accurate submissions to BNM.
• Maintain and enhance the compliance monitoring framework, ensuring effective oversight of business activities.
• Collaborate with regional compliance teams to harmonise best practices across markets.