Senior Compliance Officer

Our client, a reputable financial institution with an international footprint, is looking to appoint a Senior Compliance Officer to strengthen the AML and regulatory function. This is a key position within the Compliance team, offering broad exposure to regulatory matters, close interaction with the Swiss authorities, and the opportunity to help shape an effective compliance culture. The role reports directly to the Head of Compliance.

Key Responsibilities

Compliance Advisory & Risk Management

• Act as a knowledgeable counterpart on Swiss and international regulatory developments, including relevant FINMA circulars and industry guidance.

• Ensure internal compliance frameworks, policies, and procedures remain aligned with legal requirements and evolving supervisory expectations.

• Contribute to the institution's risk assessment activities, including thematic testing, monitoring initiatives, and targeted reviews.

• Provide clear, pragmatic, and timely advice to senior management and the front office.

Operational Compliance & AML Oversight

• Perform relationship and transaction screening, ensuring appropriate escalation and documentation of higher‑risk or sanctions‑related items.

• Execute KYC onboarding checks for individuals, corporates, and financial intermediaries, ensuring completeness and accuracy of information.

• Conduct AML investigations, draft and submit reports to the MROS where required, and coordinate subsequent communication with authorities.

• Manage account blocking/unblocking processes and assist with documentation updates (e.g., FATCA, QI, CRS, CDB).

Monitoring & Periodic Reviews

• Carry out ongoing monitoring of client relationships to ensure compliance with Art. 305bis SPC and internal standards.

• Lead periodic reviews for PEPs, higher‑risk profiles, and lower‑risk portfolios, ensuring consistent risk classification and follow‑up.

• Support the continuous enhancement of monitoring methodologies and risk‑based controls.

Regulatory Interaction

• Represent the firm in exchanges with supervisory authorities and external stakeholders, ensuring professional, accurate, and well‑prepared communication.

• Handle investigative requests and manage liaison with external banks or custodians regarding specific transactions.

• Work closely with front‑office teams, helping them navigate regulatory requirements while maintaining commercial awareness.

Your Profile

• University degree in Law, Banking, Business Administration, or equivalent qualification; CAS in Compliance is a strong advantage.

• 6-10 years' experience in Compliance, AML, Audit, Risk, or related regulatory functions within private banking, asset management, or treasury.

• Strong command of Swiss regulatory frameworks, particularly AML, CDB, FinSA, FinIA.

• Structured thinker with strong analytical skills and the ability to develop practical solutions for complex issues.

• High accuracy, dependability, and the capacity to manage multiple priorities under time pressure.

• Strong communication style with the ability to challenge, advise, and collaborate effectively with front‑office teams.

• Familiarity with Avaloq or similar core banking systems is an asset.

• Fluent in French and English; Arabic is highly advantageous.

• Must be resident in Switzerland.