Our client is a diversified global organization with operations spanning both regulated and non-regulated sectors, primarily focused on fintech, payments, banking, decentralized finance , and private equity investments. The Group consists of multiple entities operating across various jurisdictions worldwide and the opportunity has become available as my client is looking to recruit a Money Laundering Reporting Officer (MLRO) to join the team at their Limassol-based offices
About the Role:
We are seeking a proactive and commercially aware MLRO. The ideal candidate brings not only technical expertise in anti-money laundering and regulatory compliance but also an understanding of how these functions support the growth and sustainability of a forward-thinking financial institution.
This is a strategic role requiring a strong grasp of change management and a readiness to partner with cross-functional teams. The MLRO will be a key player in safeguarding our integrity, reputation, and operational resilience while aligning compliance with business objectives.
Key Responsibilities:
Regulatory Oversight & Reporting
- Ensure full compliance with Cyprus AML legislation, including the Prevention and Suppression of Money Laundering Law and any relevant regulatory obligations from the Central Bank of Cyprus or CySEC, depending on the license held.
- Develop, maintain, and enforce group-wide AML/CTF policies and procedures, ensuring alignment with both local requirements and cross-jurisdictional obligations, especially with the FCA-regulated EMI in the UK.
- Prepare and submit Suspicious Activity Reports (SARs) to MOKAS, and oversee SAR processes across the group.
- Act as the point of contact with regulatory authorities, auditors, and external bodies within Cyprus and in collaboration with other jurisdictions.
Risk & Change Management
- Conduct regular AML/CTF risk assessments, including business-wide, customer, and transactional risk, integrating inputs from UK and other group entities.
- Lead change initiatives to improve AML frameworks, embedding regulatory updates and business process improvements across the group.
- Ensure regulatory developments in Cyprus, the UK, and other operating jurisdictions are monitored, communicated, and implemented effectively.
Transaction Monitoring & Controls
- Oversee implementation and calibration of transaction monitoring tools across Cyprus and provide input to Group Compliance to ensure a consistent monitoring approach across entities, including the UK EMI.
- Investigate and document suspicious activity or red flags thoroughly and ensure timely escalation and resolution.
- Support the review of alerts, thresholds, and typologies in cooperation with other compliance teams within the group.
Culture, Training & Awareness
- Deliver tailored AML/CTF training programs across teams, including Cyprus-based staff and those supporting UK operations.
- Prepare yearly training cycles and post-training assessments (e.g., quizzes) to reinforce knowledge and awareness.
- Foster an open, compliance-first culture where AML/CTF matters are well understood and addressed early.
Cross-Functional & Cross-Border Collaboration
- Work closely with Group Compliance, the UK-based EMI under the FCA, and other regulated entities in the group to ensure a harmonised approach to AML.
- Advise on business initiatives, client onboarding, product development, and jurisdictional expansion with a risk-based mindset.
- Share best practices across locations and support group-wide AML initiatives and governance forums.
Governance & Record-Keeping:
- Maintain accurate and up-to-date records of AML/CTF activities, decisions, and risk assessments for internal governance and regulatory audit readiness.
- Ensure coordination with UK and other Compliance Officers for consistent documentation across entities.
Skills and Experience:
- 10+ years’ experience in AML, compliance, or financial crime roles, preferably in banking, EMI, or PI environments.
- Strong understanding of AML laws in Cyprus, and familiarity with UK FCA regulations and expectations.
- Practical experience working across multi-jurisdictional environments, ideally involving the UK or EU financial regulatory frameworks.
- Proven experience in transaction monitoring systems, SAR filings, and AML governance.
- Sound change management capability – able to influence processes and implement improvements across teams.
- Commercially aware with the ability to align compliance responsibilities with business operations.
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills to work with internal teams and external regulators.
- Excellent English required; Greek is an asset.
If you’re ready to take ownership of AML in a regulated financial group with operations in Cyprus, the UK, and beyond — and thrive in a role that combines structure with strategy — we’d love to hear from you.
Salary:
- Salary based on skills and experience
To apply:
Please send your CV to StaffMatters at admin@smstaffmatters.com and mention that you are applying for the vacancy of Money Laundering Reporting Officer (MLRO) with reference number 3696.
Or you can apply directly through your candidate login by hitting the APPLY button.
