Job Description

Role Summary

We are seeking a Compliance Coordinator to join our Risk and Compliance team. Reporting to the Risk and Compliance Manager, the role will support client and matter onboarding, anti-money laundering checks, regulatory compliance processes and the continued development of internal systems and procedures. This role can be based in either Tunbridge Wells or Horsham.

Key Working Relationships

The Compliance Coordinator will work closely with the Risk and Compliance team, partners, fee earners and support staff across the firm. The role will also involve liaison with clients, the finance team, other solicitors and relevant third parties.

About the Role

The successful candidate will be responsible for supporting the firm’s client onboarding and new matter opening processes in line with internal policies, procedures and UK regulatory requirements. The role requires strong attention to detail, sound judgement and the ability to communicate compliance requirements clearly to legal and non-legal colleagues. The post holder will help maintain accurate records, support fee earners with AML and client due diligence queries, and contribute to continuous improvement within the team.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage incoming requests for new client and matter openings, ensuring work is handled accurately and in a timely manner.
• Carry out AML, client due diligence and onboarding checks in accordance with UK regulations and the firm’s internal policies.
• Maintain accurate compliance records, logs and documentation relating to client and matter opening processes.
• Provide clear guidance to fee earners and support staff on AML, sanctions, high risk jurisdictions, source of funds, source of wealth and related onboarding requirements.
• Identify, review and escalate complex or higher-risk matters to the Risk and Compliance Manager, MLRO or other appropriate stakeholders where required.
• Keep up to date with relevant AML regulations, sanctions requirements and internal procedures.
• Support improvements to compliance systems, procedures, guidance notes and training materials.
• Work closely with the MLRO, finance team and wider Risk and Compliance team on relevant compliance matters and ad hoc projects.
• Undertake other duties reasonably required by the firm, including travel between office locations where needed.

Experience and Knowledge

The ideal candidate will have at least 2–3 years’ experience in a compliance-related onboarding role within a law firm, financial services organisation or other professional services environment. They will have practical experience of AML and client due diligence processes, including the Money Laundering Regulations 2017, sanctions screening, high risk jurisdictions and business research using online databases. Experience of conflict analysis would be desirable.

Skills and Attributes

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to explain compliance requirements clearly and confidently.
• Strong organisational skills, with the ability to prioritise, manage competing deadlines and work accurately under pressure.
• High attention to detail and a methodical approach to record keeping and compliance processes.
• Strong investigative and analytical skills, both online and through document review.
• Ability to work independently without close supervision while contributing positively as part of a team.
• High levels of confidentiality, integrity, professionalism and client care.
• Flexible, proactive and commercially aware, with a willingness to support a wide variety of work.

Qualifications and IT Skills

Candidates should have a general standard of education appropriate for the role, including a minimum of GCSE Maths and English or equivalent. A high level of IT literacy is required, including confidence using integrated office systems, databases, spreadsheets and correspondence tools.