We are looking for a Head of Compliance (SMF16/17) to lead the Compliance and AML/CFT function for our regulated entity, ensuring the business operates in line with applicable regulatory obligations while supporting sustainable growth in a fast-paced fintech environment.
This role will act as the primary point of contact for compliance, financial crime, and regulatory risk matters, partnering closely with global and local stakeholders across the organization. The position combines strategic oversight with hands-on execution across compliance governance, AML/CFT frameworks, risk management, regulatory engagement, and operational resilience initiatives, including DORA-related matters.
The ideal candidate will bring strong regulatory and financial crime expertise, experience operating within regulated financial services or payments environments, and the ability to navigate complex international regulatory frameworks while enabling business growth.
Act as the SMF16/17 responsible person for Compliance and AML/CFT matters, ensuring compliance with applicable FCA regulations and financial crime obligations.
Serve as the main point of contact for compliance-related queries, providing guidance and support to business stakeholders across the organization.
Maintain oversight of the firm’s regulatory risk framework, identifying emerging and existing risks and implementing appropriate mitigation strategies in partnership with the business.
Lead and enhance the AML/CFT framework across all relevant jurisdictions and business areas, ensuring alignment with regulatory expectations and internal standards.
Develop, review, and maintain compliance policies, procedures, and controls related to AML, sanctions, financial crime, operational resilience, outsourcing, and broader regulatory requirements.
Monitor and assess the impact of new and evolving regulations, including PSD3, 6AMLD, DORA, NIS2, CESOP, ESG, and other applicable frameworks.
Design and execute compliance monitoring programs, thematic reviews, and testing activities across key regulatory areas and third-party arrangements.
Conduct enterprise-wide and cross-border AML/CFT risk assessments, evaluating risks associated with products, services, clients, and geographic exposure.
Review and oversee KYC and onboarding processes for new and existing clients, ensuring adherence to AML and regulatory requirements.
Investigate compliance incidents, suspicious activity, and regulatory breaches, ensuring appropriate escalation, remediation, and reporting where required, including SAR/STR filings.
Prepare and submit regulatory reports and returns to relevant authorities in a timely manner.
Produce and present compliance, financial crime, and risk reports to senior management, boards, and governance committees.
Partner with Internal Audit, regulators, and law enforcement bodies during inspections, audits, and reviews.
Drive training and awareness initiatives to ensure employees remain informed about evolving AML/CFT obligations and regulatory expectations.
Support the continuous evolution of the compliance and risk management framework through automation, process improvements, and scalable controls.
8+ years of experience in Compliance, Financial Crime, Risk, or Regulatory roles within regulated financial services environments.
Previous experience operating at SMF16 and/or SMF17 level, or in a senior compliance leadership role, is strongly preferred.
Strong knowledge of FCA regulatory requirements, AML/CFT frameworks, sanctions compliance, and financial crime controls.
Experience within payments, fintech, retail banking, or international financial services environments is highly preferred.
Solid understanding of regulatory frameworks such as PSD3, 6AMLD, DORA, NIS2, CESOP, ESG, and broader operational resilience requirements.
Hands-on experience with KYC onboarding, transaction monitoring, suspicious activity investigations, and regulatory reporting.
Strong understanding of risk management methodologies and internal control frameworks.
Ability to work cross-functionally with senior stakeholders in fast-paced, evolving, and international environments.
Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills, with strong attention to detail and commercial judgment.
Outstanding communication and stakeholder management skills, including experience presenting to boards, regulators, and executive leadership.
Bachelor’s degree in Law, Economics, Finance, Business, or a related field.
Professional certifications in Compliance, AML, or Risk Management are a plus.
Fluency in English is required.
dLocal started with one goal – to close the payments innovation gap between global enterprise companies, and customers in emerging economies. We have over 900 payment methods, in more than 40 countries.
We are relentlessly focusing on serving our customers and solidifying our position as the preferred infrastructure solution for Global Merchants across Emerging Markets.
With the ability to accept local payment methods and facilitate cross-border fund settlement worldwide, our merchants reach billions of underserved consumers in the high-growth markets of Africa, Asia, and Latin America. dLocal offers the ideal payment solutions for global commerce:
Payins: Accept local payment methods
Payouts: Compliantly send funds cross-border
dLocal for Platforms: Unify your platform’s payment solution
Defense Suite: Manage fraud effectively
Unlock the power of emerging markets.
