Head of Compliance

About the Role

Our client, a leading multi-billion asset and wealth manager, is seeking to appoint a Head of Compliance . This is a senior, strategic position, critical to the firm’s continued growth and future development. The successful candidate will combine strong technical expertise with proven leadership skills to guide the compliance function at group level.

Key Responsibilities

Leadership & Team Management

• Lead and manage the Compliance department, ensuring efficient operations and effective supervision of compliance officers.
• Oversee periodic controls and departmental activities to guarantee compliance with regulatory requirements and internal deadlines.
• Coordinate compliance activities across multiple business lines.
• Design and deliver a comprehensive compliance training program across the group.
• Provide regular reports on compliance matters to the Management Committee and Board of Directors, including an annual compliance activity report.

Governance & Regulatory Oversight

• Maintain and enhance governance documentation in line with regulatory and audit requirements.
• Actively engage with regulators and external auditors on compliance-related matters.
• Monitor regulatory developments (Swiss and international) and implement appropriate actions.
• Oversee adherence to Swiss and international sanctions requirements.
• Ensure the effective execution of the client account review process, including risk categorization and presentations to authorities.
• Draft or supervise communications with MROS prior to submission.
• Support relationship managers and management by responding to compliance inquiries.

Qualifications & Experience

• University degree in law, economics, or a related discipline.
• 10 to 15 years of experience in compliance/AMLA, ideally within a banking institution or as an independent manager.
• Strong technical expertise in AMLA/CDB, FINMA regulations, cross-border rules, and market conduct.
• Compliance certification (e.g., CAS) is highly valued.
• Demonstrated success as a team leader with excellent management skills.
• Analytical, rigorous, and detail-oriented, with strong writing skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities under tight deadlines.