Head of Compliance Leading Bank

Overview

Our client is a leading and well-established bank with a significant and growing presence in Singapore. They are seeking for an experienced and dynamic Head of Compliance to lead the Singapore compliance function. This is a pivotal role within the senior management team, offering high visibility and the opportunity to shape the compliance culture.

Reporting directly to the CEO, Singapore, with a functional reporting line to the Group Head of Compliance at Head Office, you will be the senior compliance leader for the Singapore branch. You will have full responsibility for the entire compliance and financial crime prevention framework, acting as the key interface with the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS). You will lead, mentor, and develop a team of compliance professionals.

• Strategic Leadership & Governance:
  Own the Compliance function for Singapore, encompassing both Regulatory Compliance and AML/CFT. Ensure a robust compliance culture and strong governance frameworks are embedded across the business.
• Regulatory Engagement:
  Act as the primary point of contact and liaison with the MAS and other relevant regulatory bodies. Ensure timely, accurate, and high-quality regulatory reporting and submissions.
• Business Advisory:
  Provide authoritative, practical, and timely compliance advice to the business and senior management on regulatory requirements, new/emerging regulations, and compliance risk matters.
• AML/CFT Oversight:
  Oversee the end-to-end AML/CFT framework, including policy, procedures, customer due diligence, transaction monitoring, sanctions screening, and the investigation and escalation of suspicious activity reports.
• Legal & Documentation Review:
  Handle legal and compliance-related documentation, including the vetting and review of agreements, NDAs, and other legal documents in coordination with internal teams and external counsel.
• Team Management & Development:
  Lead, mentor, and develop the local compliance team. Foster a high-performance environment focused on continuous learning and professional growth.
• Head Office Alignment:
  Liaise closely with the Group Head of Compliance to ensure local policies and procedures are aligned with group standards and regulatory expectations.

• A minimum of 15 years of relevant compliance experience within the banking or financial services sector, with a strong generalist background.
• Deep, hands-on expertise in both AML/CFT and broad regulatory compliance is essential.
• Proven experience in directly managing and developing a compliance team.
• In-depth knowledge of Singapore banking regulations and MAS expectations, with a proven track record of effective regulatory engagement.
• Experience in reviewing and negotiating legal documentation is highly advantageous.
• Excellent communication, presentation, and stakeholder management skills, with the ability to operate independently and influence senior management.
• A degree in Law, Finance, Business, or a related field. Relevant professional certifications (e.g., CAMS, ICA) are a strong plus.

A competitive remuneration package will be offered to the successful candidate, along with the opportunity to play a critical role in a respected institution. You will enjoy a high degree of autonomy and strategic impact.

All applications will be treated with strict confidentiality.

If you're interested in the above role, click on the 'apply' function now! Alternatively, you can contact Suhani Malhotra at smalhotra for a confidential discussion. Only shortlisted candidates will be notified.