Position Title: Head of Financial Crime
Location: Melbourne South Eastern Suburbs
Reports To: Head of Legal & Compliance
Employment Type: Full-time
Industry: Financial Services

About the Organisation

Our client is a leading financial services organisation renowned for its integrity, innovation, and commitment to regulatory excellence. With a strong presence in both domestic and international markets, the company offers a broad portfolio of services. As part of its ongoing investment in risk management and compliance, the organisation is seeking a dynamic and experienced Head of Financial Crime to lead its Financial Crime function.

Role Overview

The Head of Financial Crime will be responsible for developing, implementing, and overseeing the organisation's financial crime strategy and framework. This role ensures the business is fully compliant with Anti-Money Laundering (AML), Counter Terrorism Financing (CTF), anti-bribery and corruption, sanctions, and fraud regulations. The successful candidate will lead a team of specialists and work closely with senior leadership, regulators, and internal stakeholders.

Key Responsibilities

Lead the Financial Crime function, including AML/CTF, sanctions, anti-bribery & corruption, and fraud prevention.

Develop and maintain the financial crime compliance strategy, policies, and frameworks in line with regulatory expectations and business risk appetite.

Serve as the principal point of contact with regulatory bodies on all financial crime-related matters, including reporting and audits.

Oversee the transaction monitoring, investigation, and suspicious matter reporting processes to ensure effectiveness and regulatory compliance.

Provide strategic advice and oversight on high-risk customer onboarding and enhanced due diligence processes.

Conduct enterprise-wide financial crime risk assessments and drive continuous improvement initiatives.

Partner with business lines to enhance financial crime awareness and embed a strong compliance culture.

Manage and develop a high-performing team of financial crime professionals.

Lead the response to regulatory change and ensure timely implementation of new requirements.

Report to the Board and senior executive committees on financial crime risks, trends, and mitigation strategies.

Key Requirements

Proven experience (10+ years) in financial crime compliance within the financial services industry.

Deep knowledge of applicable regulations and standards (e.g. AML/CTF, sanctions, FATF guidance, anti-bribery laws).

Strong leadership and people management skills with a track record of building high-performing teams.

Ability to engage credibly with regulators, senior stakeholders, and external auditors.

Expertise in financial crime systems, tools, and data analytics is highly desirable.

Relevant tertiary qualifications in Law, Finance, Risk, or related fields. CAMS, ICA, or similar certifications are highly advantageous.

Exceptional communication, analytical and stakeholder management capabilities.

Why Join?

Be part of a reputable and purpose-driven organisation with a strong ethical foundation.

Lead a critical risk function with enterprise-wide visibility and influence.

Opportunity to shape the financial crime agenda in a dynamic regulatory environment.

Competitive remuneration package and flexible working arrangements.