MLRO - Crypto

Our client is a world leading Crypto exchange, looking to set up first time operations in Europe. We are seeking an experienced and highly accountable MLRO to take ownership of their financial crime and AML framework. This role will serve as the key point of contact with regulators and senior management, ensuring the organisation not only meets its obligations but establishes a culture of compliance across the business.

Key Responsibilities

• Act as the nominated officer for all AML/CTF matters, including responsibility for suspicious activity reporting and regulatory engagement.
• Lead the design, implementation, and ongoing enhancement of the AML, KYC, and financial crime risk management framework.
• Oversee client onboarding processes, ongoing monitoring, and due diligence standards to ensure adherence to regulatory requirements.
• Conduct enterprise-wide risk assessments, ensuring effective policies, controls, and governance structures are in place.
• Provide timely and accurate reports to regulators, auditors, and executive management on AML and financial crime risks.
• Keep abreast of emerging regulatory developments and industry best practices, advising leadership on their implications for strategy and operations.
• Deliver AML/CTF training across the business to ensure staff understand their obligations and responsibilities.
• Work closely with compliance, product, operations, and finance teams to align commercial initiatives with regulatory requirements.
• Promote a strong compliance culture while balancing business needs in a high-growth environment.

Requirements

• University degree in Law, Finance, Economics, or a related field; a legal qualification is advantageous.
• At least 5+ years of experience in senior compliance or AML roles within financial services, banking, or fintech; crypto experience is strongly valued.
• Direct experience liaising with regulators and supervisory authorities.
• Strong technical knowledge of AML regulations, financial crime frameworks, and ideally blockchain/digital assets.
• Proven leadership capabilities, able to influence senior stakeholders and build high-performing teams.
• Excellent communication skills in English; proficiency in German is highly desirable but not essential.
• A proactive, solutions-oriented mindset, ideally gained in a fast-moving, international or start-up environment.