Head of Compliance

Drive global compliance and shape the future of a high-growth cross-border payments business

A fast-scaling global fintech is seeking an exceptional Head of Compliance to lead its compliance function end-to-end — and serve as the future MLRO for its upcoming UK crypto licence.

This is a career-defining opportunity to build and scale compliance in a high-growth environment operating across the UK, Africa, Asia, and the Middle East.

The role can be based in the UK (ideally), or alternatively in Europe or South Africa.

This role is critical to the organisation’s growth, as you will play a central part in securing the UK crypto licence and will serve as the MLRO. You will build, lead, and mature the full compliance framework — including KYC, AML, transaction monitoring, and policy governance — while reducing regulatory and market-entry risks across multiple regions. In addition, you will engage directly with UK and global regulators, helping shape the company’s broader expansion strategy and ensuring strong compliance foundations across all markets.

• Lead regulatory and compliance strategy
• Build and manage compliance frameworks, policies, and procedures
• Oversee KYC, AML, and transaction monitoring workflows
• Engage with regulators and external advisors
• Advise internal teams on regulatory requirements
• Act as DPO where required
• Serve as future MLRO for UK crypto licence
• Grow and lead the compliance team

• 7–10 years’ experience in compliance within fintech, finance, payments, or crypto
• 1–2 years of crypto compliance experience
• Experience in scaling/early-stage environments
• Deep KYC, AML, and transaction monitoring experience
• Ability to work cross-functionally and across global jurisdictions

Fintech/startup experience, DPO or MLRO background, certifications (e.g., CCEP), emerging market exposure

If you're a Compliance Leader ready to build and own compliance in a scaling global fintech — I’d love to hear from you.

Senior International Recruitment Consultant
Executive Search & International Recruitment - Africa