Search for a Money Laundering Reporting Officer – Regulated firm in Gibraltar requiring an SMF17 in the UK.

Opportunity

This prime brokerage and online trading platform dealt with both institutional and retail customers. The firm were regulated in Gibraltar with limited permissions in the UK. With the onset of Consumer Duty and the increased regulatory focus on retail customers they felt exposed in the UK and wanted to hire a regulatory specialist with strong technical knowledge of UK legislation.

Approach

Barclay Simpson conducted a search of the market identifying individuals who had a strong product technical background and an understanding of how to apply UK regulations. This role demanded an individual who could work well with the Executive Board in Gibraltar whilst supporting the business in all jurisdictions including guiding the UK office in respect of its emerging risks, along with a commercially focused mindset. The individual also needed to be comfortable in a “hands on” role with a greater understanding of process and procedure while also having the ability to deliver on operational aspects themselves whilst thinking strategically for the future growth of the UK compliance function.

Outcome

An intensive initial search was undertaken to source candidates with the relevant blend of technical experience and commercial understanding. After conducting a series of detailed interviews Barclay Simpson presented a shortlist of candidates. The candidates all met with the Executive board based in Gibraltar by video call and then in person at the London office. The successful candidate showed demonstrable understanding of relevant products, especially around Consumer Duty and Financial Crime responsibilities, along with the ability to assess regulatory impact on business operations including systems, processes and policies. The preferred candidate was offered and following negotiations which Barclay Simpson supported the client also received support to complete the necessary due diligence and onboarding to ensure a smooth start to the engagement.