Head of Compliance

Summary

Join a leading, globally expanding trading platform as their Head of Compliance. Lead the compliance function, ensuring adherence to all regulatory requirements, especially those set by the Financial Sector Conduct Authority of South Africa (FSCA). Develop, implement, and enforce internal policies and procedures to mitigate compliance risks. Oversee AML/CFT frameworks, conduct risk assessments, and report suspicious activities. Develop and administer compliance training programs, monitor employee conduct, and address conflicts of interest. Oversee licensing, reporting, and complaints management. Lead and mentor the South Africa compliance team, collaborating with other departments to foster a strong compliance culture. This role requires significant experience in compliance leadership within the financial services industry and a deep understanding of relevant South African regulations.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Law, Business, or a related discipline or another FSCA-recognised NQF Level 7 qualification (relevant postgraduate qualification will be considered an advantage)
• Regulatory Examination RE1 (completed or in progress)
• Minimum of 5 years' experience in a compliance leadership role in the financial services industry, preferably within the derivatives or investment space, preferably with exposure to products such as Securities, OTC derivatives (such as CFDs), Futures and/or Options
• Strong understanding of the FAIS Act, Financial Markets Act, and associated FSCA and FMA regulations
• Experience in retail investments, trading and/or retail financial services
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and stakeholder engagement skills
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Strong leadership and mentoring ability
• Capable of handling complex and non-routine compliance challenges
• High ethical standards and commitment to integrity and transparency
• Resilient under pressure and adaptable in a fast-paced environment
• Must meet FSCA Fit and Proper requirements, including CPD obligations

Responsibilities

• Ensure ongoing compliance with all applicable FSCA laws, regulations, notices, and guidelines
• Develop, implement, and maintain compliance policies tailored to the South Africa regulatory environment
• Submit required regulatory filings and notifications in a timely manner
• Report compliance issues and status to the Board of Directors and Group Compliance
• Maintain a comprehensive compliance monitoring programme
• Design, implement, and maintain an effective AML/CFT local framework
• Conduct regular AML/CFT risk assessments and report suspicious activity to the relevant authorities
• Supervise transaction monitoring (KYT) and sanctions screening
• Ensure proper execution of CDD and EDD for onboarding and ongoing monitoring
• Maintain accurate records of AML/CFT controls and regulatory interactions
• Provide AML/CFT training to staff on a regular basis
• Develop and administer compliance training programs across all staff levels
• Monitor employee adherence to internal codes of conduct, trading policies, and ethical standards
• Address and mitigate potential conflicts of interest
• Maintain the appointed representatives register and ensure compliance with CPD requirements
• Ensure representatives and Key Individuals meet qualification and training standards, and manage the Company’s licensing obligations
• Oversee licensing status of employees, including representatives and appointed persons
• Support internal and external audits, ensuring timely remediation of findings
• Lead regulatory engagement and ensure timely and accurate reporting to the FSCA and other authorities
• Assisting with FSCA licensing applications
• Lead and mentor the South Africa compliance team
• Work closely with front office, legal, operations, and technology teams to embed a strong compliance culture
• Represent compliance at senior management meetings and internal committees

Benefits

• Competitive Salary: We believe great work deserves great pay! Your skills and talents will be rewarded with a salary that makes you feel valued and motivated
• Work-Life Harmony: Join a company that genuinely cares about you - because your life outside of work matters just as much as your time on the clock. #LI-Hybrid
• Annual Performance Bonus: Your hard work doesn’t go unnoticed! Celebrate your achievements with a well-deserved annual bonus tied to your performance
• Generous Time Off: Need a breather? Our annual leave policy lets you recharge and enjoy life outside of work without a worry
• Employee Referral Program: Love working here? Share the love! Bring your talented friends on board and get rewarded for growing our awesome team
• Comprehensive Health & Pension Benefits: From medical insurance to pension plans, we’ve got your back. Plus, location-specific benefits and perks!
• Workation Wonderland: Live your digital nomad dreams with 30 extra days to work remotely from anywhere in the world (some restrictions apply). Adventure awaits!
• Volunteer Days: Make a difference! Take two additional paid days each year to support causes you care about and give back to the community