AML Compliance Analyst

About Withers

A law firm focused on people, performance, and collaboration.

For the past 130 years, we have supported some of the world’s most remarkable people and organizations at defining moments in their lives.

We are united in our commitment to integrity, quality and collaboration. We have a culture of high performance and deliver excellent service consistently across the firm. We provide tailored solutions built on trust and partner with our clients to achieve their goals.

Many of our clients are shaping the future and creating solutions to tackle many of the world’s problems. It makes for a fascinating and challenging practice.

Our role is to get to know each individual client, find out where they want to be, and help them to get there – whether they are building a business, buying a home or protecting and defending their interests.

To meet their unique needs we are exceptionally collaborative, working together across teams and time zones. And we are agile – focusing on strategy rather than rigid ideas and traditional hierarchy.

Join us to be part of a team that is always looking to the future. Where initiative, big ideas and bold moves are always encouraged. Where you can truly be yourself.

What are we looking for?

As part of the firm's continued investment in its global Risk and Compliance function, we are expanding our centralised AML team. This role offers the opportunity to play a key part in protecting the firm from financial crime risks while supporting the efficient onboarding of clients across a leading international law firm.

The AML Compliance Analysts will support the firm’s financial crime compliance programme, including AML, sanctions and related regulatory obligations.  The role involves carrying out client due diligence, preparing client and matter risk assessments, and supporting the business in meeting its obligations under applicable laws, regulations and internal policies.

Ideal candidates will already be working within a similar role at a law firm and will ideally have experience working as part of a of a centralized team,

Areas of focus and responsibilities

• Review and assess client and matter risk, including source of funds and source of wealth information.
• Undertake client due diligence (CDD) and enhanced due diligence (EDD) in accordance with firm policies and procedures, to include requesting and obtaining the correct documentation from clients and completing anti-money laundering due diligence paperwork to ensure matters can be opened promptly.
• Assisting with the firm's third-party payment process to ensure all compliance requirements are dealt with before payment requests are submitted for approval.
• Reviewing screening hits (PEPs and sanctions/watchlist) including adverse media and escalate potential matches.
• Support fee earners with client onboarding queries and provide guidance on AML requirements.
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date records within the firm’s systems.
• Assist with internal audits, file reviews and regulatory inspections.
• Identify and escalate suspicious activity in line with internal procedures.
• Contribute to continuous improvement of AML processes and controls.
• Collaborative working within other business services teams including the Client Relationship, Client Services and Finance teams.

This list of duties and responsibilities is not exhaustive. It is intended to describe the general content of, and requirements for the performance of this job, and as such, the role may also include the undertaking of additional tasks as required. 

Skills and attributes

• A minimum of 18 months experience in an AML or financial crime compliance role within a law firm.
• A good understanding of UK AML regulations, including the Money Laundering Regulations and LSAG guidance.
• Strong analytical and research skills, and capability to absorb, analyse and consolidate large amounts of information.
• Excellent attention to detail and organisational skills.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to engage effectively with stakeholders.
• Ability to manage competing priorities and work to deadlines.

The Essentials

• 9.30am to 5.30pm but flexibility is needed
• Hybrid working policy with a minimum of 2 days per week worked in the office
• 12 week probation period
• 4 week notice period
• Flexible benefits package including pension, private medical, season ticket loan, subsidised gym memberships, lifestyle discount scheme, on site café.