Head of Compliance/Compliance Lead

About the Job

We are seeking a highly motivated Head of Compliance / Compliance Lead to oversee and strengthen our compliance framework in Malaysia. As a registered merchant acquirer, we are committed to maintaining the highest regulatory standards while expanding our licensing scope to include cross-border activities. This role will be pivotal in ensuring our operations remain compliant with local regulations, supporting business growth, and liaising with regulatory authorities.

Minimum Qualifications

Education

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Law, Management, or a related field.

 Experience

• 8+ years of experience in compliance, regulatory affairs, or risk management within the financial services, fintech, or payments industry.

Skills and Competencies

• Strong understanding of BNM regulations, AML/CFT requirements, and cross-border payment frameworks.
• Experience in licensing applications and regulatory engagement.
• Familiarity with merchant acquiring, payment services, or remittance operations is highly preferred.
• Ability to work independently, lead compliance initiatives, and influence stakeholders.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in drafting policies and procedures for compliance or regulatory purposes.
• Knowledge of regional compliance requirements in Southeast Asia or other relevant markets.

Responsibilities

Regulatory Compliance & Licensing

• Ensure compliance with BNM regulations, including merchant acquiring and planned cross-border activities.
• Lead the licensing application process for new regulatory approvals, working closely with internal stakeholders and regulators.
• Monitor and interpret regulatory developments, ensuring timely implementation of changes in laws and guidelines.
• Serve as the primary liaison with BNM and other relevant regulatory bodies.

AML/CFT & Risk Management

• Oversee the AML/CFT compliance programme, ensuring adherence to local and international standards.
• Implement risk-based approaches to transaction monitoring, customer due diligence (CDD), and enhanced due diligence (EDD) for high-risk customers.
• Ensure robust sanctions screening processes are in place, aligned with regulatory requirements.
• Conduct compliance testing and assessments, identifying gaps and ensuring timely remediation.

Compliance Advisory & Business Support

• Provide proactive compliance guidance to business teams on new product launches, partnerships, and commercial initiatives.
• Support the development of internal policies and procedures, ensuring they align with regulatory expectations.
• Deliver compliance training to internal teams, fostering a strong compliance culture.

Reporting & Governance

• Oversee and manage regulatory reporting obligations, ensuring timely and accurate submissions to BNM.
• Maintain and enhance the compliance monitoring framework, ensuring effective oversight of business activities.
• Collaborate with regional compliance teams to harmonise best practices across markets.