AVP/VP Compliance

The Company

Our client is a securities entity headquartered in Asia, with institutional, investment banking and retail businesses in more than ten markets worldwide.

Its Singapore branch has a well-established securities business serving institutional investors, and it is now launching a digital retail investing platform locally. The technology, product and operations leads for the launch are already in place.

Until now, much of the compliance oversight for Singapore was handled at head office. The firm is now building a stronger local compliance function, with more growth planned once the retail platform goes live.

This AVP/VP role sits in the compliance team and reports to the Head of Compliance. It is a hands-on position with real exposure to a platform launch, and a chance to grow as the business scales.

Responsibilities

• Help review and update compliance policies, procedures and controls for both the institutional and retail businesses, in line with Singapore regulatory requirements
• Support the Head of Compliance on MAS matters, including licensing queries, regulatory submissions, inspections and thematic reviews
• Give day-to-day regulatory advice to front office, operations, technology and product teams on new products, platform features, outsourcing and partnerships
• Act as a compliance checkpoint as the retail platform is built and launched, with a focus on customer protection and conduct
• Carry out monitoring and oversight across AML/CFT, client due diligence, trade surveillance, market conduct, representative conduct and conflicts of interest, working closely with the KYC team
• Help design and run a risk-based monitoring plan and a product approval process
• Coordinate with external law firms on contract and documentation reviews
• Prepare compliance reports for senior management and committees, and flag issues early
• Run compliance training and awareness sessions across the business

Requirements

• Around 8–12 years of compliance experience in a MAS-regulated financial institution. Title will be AVP or VP depending on experience.
• Background in regulatory compliance and advisory. A profile limited to KYC/AML operations will not be broad enough.
• Experience in securities, brokerage, capital markets, asset management or wealth management. Exposure to institutional and retail clients is a plus.
• Good working knowledge of the SFA, FAA, MAS notices and guidelines, SGX rules and AML/CFT requirements
• Practical experience drafting policies and putting controls in place
• Exposure to online trading, fintech or digital financial services is an advantage
• A clear communicator who is comfortable working with business teams and preparing material for senior stakeholders
• Proactive and adaptable, and enjoys working in a business that is still being built
• Degree in law, finance, accounting or a related field. ICA, CAMS or similar qualifications are a bonus.
• Must meet MAS Fit and Proper criteria
• Office-based in the CBD, five days a week