Head of Compliance

Job Title: Head of Compliance

Office Address: Victoria Island, Lagos

Reports To: Board Audit & Compliance Committee

Division: Group-Level

Job Type: Full Time

Work Structure: Hybrid

Role Overview

The Head of Compliance is responsible for leading and overseeing all compliance activities in line with Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) regulations and global best practices.

The role ensures robust regulatory compliance, AML/CFT oversight, risk monitoring, internal control support, and operational discipline across all business units. The Head of Compliance will partner with leadership teams to strengthen governance structures, improve process integrity, and enhance audit readiness.

Key Responsibilities 1. REGULATORY & COMPLIANCE MANAGEMENT (Primary) Regulatory Compliance

• Ensure full compliance with all CBN regulations, circulars, and regulatory expectations.
• Develop, implement, and maintain enterprise-wide compliance frameworks and policies.
• Monitor regulatory updates and interpret implications for the organization.

AML/CFT Oversight

• Provide leadership for Anti-Money Laundering/Countering the Financing of Terrorism (AML/CFT) compliance.
• Oversee suspicious transaction monitoring and reporting to regulatory agencies.
• Enforce effective KYC, CDD, and EDD processes across all financial operations.
• Conduct AML/CFT awareness and compliance training for staff.

Regulatory Reporting & Engagement

• Prepare and file all mandatory returns accurately and promptly.
• Coordinate regulatory inquiries, examinations, and audits.
• Maintain productive relationships with regulatory bodies including CBN and NFIU.

Product & Operational Compliance

• Review new products, features, integrations, and processes to identify compliance risks.
• Collaborate with Product, Engineering, Finance, and Operations teams to ensure regulatory alignment.
• Promote a strong culture of compliance across the organization.

2. RISK MANAGEMENT & INTERNAL CONTROL SUPPORT Risk Monitoring

• Identify compliance and operational risks and propose mitigation strategies.
• Maintain and update a comprehensive compliance risk register across all business areas.

Internal Process Assurance

• Review internal processes for alignment with policies, regulatory standards, and controls.
• Improve efficiency, internal controls, and fraud-prevention mechanisms in collaboration with relevant teams.
• Support readiness for internal and external audits.

Leadership Collaboration

• Provide compliance insights to senior management and group leadership.
• Share best practices that strengthen governance structures and controls.
• Participate in cross-functional discussions related to risk, compliance, and process improvement.

Equality Statement

The role requires a strong commitment to promoting equality, fairness, and inclusion in employment and service delivery.

Qualifications & Experience Key Qualifications

• Bachelor's Degree in Accounting, Finance, Economics, Law, Business Administration, or related field.
• Master's degree is an added advantage.

Professional Certifications

• AML/CFT certifications (CAMS, ACAMS, ICA).
• ICAN/ACCA (preferred for audit or finance-focused profiles).
• CFE, CIA, or CISA (added advantage).

Experience

• 6–10 years' experience in one or more of the following:
• Fintech or banking compliance
• Regulatory reporting
• AML/CFT operations
• Risk management or internal control
• Experience in payments, digital finance, switching, or PSSP operations is highly desirable.
• Strong familiarity with CBN compliance requirements.

Key Competencies Technical Competencies

• In-depth understanding of CBN regulatory requirements for PSSPs and digital financial services.
• Strong knowledge of AML/CFT, KYC, and risk governance.
• Ability to evaluate product flows for compliance and operational risks.
• Exceptional documentation and reporting skills.

Behavioral Competencies

• High integrity and sound judgment.
• Strong communication and stakeholder management abilities.
• Detail-oriented, analytical, and process-driven.
• Able to manage pressure and handle sensitive issues discreetly.

Performance Indicators

• Zero regulatory sanctions.
• 100% timely submission of regulatory returns.
• Implementation and adherence to compliance policies.
• Strengthened internal controls and reduced risk exposures.
• High audit readiness and compliance culture across teams.
• Strong AML/CFT performance across operations.

Main Working Relationships

Close collaboration with all support teams, leadership units, and business verticals across the organization.

What We Offer / Benefits

• Innovative and flexible work culture.
• Competitive compensation package.
• Continuous training and professional development.
• Private health insurance.
• Employer pension contribution.

Job Type: Full-time