Customer Onboarding Specialist, Small Business Banking

We are seeking a detail-oriented and proactive Customer Onboarding Specialist to join our growing AML operations team. In this role, you will be responsible for conducting thorough due diligence reviews of clients at on-boarding to ensure compliance with internal AML requirements. You will play a crucial part in identifying potential money laundering risks, escalating suspicious activity, and supporting the company's efforts to maintain a strong anti-money laundering (AML) program.

The ideal candidate will have a strong understanding of AML regulations, excellent analytical skills, and the ability to make sound decisions in a fast-paced and dynamic environment.

The Work !

• Customer Due Diligence (CDD) and Enhanced Due Diligence (EDD): Conduct CDD and EDD on clients and transactions to assess the risk of money laundering or other financial crimes. Perform open-source search checks, analyze customer information including documentation, and verify sources of funds as necessary.
• Risk Assessment: Evaluate and categorize clients based on risk factors, such as geographical location, industry, and customer profile according to internal risk scoring methodology and guidance. Maintain up-to-date records of risk assessments and adjust them as necessary.
• Escalate Suspicious Activity: Review and analyze money laundering, terrorist financing and sanctions evasion red flags and potential suspicious activity that may require further investigation by the AML Compliance team.
• Regulatory Compliance: Stay current with evolving AML regulations and industry best practices. Ensure that the company’s AML due diligence procedures and controls comply with internal AML requirements.
• Reporting and Documentation: Maintain comprehensive records of all due diligence activities, client interactions, and investigative reports. Prepare reports and provide recommendations for internal audits and regulatory inspections.
• Collaboration: Work closely with other departments, such as legal, operations, and risk management, to ensure a cohesive approach to anti-money laundering efforts. Provide guidance and training to staff on AML procedures and policies.
• Continuous Improvement:
• Contribute to the enhancement of the AML compliance program by identifying inefficiencies and recommending improvements to policies, procedures, and systems.

Let's Talk About You !

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Accounting, Business, Criminal Justice, or a related field. AML or compliance certifications (e.g., ACAMS, ICA, or similar) are a plus.
• Experience: At least 2 years of experience in an AML compliance or due diligence role, preferably within the financial services industry (banking, insurance, fintech, etc.).
• Knowledge: Working knowledge of regulatory requirements for AML/ATF and sanction risk, industry best practices and/or organizational goals for AML/ATF typologies; essential).

Skills:

• Excellent analytical and investigative skills, with the ability to assess complex data and identify risks.
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy in documentation and reporting.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities under pressure.
• Proficient in the use of AML software and databases
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to clearly articulate findings and recommendations.
• Advanced Excel skills specifically ability to create macros and v-lookups
• Ability to organise and compile data to produce metric reports;
• Strong organizational skills, demonstrates ability to prioritize assignments, projects and multi-task within restricted time constraints;

Additional Attributes:

• High ethical standards and the ability to maintain confidentiality.
• Problem-solving mindset with a proactive approach to compliance issues.
• Ability to adapt to evolving regulations and organizational needs.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience with sanctions and politically exposed persons (PEPs).
• Knowledge of data privacy regulations and how they intersect with AML compliance.
• Familiarity with transaction monitoring systems, screening tools, and other compliance software platforms.