MLRO - UK

Job description

Why should you join dLocal? dLocal enables the biggest companies in the world to collect payments in 40 countries in emerging markets. Global brands rely on us to increase conversion rates and simplify payment expansion effortlessly. As both a payments processor and a merchant of record where we operate, we make it possible for our merchants to make inroads into the world’s fastest-growing, emerging markets. By joining us you will be a part of an amazing global team that makes it all happen. Being a part of dLocal means working with 1000+ teammates from 30+ different nationalities and developing an international career that impacts millions of people’s daily lives. We are builders, we never run from a challenge, we are customer-centric, and if this sounds like you, we know you will thrive in our team. What’s the opportunity? We are looking for a Head of Compliance (SMF16/17) to lead the Compliance and AML/CFT function for our regulated entity, ensuring the business operates in line with applicable regulatory obligations while supporting sustainable growth in a fast-paced fintech environment. This role will act as the primary point of contact for compliance, financial crime, and regulatory risk matters, partnering closely with global and local stakeholders across the organization. The position combines strategic oversight with hands-on execution across compliance governance, AML/CFT frameworks, risk management, regulatory engagement, and operational resilience initiatives, including DORA-related matters. The ideal candidate will bring strong regulatory and financial crime expertise, experience operating within regulated financial services or payments environments, and the ability to navigate complex international regulatory frameworks while enabling business growth. What will I be doing? Act as the SMF16/17 responsible person for Compliance and AML/CFT matters, ensuring compliance with applicable FCA regulations and financial crime obligations. Serve as the main point of contact for compliance-related queries, providing guidance and support to business stakeholders across the organization. Maintain oversight of the firm’s regulatory risk framework, identifying emerging and existing risks and implementing appropriate mitigation strategies in partnership with the business. Lead and enhance the AML/CFT framework across all relevant jurisdictions and business areas, ensuring alignment with regulatory expectations and internal standards. Develop, review, and maintain compliance policies, procedures, and controls related to AML, sanctions, financial crime, operational resilience, outsourcing, and broader regulatory requirements. Monitor and assess the impact of new and evolving regulations, including PSD3, 6AMLD, DORA, NIS2, CESOP, ESG, and other applicable frameworks. Design and execute compliance monitoring programs, thematic reviews, and testing activities across key regulatory areas and third-party arrangements. Conduct enterprise-wide and cross-border AML/CFT risk assessments, evaluating risks associated with products, services, clients, and geographic exposure. Review and oversee KYC and onboarding processes for new and existing clients, ensuring adherence to AML and regulatory requirements. Investigate compliance incidents, suspicious activity, and regulatory breaches, ensuring appropriate escalation, remediation, and reporting where required, including SAR/STR filings. Prepare and submit regulatory reports and returns to relevant authorities in a timely manner. Produce and present compliance, financial crime, and risk reports to senior management, boards, and governance committees. Partner with Internal Audit, regulators, and law enforcement bodies during inspections, audits, and reviews. Drive training and awareness initiatives to ensure employees remain informed about evolving AML/CFT obligations and regulatory expectations. Support the continuous evolution of the compliance and risk management framework through automation, process improvements, and scalable controls. What skills do I need? 8+ years of experience in Compliance, Financial Crime, Risk, or Regulatory roles within regulated financial services environments. Previous experience operating at SMF16 and/or SMF17 level, or in a senior compliance leadership role, is strongly preferred. Strong knowledge of FCA regulatory requirements, AML/CFT frameworks, sanctions compliance, and financial crime controls. Experience within payments, fintech, retail banking, or international financial services environments is highly preferred. Solid understanding of regulatory frameworks such as PSD3, 6AMLD, DORA, NIS2, CESOP, ESG, and broader operational resilience requirements. Hands-on experience with KYC onboarding, transaction monitoring, suspicious activity investigations, and regulatory reporting. Strong understanding of risk management methodologies and internal control frameworks. Ability to work cross-functionally with senior stakeholders in fast-paced, evolving, and international environments. Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills, with strong attention to detail and commercial judgment. Outstanding communication and stakeholder management skills, including experience presenting to boards, regulators, and executive leadership. Bachelor’s degree in Law, Economics, Finance, Business, or a related field. Professional certifications in Compliance, AML, or Risk Management are a plus. Fluency in English is required. What do we offer? Besides the tailored benefits we have for each country, dLocal will help you thrive and go that extra mile by offering you: - Flexibility: we have flexible schedules and we are driven by performance. - Fintech industry: work in a dynamic and ever-evolving environment, with plenty to build and boost your creativity. - Referral bonus program: our internal talents are the best recruiters - refer someone ideal for a role and get rewarded. - Social budget: you'll get a monthly budget to chill out with your team (in person or remotely) and deepen your connections! - dLocal Houses: want to rent a house to spend one week anywhere in the world coworking with your team? We’ve got your back! Flexibility in how you work: We focus on impact and productivity over fixed hours. This means our teams have flexible schedules and, depending on your role and location, you will combine self‑managed focus time with moments of in‑person connection in our collaboration hubs. What happens after you apply? Our Talent Acquisition team is invested in creating the best candidate experience possible, so don’t worry, you will definitely hear from us. We will review your CV and keep you posted by email at every step of the process! Also, you can check out our webpage, Linkedin and Youtube for more about dLocal!