AML & Financial Crime Assistant Vice President

Who we are

United by a sense of purpose towards our customers – to be a trusted partner for the long-term – and our universal banking platform in EMEA, SMBC Group has an international growth agenda and award-winning products, meaning we provide exciting opportunities to work on a diverse range of projects and initiatives. We deliver a full suite of corporate finance products and solutions to our customers as well as investment banking and advisory services, and a range of innovative solutions in global capital markets. Read on to find out how you could enhance your skills and gain valuable experience, by joining us to support our clients transition to a sustainable future.

Role Summary

The position plays a critical role in supporting SMBC’s Financial Crime Management Group (FCMG) by delivering enhanced governance, actionable insights, and operational excellence across all EMEA offices. The role focuses on strengthening SMBC’s Customer Lifecycle Management (CLM) and Customer Due Diligence (CDD) processes, encompassing client onboarding, periodic reviews, and exit strategies. A key responsibility is to ensure these processes remain robust, compliant, and aligned with regulatory expectations while enabling business efficiency.

The role also involves maintaining and updating documentation and user guides for EIC2 (Exposure Information Control), SMBC’s core banking platform that underpins customer account opening, credit applications, exposure approvals, and related workflows. Acting as a subject matter expert, the individual will provide BAU support and contribute to project-driven enhancements within the CDD and CLM domains, ensuring smooth integration of technology and compliance requirements.

Business Area

This role is integral to SMBC’s commitment to financial crime prevention and operational resilience. By embedding within the first line of defense, the position ensures effective functioning of CLM/CDD systems and supports sustainable management of client lifecycle controls. The role requires proactive analysis to identify and resolve potential production issues, safeguarding system integrity and minimizing risk exposure.The individual will act as a liaison between business and technology teams, maintaining visibility on system enhancements, regulatory developments, and audit recommendations. Collaboration with Compliance Planning Department (CPD) and Regulatory Compliance teams across EMEA is essential to ensure transparency and alignment on system changes, testing, and impact assessments. Additionally, the role will support the deployment of SMBC’s new cloud-based CDD platform (Fenergo X), contributing expertise to ensure successful implementation.

Position Description

Key Responsibilities 

Split responsibilities across CDD and EIC, providing equal focus on both areas.

Analyze and assess client due diligence processes, risk scoring methodologies, and onboarding logic to maintain strong controls.

Develop and document requirements for process and system enhancements, ensuring clarity and alignment with business objectives.

Monitor process effectiveness using MI and dashboards, identifying opportunities for improvement.

Lead requirements gathering sessions and provide business analysis expertise for CLM/CDD-related projects.

Champion best practices and implement recommendations from CPD and Internal Audit.Collaborate with senior stakeholders to deliver improvements that enhance operational efficiency and system architecture.

Produce and present MI to senior management, highlighting system performance and client risk profiles.

Knowledge, Skills & Experience 

Proven experience in financial crime prevention, CLM, and CDD environments.

Strong understanding of AML, KYC, and regulatory requirements.

Proficiency in Microsoft 365 tools and familiarity with both waterfall and agile methodologies.

Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills.

Experience working with system vendors and technology teams to deliver business benefits.

Bachelor’s degree or equivalent in business analysis, project management, or related fields. 

Challenges
The role operates within a dynamic environment characterized by high volumes of change and transformation initiatives. Balancing BAU responsibilities with project demands, addressing audit recommendations, and supporting the expansion of FCMG capabilities will require adaptability, resilience, and strong problem-solving skills. 

Competencies

What we offer

For all the expertise and experience you bring to help us make a difference, it’s only sustainable if we support you to build your career and be your best self so we offer competitive company benefits, centred around promoting positive well-bring and work-life balance. We also believe in fostering a diverse and inclusive work environment, where all team members perspectives and contributions are valued. Initiatives in place which promote a diverse and inclusive culture and healthy work life balance include hybrid working, Sport & Social Clubs and Diversity and Inclusion networks.

As an employee of SMBC you have access to a host of both useful and exciting benefit offerings. See below some of the benefits on offer to you:

• Hybrid and flexible working 
• Competitive paid leave days
• Benefits to support your physical wellbeing, including private medical insurance and life and invalidity insurance 
• Various policies to support your mental wellbeing, including a robust behavioural health network with counselling and coaching services  
• Access a wide range of learning and development opportunities and career progression opportunities 
• Ambitious remuneration package

So, if you like a challenge and want to continuously grow and develop in a role where you will be supported along the way by a dynamic and diverse team, apply today!!