Compliance AML & Control Cross-Function Executive Director

16 Jan 2026

Paris, 75, FR, 75008

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

Is the next step in your career at SMBC Group EMEA? We’re looking for a Head of Compliance and MLRO (Executive Director) to join our team in SMBC Paris.  You will build and lead a high performing team, operating within regulatory expectations and internal standards, while fostering a culture of integrity, accountability, and proactive compliance. You will act as a strategic advisor to senior stakeholders with a client centric mindset but balancing the commercial ambitions of the business with the regulatory framework within which the bank operates.

Business Area

The Compliance department is a critical control function within the bank, making sure that we understand, and operate within the regulatory framework within which the Bank operates.
The department operates on both a Legal Entity and regional basis, driving common standards and approaches across the region, but flexing to meet specific local requirements where required.

Position Description

This is a senior leadership position responsible for heading the Compliance Function of the Paris Branch as we continue to grow our business in the region. The role holder will serve as both the Money Laundering Reporting Officer (MLRO) and Local Compliance Officer (LCO), leading the branch’s Compliance team and ensuring the effective operation of all regulatory, financial crime, and conduct risk controls.

In this role, the individual will define and oversee a risk‑based monitoring programme, report control outcomes to Paris Management and SMBC EU Head of Compliance / co‑RCCOs, and promote a strong compliance culture across the branch. They will provide guidance, advice, and training to all staff to ensure consistent adherence to regulatory and internal requirements.

As MLRO, the role holder will be responsible for the prevention, detection, and reporting of Financial Crime within the branch, including sanctions compliance and the communication of Suspicious Activity Reports to the relevant public authorities. As LCO, they will ensure that all business conducted in France complies with applicable laws, regulations, and internal rules issued by the SMBC Group and SMBCE.

The role holder will maintain transparent and regular communication with public authorities, regulators, and supervisors on all Compliance matters, and will oversee the preparation and timely submission of all required external compliance reporting.

This role leads the Compliance Function and is a member of the CPD/E senior management team, contributing to departmental management, decision‑making, and strategic planning.

Competencies

Customer Focus
Driving Change
Driving Results
Embraces Diversity
Enterprise Leadership
Judgement and Decision Making
Risk Management
Strategic and Visionary
Trust and Integrity

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!!

About SMBC

A trusted partner for the long term
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, we deliver a full suite of corporate finance products and solutions to our customers, including corporate, structured and trade finance, leveraged finance, loan market and treasury products. We can also provide investment banking and advisory services and a range of innovative solutions in global capital markets.
Find out more about what we do and who we are at https://www.smbcgroup.com/emea/careers