Head of Compliance & MLRO (FSI)

Seeking a seasoned Compliance leader to serve as the foundational regulatory pillar, building a best-in-class compliance function from the ground up. This is a critical, hands-on leadership role for an individual who can architect the entire compliance framework, secure the MPI license, and embed a culture of integrity and regulatory excellence within a dynamic, fast-paced environment. You will be the trusted expert and primary interface with the MAS, shaping the future of compliance for a rapidly scaling fintech business. The Role You will be entrusted with the full spectrum of compliance, AML/CFT, and data protection responsibilities. Your mandate is to develop, implement, and own a robust, scalable Compliance Management Framework that not only meets but exceeds regulatory expectations under the Payment Services Act (PSA) and other relevant legislation. You will act as the de-facto Chief Compliance Officer, MLRO, and Data Protection Officer, serving as the primary regulatory liaison and a key advisor to the Board and senior management. Key Responsibilities Regulatory Strategy & Licensing: • Act as the primary point of contact and liaison with the MAS, managing all aspects of the regulatory relationship. • Own and drive the MPI license application process to its successful conclusion, coordinating all submissions, responses, and engagements. • Translate complex regulatory requirements (PSA, FSMA, MAS Notices) into clear, actionable business policies, processes, and technological controls. • Maintain a comprehensive regulatory horizon-scanning function to anticipate and prepare for new regulations. Compliance Framework & Governance • Design, implement, and continuously enhance the end-to-end Compliance Management Framework and related policies (AML/CFT, Sanctions, ABC, PDPA). • Conduct periodic compliance risk assessments, control reviews, and gap analyses, ensuring effective remediation. • Provide clear, concise reporting to the Board and senior management on compliance status, risks, and regulatory developments. AML/CFT & Financial Crime Oversight (as MLRO) • Serve as the appointed Money Laundering Reporting Officer (MLRO). • Build and oversee the entire AML/CFT program, including KYC/EDD standards, transaction monitoring, sanctions screening, and suspicious activity reporting. • Conduct Enterprise-Wide Risk Assessments (EWRA) and ensure all systems and processes are calibrated to the company’s risk profile. • Serve as the central point for liaising with law enforcement and regulatory bodies on financial crime matters. Data Protection & Privacy (as DPO) • Fulfill the statutory responsibilities of the Data Protection Officer (DPO) under the PDPA. • Develop a robust data privacy governance framework, ensuring alignment with both PDPA and MAS Technology Risk Management guidelines. • Advise on data privacy by design in new products and initiatives, and manage data incident response protocols. Advisory, Culture & Leadership • Provide trusted, pragmatic compliance advice to all business units on product launches, partnerships, and strategic initiatives. • Build, mentor, and lead a high-performing compliance team, scaling the function in line with business growth. • Champion a pervasive culture of compliance and ethical conduct through company-wide training, engagement, and clear communication. • Represent the company in relevant industry forums and associations. Experience & Qualifications • Minimum of 10 years of progressive compliance experience within heavily regulated financial services, with at least 5 years in a leadership role within fintech, payments, or digital banking. • Non-negotiable expertise in Singapore's regulatory landscape: deep, hands-on experience with the PSA, MAS AML/CFT regulations, PDPA, and FSMA. Prior experience with an MPI license application is highly advantageous. • Proven track record as a primary regulatory liaison (MAS) and in building or significantly transforming a compliance framework. • Professional certifications (e.g., CAMS, ICA, ACFCS) are strongly preferred. • A Bachelor’s degree in Law, Finance, Business, or a related field. Skills & Attributes • Architect & Builder: Ability to design scalable systems and frameworks from a blank slate, not just manage existing ones. • Practical Translator: Exceptional skill in converting regulatory text into efficient, business-pragmatic processes and technical requirements. • Resilient Leader: Proactive, hands-on, and thrives in a fast-paced, ambiguous environment where you must set the direction. • Influential Communicator: Excellent stakeholder management abilities, with the credibility to advise senior leadership and engage constructively with regulators. • High Integrity: Unquestionable ethics and a commitment to fostering a culture of accountability and transparency. Please be informed that only shortlisted candidate will be notified. For more information, you may reach out to Jamie at her email at jamie.tan@pe...