Compliance & AML Officer

Farrer & Co is an independent law firm, with a rich history. A centuries-long tradition of advising private families, individuals and charitable institutions is today complemented by our work with Businesses, Financial Services, Individuals, Families and Family Offices (IFFO), Education and Not For Profit organisations.

We look to be the market leader in our chosen areas of expertise, advising clients on the contentious and non-contentious legal, business and personal issues they face.

Our reputation and success is based on the goodwill of numerous close client relationships. We are trusted advisers, acting in our clients' long-term interests and paying careful attention to quality and personal service.

Our clients tell us they value us for our integrity, good judgement and professional excellence, as well as our broad perspective, practical solutions and value for money. They describe us as 'a likeable bunch' too.

The team is responsible for the development and overall control of all matters relating to the firm's financial policies, financial affairs and administration.

The Compliance & AML Officer is required to provide support and assistance to the Risk & Compliance Manager, Risk Management Committee and other members of the wider firm in relation to client opening, anti-money laundering and various risk and compliance matters.

• Monitoring new client and new matter openings to ensure that all necessary information and AML documentation is supplied, including reviewing initial risk assessments and PEP status and following up with enquiries to fee-earners where necessary. Assisting secretaries with trouble-shooting the electronic system and providing guidance on internal procedures.

• Identifying potential PEPs and high risk clients and using the firm's due diligence information providers to raise any concerns (including reputational risk) regarding any whom may be on a government financial sanctions list within the UK or worldwide. Monitoring periodically any such clients recorded in our PEP and high risk client Register.

• Working closely with fee earners and secretaries to advise them on client due diligence requirements and the Money Laundering, Terrorist Financing and Transfer of Funds (Information on the Payer) Regulations 2017.

• Preparing, circulating and monitoring regularly reports detailing clients with outstanding AML requirements and following up until completion. Circulating monthly reports to Departmental Secretarial Managers. Preparing and circulating the daily new clients and new matters email to the firm.

• Liaising with the Accounts Treasury team re AML issues (such as unapproved funds received into client account or third party payments).

• Carrying out inductions for new joiner secretaries in relation to client opening and AML requirements.

• Ownership and maintenance of the firm's AML intranet page and its contents including drafting internal guidance notes on AML matters and due diligence checklists.

• Organising and attending quarterly Money Laundering Reporting Officer group meetings to discuss current issues, problems and best practice and producing minutes.

• Maintenance of the firm's Undertakings, Gifts & Hospitality and PEP Registers using online software.

• Contributing to Finance & Risk Team-specific projects, steering groups or committees and maintaining an awareness of any other Business Services area initiatives or system implementations.

• Assisting with annual renewals of professional indemnity insurance and general insurance policies and dealing with general enquiries.

• Assisting with maintenance of the firm's quality accreditations (including Lexcel).

• Assisting with the firm's internal annual file review exercise.

• Assisting with the implementation and management of the firm's information security barriers.

• Dealing with everyday queries from fee earners / Business Services staff on core compliance topics and advising on the firm's BASS office manual and supporting Annexures.

• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal.

• Strong attention to detail and able to effectively manage and prioritise workloads during busy periods.

• Excellent IT Skills and competency in client onboarding software and Microsoft Office applications.

• Good understanding of the Money Laundering, Terrorist Financing and Transfer of Funds (Information on the Payer) Regulations 2017 and associated legislation.

• Strong team player with an enthusiastic and proactive approach.

• Excellent interpersonal and written communication skills are required, as is a positive approach and the ability to work confidently and competently with all levels of staff.

• Must be able to prioritise, multi-task and meet tight deadlines.

• Demonstrable experience of at least 3 years working within a risk & compliance role in a legal services environment.

• A desire to learn.

• Qualified to GCSE standard, grade C (or equivalent) at Mathematics and English essential

• Our standard office hours are 9.30am to 5.30pm but, a degree of flexibility is required to support the needs of the business, especially at month ends.