European Counsel - Risk and Compliance

A law firm in London are looking for an Interim European Counsel (6 months) initially. (There is the potential for the role to become permanent).

Key responsibilities

The role is responsible on a day-to-day basis for legal and regulatory compliance in England & Wales.

• AML and Market Abuse Regulation (MAR) processes.
• Work closely with and provide support to the AML and Accounts teams based in the Hong Kong office in relation to AML compliance and related matters in Asia.
• Provide support to the Firm’s US offices and General Counsel’s Office regarding the application and implementation of applicable European legislation, including data protection, criminal finances/failure to prevent, AML Regulations and MAR.
• Act as the main point of contact for and advise the Firm on compliance related matters in the London office.
• Lead the development, implementation and revision of written policies, controls and procedures, as required.
• Lead audits for key clients creating processes and adapting policies where required
• Provide leadership and advice to the Firm in connection with regulatory and legislative matters
• Provide leadership on risk management and maintain the Firm’s risk, breach, data breach, complaints and gifts & hospitality registers
• Work with the COLP and the Operational Management Team in London to ensure that the Firm’s practice in England & Wales is compliant with the SRA’s Code of Conduct/ Standards & Regulations
• Support the COLP to ensure compliance with and advise the Firm on legislation.
• Responsible for managing the client due diligence (CDD) and anti-money laundering verification process for clients and third party payers on European matters and US matters.
• Provide leadership and strategic direction in connection with the development of the Firm’s AML policies, controls and processes (PCPs).
• Work closely with and provide support to the London based Data Protection Partner, the Firm’s Privacy Team and General Counsel’s Office in relation to GDPR and local data protection laws.
• Develop and deliver compliance training for lawyers and support staff in the London office,
• Meet/report weekly to the COLP, London Office Heads and London Director of Office Administration.

The role provides support to the Compliance Officer for Legal Practice, the Compliance Officer for Finance and Administration, the Money Laundering Reporting Officer, the Operational Management Team in London (Accounts, HR, Office Services), the Data Protection Partner and the wider Privacy Team and the Office of General Counsel in New York.

What we're looking for:

• A credible and trusted senior member of staff who is able to influence others and is regarded as an expert
• Previous experience in a senior level compliance role in a law firm
• Previous experience of managing a team
• Sound knowledge and understanding of the regulations governing a law firm in England & Wales.

The firm are offering a salary of £160,000 - £190,000 depending on experience.

This is a varied role. Whilst the role is initially an interim role, there is a long term opportunity with the firm.

If you have any further questions about this opportunity, please don't hesitate to contact Rowena at Lewis Row Recruitment.