AML Risk & Compliance Analyst
Cooley (UK) LLP is seeking an AML Risk & Compliance Analyst to join the team.
Position Summary: Under the supervision of the AML Risk and Compliance Manager, and following prescribed department, office and Firm procedures, the AML Risk and Compliance Analyst is responsible for the timely and accurate processing of Anti-Money Laundering (AML) checks. The role supports the Firm’s Money Laundering Reporting Officer (MLRO), the Assistant General Counsel (Europe and Asia) and the AML Risk and Compliance Manager in all areas of AML compliance.
Position Responsibilities:
- Timely completion of AML process for all Firm clients, prioritising clients of the UK and BR offices, and assisting with Asia AML checks when delegated.
- Performing Client Due Diligence (CDD) on entities identified, through various publicly available and Firm sources, and liaising with partners to obtain information needed.
- Performing Politically Exposed Person searches as necessary on natural persons, collecting personal identification and storing securely.
- Conducting sanctions screening on natural persons and entities, including performing research across different sanctions regimes and applying working knowledge of global sanctions frameworks to identify potential risks.
- Updating Firm software tools and databases with relevant information in a timely manner.
- Analyzing and evaluating AML software tools and databases.
- Compiling relevant information into final AML pack for sign off by AML Managers.
- Performing follow ups on outstanding AML files, ongoing monitoring on completed AML files and periodic checks on personal identification documentation obtained, as necessary.
- Assisting the AML Risk and Compliance Manager and Senior Risk and Compliance Manager in the review of the AML CDD process and implementation of new and more efficient processes and procedures.
- Taking ownership of workflow and backlog resolution to ensure timely reduction of threshold items.
- Assisting in preparing and gathering materials for external audit requests.
- Attending AML Team meetings.
- Providing cover for other AML Team members when they are on leave.
- Providing training and guidance to new Team members.
- Perform other tasks and assist with special projects as requested by the MLRO or other AML Team members.
- To communicate regularly with, and to immediately report any problems or potential areas of AML compliance concern to the MLRO.
Skills & Experience:
Required:
- Knowledge of relevant AML legislation and guidance.
- Minimum 3 years’ experience of performing CDD checks on entities and individuals (preferably in a law firm)
- Educated to a degree level or equivalent (LLB preferred, England & Wales or equivalent jurisdiction).
- A high standard of oral and written communication skills.
- Strong attention to detail and high level of accuracy.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, including Word, Excel, Outlook and PowerPoint
- Strong research skills, including via internet, databases and other sources.
- Ability to manage multiple priorities and adjust to changing priorities in a professional manner.
- Ability to work independently and with a team.
- Willingness and ability to assume new tasks and responsibilities.
- Strong service orientation and an ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with attorneys, secretaries and peers.
- Ability to meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
- May be required to work outside of regular business hours.
- Commitment to the office and Firm, including adherence to required in‑office attendance expectations.
Competencies:
- Ability to think critically in analysing and solving problems.
- Good presence and ability to work well with all personnel.
- Excellent organisational skills.
- Reliable and cooperative manner.
- Ability to work under pressure and handle multiple tasks while maintaining confidentiality.
- The ability to independently assess client needs and to develop appropriate responsive solutions.
- The ability to work effectively both independently and collaboratively and to foster a culture of team work.
- A keen interest in and commitment to keeping up to date with relevant technology, products and services and developing professionally.
- Maintaining awareness of global current affairs and developments impacting AML and sanctions risk.
- The aptitude and confidence to challenge and change existing practices, adopt innovative approaches and drive these forward through to implementation.
- The ability to forge effective working relationships and to influence at a senior level.
- Ability to organise and prioritise work assignments, as well as delegate tasks to support departments when necessary.
- Possess excellent written, communication and proofreading skills with attention to detail.
- Ability to function in a professional and polite manner.
- Committed and punctual.
- Professional in approach and able to deal with staff at all levels.
- Service delivery focused with ability to recognise pressure points and to offer assistance where needed.
- Confident and demonstrates the ability to command respect.
- Organised and efficient - able to prioritise and manage own workload and work without supervision.
- Highly motivated and enthusiastic to lead by example.
- Team player.
- Proactive.
- Ability to embrace organisational change.
- Ability to deal with confidential situations with tact, diplomacy and discretion.
Reporting to this position: No direct reports.
Cooley offers an excellent benefits package and competitive compensation including:
- Enhanced family leave
- Health and dental insurance
- Group income protection
- Life assurance
- Pension
- Fertility benefits
- Wellness programs
- Employee discounts including a fitness and nutrition allowance
- And more!
A comprehensive benefits brochure will be provided to all candidates during the interview process.
Equal Opportunity Statement:
We strive to create an inclusive and rewarding environment that allows our people to thrive both professionally and personally. In order to provide equal employment and advancement opportunities to all individuals, employment decisions at the Firm will be based on merit, qualifications and abilities. The Firm does not discriminate in employment opportunities or practices on the basis of age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, sexual orientation. This policy governs all aspects of employment, including but not limited to, recruitment, selection, job assignment, compensation, discipline, promotion, termination, and access to benefits and training.
Cooley (UK) LLP is dedicated to making our recruitment practices and candidate interviews inclusive and accessible for everyone. If you have a medical condition, disability or are neurodivergent and require reasonable accommodations, adjustments or support during your interview process, please contact LNHR@cooley.com. We assure you all requests will be treated with sensitivity and strict confidentiality, and they will not affect your potential employment with Cooley (UK) LLP.
