Compliance Officer

This opportunity within Liberty's Personal and Private Banking division calls for a diligent Compliance Officer to bolster the institution's commitment to regulatory adherence. The primary objective of this role is to embed robust compliance risk management practices across the business unit. By ensuring all operations meet stringent legal and ethical standards, the Compliance Officer will play a crucial part in safeguarding the organisation from financial penalties, reputational damage, and operational losses, thereby contributing to its competitive edge. This position offers a chance to contribute to a significant financial services group with a strong footprint across Africa.

About the Role

The Compliance Officer will be instrumental in executing daily compliance risk management activities. This involves actively identifying, assessing, and mitigating potential compliance risks within the Personal and Private Banking sphere. The role demands a proactive approach to understanding and navigating the complex regulatory landscape that governs the banking sector in South Africa and potentially other African regions. Success in this position will mean contributing to a culture of compliance that supports business objectives while upholding the highest standards of integrity. The organisation values its role in fostering growth and creating tangible value for its diverse client base, from individuals to large corporates.

The responsibilities of the Compliance Officer will encompass a range of critical functions aimed at ensuring operational integrity and regulatory alignment. Key duties include:

• **Implementing Compliance Processes:** Actively participating in and executing established compliance risk management processes and activities.
• **Risk Identification and Mitigation:** Identifying potential compliance risks and developing strategies to address them effectively.
• **Regulatory Liaison:** Staying abreast of current and upcoming regulatory requirements applicable to the banking industry and ensuring the business unit remains compliant.
• **Documentation and Reporting:** Drafting essential business documents, comprehensive reports, and detailed compliance risk management plans. This also includes maintaining an accurate regulatory universe.
• **Stakeholder Engagement:** Collaborating effectively with various internal stakeholders, fostering strong working relationships to promote a shared understanding and commitment to compliance.
• **Research and Analysis:** Conducting research to support compliance initiatives and inform decision-making.
• **Process Improvement:** Contributing to the continuous improvement of compliance frameworks and operational procedures.

What They're Looking For

Liberty is seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Compliance Officer with a foundational understanding of the banking sector's regulatory environment. Candidates should possess a relevant first-degree qualification in fields such as Audit, Business Commerce, or Law.

Essential qualifications and experience include:

• A relevant tertiary qualification (e.g., Commerce, Law, Audit).
• 2-5 years of experience in a compliance or business enablement role within the financial services industry.
• A solid grasp of banking regulations and emerging compliance trends.
• Demonstrated experience in drafting various business documents, reports, and compliance plans.
• Proficiency in using generative AI tools, such as Microsoft Copilot, and applying prompt engineering techniques.
• Excellent communication, time management, and stakeholder management skills.
• The ability to work effectively within a team environment.

While not mandatory, experience working within different African regions would be a significant advantage. The ideal candidate will exhibit strong behavioural competencies such as problem-solving, clear communication, meticulous attention to detail, strong analytical skills, and a commitment to upholding organisational standards.

This role is well-suited for an aspiring compliance professional looking to deepen their expertise within a reputable financial institution. In South Africa, experienced Compliance Officers in the banking sector can expect competitive remuneration packages, often ranging significantly based on experience, qualifications, and the specific responsibilities of the role. Opportunities for advancement typically lie in specialising in particular areas of compliance, moving into management roles, or expanding into broader risk management functions within larger financial groups like Liberty.

• First Degree in Audit, Business Commerce, Legal or related 

Experience Required
Business Enablement
Compliance

• 2-5 years - The role requires a entry Compliance professional with knowledge of the relevant regulatory requirements and upcoming developments applicable in banking. 
• Experience within Africa Regions would be benefical. 
• Demonstrated experience working with Generative AI tools (MS Co Pilot etc.) and using prompt engineering techniques. 
• Drafting(Business documents, reporting, compliance risk management plans and regulatory universes). 
• Must have strong communication, time management and stakeholder management skills. 
• Must be capable of working in a team enviornment. 
• Conducting research would be benefical. 

Behavioural Competencies:

• Adopting Practical Approaches
• Articulating Information
• Checking Things
• Convincing People
• Developing Expertise
• Documenting Facts
• Embracing Change
• Exploring Possibilities
• Interpreting Data
• Making Decisions
• Providing Insights
• Upholding Standards

Technical Competencies:

• Evaluation of Internal Controls
• Financial Acumen
• Financial Industry Regulatory Framework
• Legal Compliance
• Process Governance
• Risk Awareness