About the Client
Our client is a UK-based Electronic Money Institution (EMI) that recently obtained principal membership with Visa and Mastercard and is now launching its acquiring business in the United Kingdom. The company operates in a high-growth segment of the fintech industry, providing secure and compliant payment infrastructure for international merchants, with a particular focus on high-risk industries.

Role Overview
We are looking for an experienced Money Laundering Reporting Officer (MLRO) with a strong background in acquiring and deep understanding of the UK regulatory environment. The ideal candidate will have hands-on experience working within a regulated EMI and managing AML frameworks for high-risk merchant portfolios.
This is a senior key role responsible for leading AML strategy, ensuring full compliance with UK regulations, and maintaining effective communication with the FCA and card schemes.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee and continuously improve the company’s AML/CTF and sanctions framework in accordance with UK laws and FCA guidance.

• Act as the main point of contact with regulatory bodies, including the FCA, and card schemes (Visa and Mastercard).

• Develop and maintain policies, procedures, and controls aligned with card scheme and regulatory standards.

• Supervise KYC, merchant onboarding, and transaction monitoring processes, with a focus on high-risk verticals (crypto, gambling, FX).

• Ensure timely submission of SARs and other regulatory reports.

• Lead internal AML training and awareness programs for staff.

• Collaborate closely with Compliance, Risk, and Operations teams to ensure a unified compliance culture.

• Support audits, regulatory inspections, and scheme reviews.

Requirements

• Proven experience as an MLRO, senior AML & Compliance related roles within a UK EMI.

• Strong background in acquiring and experience working directly with Visa and Mastercard as a principal member.

• Experience managing AML frameworks for high-risk industries (crypto, gambling, FX, adult).

• Deep understanding of UK AML regulations, FCA requirements, and card scheme compliance.

• Residency, citizenship, or permanent right to work in the UK is mandatory.

• Full professional fluency in English and Russian (both written and spoken).

Soft Skills

• High integrity and strong ethical standards.

• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.

• Strategic yet hands-on approach to problem-solving.

• Ability to make sound compliance decisions in complex, high-risk environments.

What We Offer

• A key leadership role in a licensed UK EMI at an exciting stage of business expansion.

• Opportunity to build and own the AML function for the acquiring division.

• Collaborative international team and supportive leadership.

• Competitive compensation package.

• Flexible hybrid working model.