This role sits inside the first line of defense of a large payments and acquiring operation in the financial sector, strengthening AML controls and KYC processes. The position combines hands-on KYC validation, alert management and process improvement, and will lead a small operational team while working closely with the AML compliance function and IT teams.
The mission
The team you join operates across merchant onboarding, alert processing and remediation for a portfolio that includes higher-risk merchant categories. The technical landscape includes screening tools, client databases and reporting tools used to validate due diligence, apply risk classification and prepare files for 2nd Line review. You will contribute to strengthening the AML/CFT framework and improving measurable KPIs such as SLA compliance and remediation completion rates.
On a day-to-day basis you will lead a team of 6 analysts, assign and prioritise cases, validate complex KYC files before escalation to 2nd Line, and own the end-to-end flow for onboarding due diligence and risk classification. You will produce weekly management reports, prepare documentation for audits, and coach junior consultants and internal staff through case reviews and workshops.
Your responsibilities
- Lead the team of 6 analysts to deliver timely, quality KYC decisions and remediation outcomes, improving SLA and completion metrics
- Validate complex onboarding and merchant files, ensuring due diligence, risk classification and screening results are documented before 2nd Line submission
- Oversee alert management and remediation exercises, ensuring escalations are justified, traceable and supported by evidence
- Produce concise weekly reports and audit-ready documentation for the AML compliance officer and senior management
- Train and mentor junior team members, run case review workshops and provide structured feedback to raise analysis quality
- Collaborate with Compliance and IT to propose and implement process improvements in screening and reporting workflows
Your profile
Essential skills
- Minimum 3 years practical experience in KYC and AML, including 1 to 2 years in a team lead or supervisory role within the first line of defense
- Proven knowledge of AML/CFT regulations and how they apply to merchant onboarding and monitoring
- Hands-on experience with alert management, remediation processes and screening tools
- Ability to validate onboarding due diligence, apply risk classification and use client databases and reporting tools effectively
- Strong prioritisation skills and calm decision making under pressure, with clear written communication for procedures and management reports
Preferred skills
- CAMS, ICA or equivalent certification
- Experience in payments or acquiring, with understanding of merchant-specific risks
Languages
- French, C1
- Dutch, C1
- English, C1
Education
- Bachelor or Master degree, or equivalent professional experience