AML Operations and Compliance Lead Lisboa

AML Operations and Compliance Lead
Lisboa
Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal

We are seeking an experienced AML Operations Lead – Compliance to oversee the operational effectiveness of our compliance framework. This role will ensure that policies, processes, and systems meet regulatory standards and internal governance requirements while driving operational efficiency. The ideal candidate will combine strong leadership skills with a deep understanding of compliance operations and stakeholder management.
Key Responsibilities
Operational Leadership & Oversight
Lead
-
- day compliance operations, ensuring processes align with regulatory and internal requirements.
Manage compliance monitoring, reporting, and escalation frameworks.
Develop and maintain operational dashboards and KPIs to measure compliance effectiveness.
Regulatory & Risk Management
Ensure adherence to all relevant regulations, industry standards, and internal policies.
Identify operational risks and partner with Compliance, Legal, and Risk teams to mitigate them.
Oversee audits, inspections, and regulatory inquiries, ensuring timely responses.
Process & Systems Management
Drive continuous improvement of
- related workflows, tools, and technologies.
Collaborate with
- functional teams to embed compliance requirements into business processes.
Standardize procedures across functions to improve efficiency and reduce risk exposure.
People & Stakeholder Management
Lead, mentor, and develop a team of compliance operations professionals.
Act as the main liaison between Compliance, Business Units, and senior leadership.
Build a strong culture of compliance awareness across the organization.
Qualifications & Experience
Bachelor’s degree in Business, Law, Finance, or related field (Master’s or certification in Compliance/Risk preferred).
3+ years of experience in compliance operations, regulatory, or risk management lead roles.
At least one of the following certifications: ICA certifications in AML, Financial Crime, or Compliance and/or CAMS (Certified Anti-Money Laundering Specialist)
English Level - Minimum B2
Possess a valid work permit or residency for Portugal and/or citizenship of a European Union or Schengen Area country.
Proven experience in leading operational teams with strong process orientation.
Strong knowledge of regulatory frameworks (e. g. , AML, KYC, GDPR, SOX, local jurisdiction rules as applicable).
Excellent analytical,
- solving, and
- making skills.
Effective communicator with the ability to influence stakeholders across all levels.
Key Competencies
Leadership & Team Management
Operational Excellence & Process Improvement
Risk & Compliance Knowledge
Stakeholder Engagement
Analytical & Strategic Thinking