AML Operations Team Lead

Role Overview

The Transaction Monitoring Team Lead is responsible for managing a team of AML investigators handling
-
- end transaction monitoring alerts and investigations. The role ensures
- quality, timely, and compliant case handling in line with client expectations and global AML regulations. The Team Lead serves as the bridge between operations management and analysts, overseeing daily workflow, quality, and performance while maintaining strong adherence to the
- based approach (RBA) and regulatory standards.

Key Responsibilities

1. People and Performance Management

• Lead, coach, and develop a team of AML analysts and investigators to achieve productivity, quality, and SLA targets.
• Conduct regular
  -
  - ones, performance reviews, and feedback sessions to foster continuous improvement.
• Identify training needs and collaborate with QC and Training SMEs to close knowledge or skill gaps.
• Promote team engagement, discipline, and accountability in line with company values and client expectations.

2. Operational Delivery

• Oversee
  -
  - day investigation workflow — allocation, prioritization, and case review — to ensure timely and accurate completion of alerts.
• Monitor individual and team performance metrics (throughput, quality, turnaround time) and drive corrective action when needed.
• Ensure investigation narratives, dispositions, and SAR recommendations meet internal and regulatory standards.
• Maintain clear audit trails, escalation logs, and adherence to case documentation standards.

3. Quality and Compliance Oversight

• Partner with QC and QA teams to ensure error rates remain within acceptable thresholds.
• Conduct random
  - checks or peer reviews to reinforce investigation quality and consistency.
• Act as first point of escalation for operational or procedural issues raised by analysts.
• Reinforce adherence to AML regulations (FATF, EU AMLD) and
  - specific policies.

4. Risk and Escalation Management

• Identify potential red flags, typologies, or emerging risks in daily operations.
• Escalate unusual trends, potential control gaps, or
  - risk cases to Operations Manager or MLRO-designated contacts.
• Support internal audits and ensure the team maintains full audit readiness and compliance with
  - keeping requirements.

5. Process and Stakeholder Collaboration

• Work closely with
  - functional teams (Training, QC, Reporting, Delivery Excellence) to streamline workflows and enhance investigation efficiency.
• Participate in calibration and governance sessions to align standards across delivery locations.
• Contribute to process improvement initiatives and suggest automation or
  - driven enhancements.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Economics, Business, Law, or related field.
• Must possess a valid work permit or hold European Union/Schengen citizenship

Experience

• 3-5 years total experience in AML or Financial Crime Operations.
• At least 2 years of leadership experience in managing transaction monitoring or investigative teams.
• Strong exposure to E2E investigation, alert handling, SAR/STR preparation, and AML quality frameworks.

Certifications

At least one of the following certifications: ICA certifications in AML, Financial Crime, or Compliance and/or CAMS (Certified Anti-Money Laundering Specialist

Skills

• Deep understanding of AML typologies,
  - flag indicators, and regulatory obligations.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and analytical
  - making skills.
• Strong report writing and case narrative skills.

Possess a valid work permit or residency for Portugal and/or citizenship of a European Union or Schengen Area country.