AML Team Manager

Our client is a well-established online gaming operator with a growing presence in the regulated iGaming space. As they continue to build out their Customer Risk Operations capability, they're looking for an experienced AML Team Manager & Deputy MLRO to lead their AML Operations function from their Malta office. This is a hands-on leadership role for someone who wants to be part of shaping a function from the ground up — leading a team of up to 12 while staying close to the investigations, the customer risk assessments, and the day-to-day decisions that protect the business from money laundering and terrorist financing risk. As Deputy MLRO, you'll also step in for the MLRO during periods of absence or delegation, keeping the business's AML/CFT reporting and regulatory obligations on track. Reporting to the Head of Customer Risk & Governance, you'll lead the day-to-day AML Operations function, ensuring customer due diligence, transaction monitoring and financial crime investigations are conducted effectively, consistently and in line with regulatory requirements. You'll support the MLRO in meeting the company's AML/CFT reporting, governance and regulatory obligations, and act with delegated MLRO authority where formally authorised — all while staying hands-on with investigations, process design and continuous improvement as the function matures. Building and continuously improving AML processes, operational controls and ways of working Overseeing customer due diligence, enhanced due diligence, source of funds/wealth, sanctions, PEP and adverse media reviews Investigating unusual activity reports and escalating suspected money laundering or terrorist financing concerns to the MLRO Preparing and, where authorised, submitting Suspicious Activity Reports (SARs/STRs) and regulatory reporting Acting with delegated MLRO authority during periods of the MLRO's absence, ensuring continuity of AML/CFT reporting and regulatory obligations Ensuring AML investigations are appropriately documented and capable of withstanding regulatory scrutiny Monitoring performance against KPIs, SLAs and quality standards, and driving corrective action where needed Supporting regulatory inspections, audits and internal reviews Leading workforce planning, resourcing and scheduling across the team Recruiting, coaching and developing a team of up to 12 AML Analysts Partnering closely with the MLRO, Compliance, Legal, Fraud, RG, Payments, Product, Data Analytics and Internal Audit, plus regulators, FIUs and law enforcement where authorised. Substantial AML operations experience, including proven people-management responsibility. Subject-matter expertise in AML/CFT legislation, regulatory expectations, customer due diligence, transaction monitoring and financial crime risk management. Experience managing AML investigations covering CDD, EDD, transaction monitoring, sanctions, PEPs and suspicious activity. Experience assessing source of funds, source of wealth and customer risk using a risk-based approach. Experience implementing operational processes within a regulated environment. Strong stakeholder management, and confident written and verbal communication. Sound judgement and the ability to make decisions under pressure. Nice to have: a formal leadership qualification, ACAMS/ICA or equivalent AML qualification, prior experience as a Deputy MLRO or supporting an MLRO, and a background in online gaming, financial services or payments.