Head Compliance MLRO

Robert Walters Switzerland is recruiting a Head Compliance and MLRO for a Zürich-based asset manager specializing in crypto assets. This senior role requires extensive experience in Swiss financial regulation and AML frameworks.

The company is seeking a senior leader to head its compliance function and serve as the Money Laundering Reporting Officer (MLRO). The position focuses on strengthening the financial crime framework for an asset management firm centered on digital assets, ensuring strict adherence to Swiss regulatory standards while supporting business growth.

Responsibilities

• Direct the ongoing improvement of the organization's compliance and financial crime structures.
• Act as the official MLRO and main point of contact for all anti-money laundering issues.
• Guarantee adherence to FINMA rules, Swiss AML laws, and other relevant regulatory duties.
• Create, execute, and upkeep internal policies, procedures, and control mechanisms.
• Supervise AML processes, KYC checks, sanctions screening, transaction monitoring, and reporting of suspicious activities.
• Advise senior leadership and business units on regulatory implications for new products and strategic plans.
• Communicate with FINMA, self-regulatory organizations, auditors, banking partners, and other external parties.
• Handle regulatory reporting and manage responses to inspections and inquiries from authorities.
• Perform compliance risk assessments and track regulatory changes impacting digital assets and financial services.
• Organize compliance training and promote a culture of integrity throughout the organization.
• Lead, mentor, and expand the compliance team in line with business expansion.

Requirements

• Over 12 years of experience in compliance, financial crime, AML, or regulatory risk within the financial sector.
• Substantial background in cryptocurrency, digital assets, fintech, banking, or securities industries.
• Prior experience as an MLRO or in a similar senior compliance leadership position.
• Deep understanding of Swiss financial regulations, including FINMA guidelines, AMLA, AMLO, and related frameworks.
• Proven track record of interacting directly with regulators, auditors, and external stakeholders.
• Ability to design and strengthen compliance programs in regulated environments.
• Strong commercial judgment to balance regulatory obligations with business goals.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and stakeholder management capabilities.
• Fluency in both German and English, spoken and written.

Nice to have

• Professional certifications such as CAMS, CAS Compliance, ICA, or a legal qualification are considered advantageous.