Money Laundering Reporting Officer, MLRO

This is a fully remote position, open to applicants in Kenya.

📋 Description

• Develop, implement, and uphold the company’s AML/CTF/CPF policies and procedures in line with the PMLA, the PMLR’s, the FRC Implementing Procedures, and other applicable regulations.

• Ensure the timely submission of Suspicious Transaction Reports (STRs) and Cash Transaction Reports (CTRs) to the FRC.

• Collaborate with management and staff to establish and maintain suitable systems and controls for meeting AML/CTF/CPF obligations.

• Oversee the preparation and coordination of responses to inquiries from regulatory authorities.

• Keep records of both internal and external reports, take necessary actions, and document reasons for submission or non-submission.

• Serve as the primary point of contact for relevant AML regulators.

• Investigate internal suspicious reports and report any external suspicious activities.

• Work together with other teams to compile the data needed for reports requested by regulators.

• Ensure adherence to local AML/CTF/CPF laws and regulations.

• Develop and maintain an AML/CTF/CPF training program, ensuring that relevant VALR employees receive adequate training.

• Provide periodic reports to VALR Kenya’s Board, Chief Compliance Officer, and Country Head, including updates on AML/CTF/CPF risks, controls, and any identified gaps.

• Communicate with and respond to information requests from regulators, law enforcement agencies, and the FRC.

• Collaborate with internal teams (legal, compliance, risk, and operations) to strengthen AML/CTF/CPF controls.

• Advise senior management on AML and financial crime compliance risks, recommending measures to mitigate those risks.

• Perform additional duties and responsibilities as necessary to ensure VALR Europe’s compliance with relevant AML/CTF/CPF regulations.

• Carry out any other MLRO compliance-related tasks as required by law or the business from time to time.

⛳️ Requirements

• At least 5 years of experience managing AML/CTF/CPF issues, with MLRO experience preferred, ideally in the financial services or cryptocurrency sectors.

• Familiarity with GoAML and Chainalysis (or similar cryptocurrency tracing software) is advantageous.

• Knowledge of the Kenyan AML/CFT/CPF framework, including the Proceeds of Crime and Anti-Money Laundering Act (POCAMLA), the Prevention of Terrorism Act (POTA), relevant AML/CFT/CPF Regulations and Guidelines from the Financial Reporting Centre (FRC), and sector-specific requirements from regulators like the Central Bank of Kenya (CBK). Experience with digital assets, virtual asset service providers (VASPs), and emerging regulatory frameworks for crypto-assets is a plus.

• Previous experience with a leading financial institution, crypto asset service provider, or payment service provider is highly desirable.

• Kenyan citizenship, permanent residency, or the legal right to work in Kenya is mandatory.

• Strong focus on AML/CTF/CPF regulatory compliance, with the ability to effectively manage complex financial crime issues.

• Extensive experience in financial crime compliance management, with a practical and solution-oriented approach.

• A passion for cryptocurrency and/or alternative financial systems, along with current industry knowledge.

🏝️ Benefits

• Innovative Work Environment

• Engage with cutting-edge blockchain technologies and tools within a fast-paced industry.

• Work from any location with secure and stable internet connectivity, enabling you to create your ideal workspace.

• Career Development

• Enjoy an annual professional development allowance along with scheduled company training sessions to keep you at the forefront of the crypto industry.

• Competitive Compensation

• Competitive salaries that meet industry standards.

• Your contributions to our success will be recognized with discretionary bonuses, reflecting your impact on VALR’s growth.

• Receive preferential Tier 5 trading fees on VALR, with no monthly trading volume requirement.

• Diversity and Inclusion

• A commitment to building a diverse workforce with initiatives that promote equity and belonging.

• Wellness

• Employees are encouraged to pursue balanced and fulfilling lives, achieving their work, personal, social, physical, and spiritual goals to the best of their abilities.

• Compliance with statutory leave requirements of individual countries, in addition to flexible leave options.

• Enjoy complimentary lunches when working from our Johannesburg Head Office, one of the ways we support well-being and connection in the workplace.

• Impact and Contribution

• At VALR, we are committed to a financial system that acknowledges the unity of humanity. Our mission is to dismantle financial barriers and promote universal values of courage, ethical integrity, and the intrinsic worth of every individual.

• Participate in initiatives that foster education and awareness about cryptocurrencies, ensuring everyone has the tools and knowledge to engage in the evolving financial landscape.

• Dynamic Team Culture

• Open communication and teamwork across departments, encouraging innovation and creativity.

• Participate in social gatherings outside of work to strengthen team bonds and enhance morale.

• Global Exposure

• Collaborate with colleagues from around the world.

• Gain exposure to diverse perspectives and practices in the crypto space.

• Recognition and Rewards

• Regular acknowledgment of employee achievements, cultivating a culture of appreciation and motivation.

• Join us for retreats that combine professional growth with team bonding in inspiring locations.

• Tools for Success

• Receive a Mac laptop and a discretionary allowance to acquire all necessary accessories for a productive home office—yours to keep after three years (terms and conditions apply).