Head of Compliance - UK
Sokin
Legal
London, UK
Role
We are seeking a highly experienced and strategic Head of UK Compliance to lead our compliance function within the UK market. This role will be pivotal in ensuring that the company meets all regulatory requirements while fostering a culture of compliance throughout the organization. The successful candidate will serve as the primary point of contact with UK regulators, including the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), and will oversee all compliance-related activities within the region.
About Us
Sokin is a next-generation B2B financial services provider, enabling businesses to make and receive global payments with greater speed, lower cost, and total transparency. Our mission is simple: we’re simplifying global business - so businesses thrive wherever they choose to grow.
We deliver services across:
Global payments and receivables
Foreign Exchange (FX)
Treasury management
Finance reconciliations
We are rapidly expanding, with established presence in EMEA, APAC, and North America. Backed by a strong global infrastructure and industry-leading partners, we are redefining how businesses move money worldwide.
Our clients span industries from sports and entertainment to logistics and travel, and our community is growing rapidly. As we continue to expand, we’re building a team of exceptional people who share our ambition to transform the future of global payments.
Key Responsibilities
Lead UK compliance and develop strategies to ensure compliance with all applicable laws, regulations, and internal policies.
Maintain and manage relationships with UK regulatory bodies, primarily the FCA, ensuring timely and effective communication.
Oversee the implementation and maintenance of compliance programs, including AML, KYC, GDPR, and financial crime prevention.
Conduct regular risk assessments and ensure appropriate controls are in place to mitigate compliance risks.
Advise senior management and the board on compliance-related matters and emerging regulatory trends.
Develop and deliver compliance training programs to ensure all employees understand their obligations.
Monitor regulatory changes and advise on necessary adjustments to company policies and procedures.
Prepare and submit regulatory reports, ensuring accuracy and adherence to deadlines.
Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including Legal, Risk, and Operations, to support business objectives while ensuring compliance.
Lead internal and external compliance audits and address any findings in a timely manner.
What success looks like in 12 months
After 12 months, you’ll be a trusted compliance lead for the UK business, with strong relationships across the company and with the FCA.
You’ll have a clear handle on Sokin’s UK regulatory obligations, with effective oversight of core compliance activity and a practical approach to managing risk and regulatory change.
Success in the role will look like:
Leading a strong, well-run UK compliance framework
Building credibility with the FCA and other key stakeholders
Ensuring core programmes such as AML, KYC, GDPR and financial crime controls are working effectively
Giving clear, practical advice to the business on compliance matters
Strengthening policies, monitoring and reporting where needed
Helping create a culture where compliance is understood, valued and built into day-to-day decision-making
A strong first year will mean the UK business is well supported, well governed, and able to grow with confidence in a regulated environment.
Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in Law, Finance, Business, or a related field; relevant certifications (e.g., ICA, ACAMS) are highly desirable.
Experience as a FCA approved individual.
Extensive knowledge of UK financial regulations, including FCA guidelines, AML laws, and data protection regulations.
Proven experience managing relationships with regulatory bodies.
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, capable of influencing stakeholders at all levels.
High level of integrity, attention to detail, and the ability to make sound judgments under pressure.
Please note, candidates will need to have the right to work in the jurisdiction that they are looking to work in.
We are an equal opportunities employer committed to creating an inclusive work environment. As a growing global startup, we value agility and flexibility in our working culture. If you require any accommodations during the recruitment process, please let us know.