Regional KYC Operations Manager – APAC

About the Role

We are seeking an experienced Regional KYC Operations Manager to lead a regional Client Due Diligence function within a leading international financial institution.

The role will oversee KYC operations across multiple markets, ensuring high-quality client onboarding and periodic review delivery while maintaining strong governance, risk and control standards.

Key Responsibilities

KYC Operations & Delivery

Take ownership of the team's workflow and overall book of work from allocation through completion.
Drive productivity, capacity planning and service delivery while maintaining high quality and control standards.
Oversee KYC due diligence activities in line with internal policies and regulatory requirements.
Ensure the accuracy and integrity of client data and management information.
Work closely with regional and global teams to ensure consistent and timely delivery.

Stakeholder Management

Partner closely with Front Office, Compliance and other operational teams to facilitate document collection and resolve KYC issues.
Act as an escalation point for complex client due diligence matters.
Provide senior management with clear, data-driven updates on performance, operational risks and key issues.
Build strong relationships with internal stakeholders and ensure the KYC function provides responsive, business-focused support.

Governance, Compliance & Risk

Ensure KYC activities comply with applicable policies, procedures and control standards.
Provide guidance on complex cases involving PEPs, adverse media, ownership structures and other enhanced due diligence matters.
Escalate material or high-risk issues appropriately to Compliance and relevant global teams.
Maintain a strong focus on operational risk, quality assurance and regulatory compliance.

Continuous Improvement & Transformation

Identify opportunities to improve processes, productivity and service quality.
Lead or support KYC-related process improvement, technology implementation and UAT initiatives.
Contribute to regional and global transformation projects.
Use data and workflow tools to identify trends, bottlenecks and opportunities for operational improvement.
Drive initiatives that enhance efficiency while strengthening controls and stakeholder experience.

Leadership & People Management

Lead and develop a sizeable team of KYC professionals.
Establish clear objectives, performance expectations and development plans.
Coach and mentor team members and build a high-performance, collaborative culture.
Manage teams across different locations and support effective remote working arrangements.
Develop talent and strengthen the team's technical and operational capabilities.

Requirements Bachelor's degree in Finance, Business, or a related discipline.
12+ years of experience within financial services, with strong exposure to KYC, AML, Client Due Diligence or related operations.
Proven experience managing and developing KYC/AML teams.
Strong understanding of KYC, AML, PEPs, adverse media, beneficial ownership and complex corporate structures.
Experience working with regional or multi-location teams.
Strong stakeholder management skills, with the ability to engage Front Office, Compliance and senior management.
Demonstrated experience in process improvement, operational transformation or technology implementation within a KYC environment.
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.

23C1935

R1105492

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