Compliance Officer

The company

At Fora, we’re fueled by a desire to enhance the way people work. We’re here for the progressives, the forward thinkers, the status quo-challengers, the creators and the innovators. With signature hospitality, a likeminded community of members and a re-energising wellness experience, Fora takes the grind out of daily work-life, so members can focus on what’s important – working productively, healthily and happily.

Our journey began over 20 years ago, when we opened our first location on London’s City Road. Since then, our collection has grown to over 60 distinctive workspaces across London, the UK and Germany, totaling 3.2 million sq ft of real estate. And in the last two decades we’ve welcomed nearly 30,000 members through our doors and boast market-leading retention rates.

As a trusted workspace provider for teams of all sizes, from established brands to new ventures, our uniquely designed, flexible office spaces come with a range of exceptional on-site amenities and a dedicated Member Experience team to take care of all the day-to-day details. Ocado, The British Fashion Council, BP and Pangaia are just some of the businesses who call a Fora workspace home.

Fora is part of The Office Group, backed by Blackstone and Brockton Capital. We have ambitious plans to expand our collection of workspaces in the future, pioneering industry change through our conscious design and construction practices, and creating workspaces that empower our members to work in their own unique way.

The Role

The Compliance Officer will play a critical role in the first line of defence, ensuring the accurate and timely onboarding of clients and suppliers in compliance with anti-money laundering regulations. The role is vital for identifying and mitigating risks related to money laundering, fraud, tax evasion, and other financial crimes. The Compliance Officer will ensure adherence to all regulatory requirements and support the business in maintaining high standards of compliance.

Key Responsibilities

• Client & Supplier Onboarding: Conduct due diligence (CDD/KYC) on new clients and suppliers to ensure compliance with regulatory requirements and company policies. Verify the identity of clients and suppliers using various tools and methods, ensuring data accuracy and authenticity.
• Risk Assessment: Assess potential compliance risks associated with new and existing clients and suppliers, escalating any high-risk cases to the second line of defence as required.
• Documentation & Record-Keeping: Maintain accurate and up-to-date records of all onboarding activities, ensuring they are readily available for audits and regulatory reporting.
• Policy Adherence: Ensure all activities align with the company’s compliance policies and procedures, including periodic reviews and updates.
• Training & Support: Provide training and guidance to internal teams on onboarding processes and compliance standards.
• Liaison with Stakeholders: Work closely with internal departments (sales, operations, finance) and external stakeholders (clients, suppliers) to resolve any compliance-related queries or issues.
• Continuous Improvement: Participate in improving compliance processes by identifying gaps and suggesting enhancements.

Requirements

• 1-2 years of experience in KYC / customer onboarding within a regulated industry.
• Good understanding of AML/CTF regulatory requirements in the UK and EU.
• Experience with corporate entity due diligence and enhanced due Diligence (EDD) reviews.
• Data protection experience advantageous.
• Data protection experience advantageous.
• KYC/AML Expertise: In-depth knowledge of KYC and AML processes and regulatory requirements.
• Data Analysis: Ability to analyse large volumes of client and supplier data to assess compliance risks.
• Attention to Detail: Ability to focus on small details and handle large volumes of tasks with accuracy.
• Time management: Strong time management skills, and ability to meet targets and SLAs.
• Communication Skills: Excellent written and verbal communication skills to liaise with internal and external stakeholders.
• Problem Solving: Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, and ability to apply critical thinking to complete complex tasks.
• Technical Proficiency: Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and experience using onboarding and screening software.
• ICA, ACAMS, or equivalent compliance qualifications are advantageous.

Benefits

At The Office Group, we know that work isn’t just about working. We offer all of our employers a fantastic range of benefits, including;

• Flexible working hours
• Hybrid working
• 28 days annual leave
• 2 weeks work from anywhere
• Annual leave purchase scheme
• Healthshield
• LinkedIn learning
• Study support
• 5% Pension scheme
• Life Assurance
• Discounted Gym membership
• Season Ticket Loan
• Cycle to Work Scheme
• 25% Discount at The Office Group Cafes
• Summer and EOY events
• Discounted event spaces