Head of Business Acceptance - Elite International Law Firm

An exceptional opportunity has arisen for an experienced risk and compliance professional to step into a senior leadership role offering a highly attractive six-figure salary, hybrid working, and significant international exposure. This position offers the chance to shape and lead the firm’s Business Acceptance function across multiple jurisdictions, playing a pivotal role in safeguarding the firm while enabling its continued international growth.

Why apply?

Lead at scale – oversee a well-established AML and Conflicts function across key global offices

Influence at the top level – work closely with senior leadership

International exposure – engage with complex, cross-border matters, including US conflicts

Drive strategy and change – shape policy, processes, and best practice within a highly regarded firm

This role reports directly to the Director of Risk and carries overall responsibility for the firm’s Business Acceptance function across the UK, Ireland, and Dubai, with regular interaction with US teams. The successful individual will provide both strategic oversight and hands-on leadership, acting as a trusted advisor on complex AML, conflicts, sanctions, and financial crime matters, while ensuring robust compliance frameworks are maintained and continuously improved.

Key responsibilities

• Lead and oversee the Business Acceptance function, including AML and Conflicts
• Act as a senior escalation point for complex onboarding and conflicts issues
• Deputise for the MLRO, supporting on SARs and financial crime matters
• Liaise with international teams, particularly the US, on cross-border conflicts resolution
• Manage and develop a multi-location team, supported by a Business Acceptance Manager
• Oversee anti-bribery & corruption and sanctions frameworks, providing guidance to stakeholders
• Support regulatory audits and ensure recommendations are effectively implemented
• Deliver training and promote best practice across the firm
• Collaborate with senior business services leaders to drive operational excellence and alignment

This role would suit a seasoned risk and compliance professional, with strong experience, (at least 6 years) in an international law firm environment. Candidates will bring a deep understanding of AML, conflicts, and financial crime, alongside the ability to manage complex, high-stakes issues with a commercial and pragmatic approach. Experience with US conflicts frameworks is highly desirable. Strong leadership capability, excellent communication skills, and the ability to influence at all levels are essential. A legal qualification or equivalent experience in risk is expected.

This is a rare opportunity to take ownership of a critical function within a global firm, leading on everything from team management and regulatory engagement to complex conflicts resolution and financial crime oversight. The role combines strategic influence with operational leadership, offering both challenge and visibility in equal measure.