September 20, 2024

Baker McKenzie

Buenos Aires

AML/KYC* Compliance Coordinator (*Anti-Money Laundering / Know your Client)

The AML/KYC* Compliance Coordinator will undertake detailed analytical research of clients and parties on a global basis to provide efficient and effective Client Due Diligence (CDD) services to Firm Partners and local offices in new and existing client registrations and matters.

The role holder will utilize knowledge and experience of Know Your Customer (KYC) and Anti-Money Laundering (AML) and Sanctions screening activities to carry out risk-based reviews and make decisions to support timely client onboarding and matter processing, ensuring compliance with ethical, legal, and regulatory requirements. They will also, review and disposition alerts generated through screening of clients and parties; conduct beneficial ownership investigations, and undertake periodic reviews of existing client profiles.

Responsibilities:

Undertake day-to-day compliance activities in line with AML obligations
Provide all aspects of support to the Firm, its Partners, and offices about the AML/KYC function within New Business Intake (NBI)
Diligently review and assess the AML and reputational risks associated with all new client and matter requests submitted via the Firm’s intake system (Intapp) to perform KYC/CDD
Perform detailed investigations to identify the presence of Politically Exposed Persons (PEPs) or Closely Related Associates (CRAs), Adverse Media, and Sanctions, utilizing several trusted industry sources (such as World-Check, D&B, Hoovers, Lexis Nexis), providing a concise rationale for false or positive ‘match’ decisions
Conduct independent verification of client due diligence information using additional research methods
Make sound and educated decisions regarding the existence and validity of possible AML, Sanctions, or reputational concerns and complete subsequent follow-up activities
Conduct thorough beneficial ownership investigations to provide results to local offices and ensure compliance with Firm policies and procedures
Thoroughly document research and analysis completed on clients and/or matters in a manner suitable for review by internal and external stakeholders e.g. Regulators, Audit, Risk, and Compliance
Provide results of screening and client due diligence undertaken to offices at agreed frequencies and work to address any CDD concerns
Periodically evaluate existing client profiles to keep client files up-to-date
Conduct enhanced due diligence and monitoring of higher-risk relationships
Review results of ongoing screening and monitoring activities to determine if further action or escalation is required, clearly documenting results and decisions made
Operate within agreed SLAs and confidentiality standards
Build trusted relationships with key internal stakeholders; Partners, Fee Earners, PAs, local AML/Compliance Managers
Support internal testing and audit requirements
Assist with any other AML Compliance-related matters or projects as identified and assigned by the AML Compliance Manager
Assist with developing training materials, team standards, presentations, and courses on AML compliance awareness
Engage and collaborate with team members through the presentation of ideas and recommendations regarding best practice, continuous improvement, departmental processes, policies, and procedures

Skills and Experience:

Bachelor's degree required (2:1 or above preferred)
Strong understanding of AML/CTF requirements and financial crime risks associated with the range of services in the legal industry
Good relevant AML experience
Strong analytical and research skills
Experience with AML/KYC/Due Diligence processes and systems
Experience with AML monitoring and screening
Ability to manage processes efficiently, with accuracy and attention to detail
A recognized AML/Compliance qualification is desirable but not essential
Excellent communication skills, written and verbal
Strong decision-making capabilities
Team player adaptable to a fast-paced and changing environment
Good planning, time management, a prioritization of skills
Ability to work independently and also to liaise with other departments
Must have good knowledge of Microsoft Office applications and other productivity tools (Intapp knowledge is an advantage)
Flexibility to work a reasonable shifting schedule is required
Exceptional problem-solving, critical thinking, and analytical skills
Ability to contribute ideas for process improvements and adapt easily to procedural changes
Positivity and the adoption of a solution-based approach in all aspects of work