A leading European financial institution is seeking an experienced and strategic Head of Sanctions to lead and evolve its group-wide sanctions compliance framework. This is a key leadership role within the Anti-Financial Crime division, offering significant influence over sanctions governance across the firm’s European operations and its regional service network.
In this role, you will take responsibility for designing and steering the institution’s sanctions compliance strategy, ensuring alignment with global regulatory standards (EU, UK, US, UN). You will act as a key advisor to senior leadership, supervise operational teams, and drive the development of a robust control framework for sanctions risk.
This includes oversight of both incoming and outgoing sanctions-related services as part of a multi-entity outsourcing model, as well as collaboration with regional stakeholders to align standards, implement best practices, and respond proactively to regulatory developments.
Lead the strategic development and execution of the institution’s European sanctions compliance programme
Serve as trusted subject matter expert to the senior leadership, advising on legal, regulatory, and reputational risk exposure related to sanctions
Oversee day-to-day operations of the sanctions programme, including transaction screening, escalation handling, and case resolution
Direct and mentor a dedicated sanctions team; manage functional and disciplinary leadership responsibilities
Coordinate regional initiatives and contribute to global project streams in collaboration with international counterparts
Monitor global regulatory developments and assess implications for European business units
Manage sanctions-related service delivery across a network of internal and external stakeholders (service provider and recipient)
Deliver training, regulatory reporting, and ensure audit-readiness across all related processes
Seasoned professional in Financial Crime Compliance with a focus on international sanctions
Expertise in global sanctions regimes (EU/UK/US/UN) and their application within corporate banking
Strong knowledge of trade finance, international payments, and sanctions screening technologies
Experience in leading teams and engaging with regulators, auditors, and senior internal stakeholders
Academic background in Law, Business, or related field; banking apprenticeship also considered
Fluency in English and German is required
Strategic leadership role with cross-border impact
High degree of autonomy and senior exposure
Hybrid and flexible working model
Attractive benefits package and competitive compensation
Opportunities for regional collaboration and global project participation
