Client Onboarding Officer (AML/Conflicts) Belfast, Northern Ireland
Job description
The role of Client Onboarding Officer is to assist with the onboarding of new matters and new clients within Fieldfisher's systems, and to assist management and fee-earners in such ad-hoc tasks as would make use of their abilities. The role is primarily divided between two functions, Client Due Diligence and Conflicts Clearance.
Inclusiveness and Diversity
At Fieldfisher we are committed to creating an inclusive workplace where everyone feels valued, motivated and able to be themselves. Our Inclusiveness and Diversity ("I&D") Strategy is firmly rooted in Fieldfisher's overall business strategy; we very much view I&D as being core to the business and we aim to integrate it into all our systems and processes.
Accessibility information for our Belfast Hub can be found on our website: https://www.fieldfisher.com/en/locations/united-kingdom/contact-us/offices/accessing-fieldfisher-belfast-hub
Please note Fieldfisher aims to ensure equality of opportunity and we are actively working towards improving the diversity of our staff. All applications will only be considered on merit and the applicant's suitability to meet the requirements of the role.
What can you expect?
Client Due Diligence
- Researching clients using the firm's systems or public sources to meet our regulatory requirements on Client Due Diligence
- Communicating clearly with the Partnership what may be required of Clients to fulfil said requirements
- Advising on CDD requirements for our overseas offices which may differ from the UK approach
- Using screening tools to carry out risk assessments at client inception and also when CDD records are updated to see whether the client presents a higher than usual risk of money laundering
- Carrying out research to establish whether there is any adverse press about a prospective client and assessing its relevance
- Carrying out searches to identify whether a client is a politically exposed person and preparing emails for Senior Management's approval
- Carrying out research on the source of wealth and funds and assisting with advice on this to the partners and fee-earners advising
- Filing appropriately and diligently so that centralised records of client approvals are maintained
- Escalating issues or concerns to management in an effective manner
Conflicts Clearance
- Carrying out conflicts searches using data submitted by partners and other fee earners
- Reporting back to the partner/ fee earner on the results of the search Identifying potential conflicts issues and escalating them to more senior members of the Compliance team
Ad Hoc Assistance
- Assisting Fee-Earners, PAs and other business services colleagues on frequently asked questions relating to billing and file opening
- Assisting the Money Laundering Reporting Officer with research surrounding suspicious actively reports
- Providing Training on Onboarding issues (e.g. AML / Conflicts)
A bit about you
- Experience in conflicts of interest checking and/or AML checking
- Understanding of the law firm model would be advantageous
- Excellent research skills
- Organisation skills and the ability to juggle demanding deadlines
- Strong communicator
- Self motivator, able to work independently and as part of a team
What can we offer you?
Our people are at the core of what we do. Fieldfisher's benefits package is designed to enable all colleagues to thrive in an inclusive and supportive environment. These benefits range from private health insurance, life assurance & income protection, flexi-gym discounts, season ticket loans, bike-to-work loans and much more.
Fieldfisher Belfast is based in the vibrant and modern offices located in the iconic Titanic Quarter. You will be joining a new and exciting office environment which has seen rapid expansion since its opening in August 2018. And yes, we're all aboard the 'hot-desking' bandwagon but who isn’t in 2022!? There's nothing better than a modern, open plan workspace – friendly Office Manager included.
With a diverse team of over 100 Fee Earning and Business Support staff, Summer and Winter parties and our Ministry of Fun (quiz nights, cake sales, group runs, sports teams etc), we really have nailed this collaborative & fun work environment thing. But please don't take our word for it, check out our website and social media accounts to see for yourself!
