Lead Compliance Officer

About the Company and Role
We are looking for a Lead Compliance Officer to join a private financial company operating within the AIFC (Astana International Financial Centre) framework.
This is a key role within the Compliance function, reporting directly to the Chief Compliance Officer and succeeding the current Chief in the near future.
You will work on real business cases, active clients, and regulatory matters — not formal compliance for the sake of reporting.
The role combines hands-on execution with the opportunity to gradually expand responsibility and influence within the compliance function, including participation in product discussions, licensing processes, and risk-related decision-making.
Location: Almaty / Astana, Kazakhstan, full-time office role.
We are offering:
Competitive, market-aligned salary (flexible based on experience and certifications);
Full-time, office-based role in Almaty or Astana;
Direct collaboration with senior management;
Work on real compliance cases, transactions, and regulatory interactions;
Participation in licensing processes and development of new directions, including crypto-related compliance;
Opportunity for professional growth and expansion of responsibilities over time;
Standard employment benefits (official employment, paid leave, sick leave).
Interview Process:
HR screening;
Interview with the current Chief Compliance Officer and Finance Director;
Final interview with the company leadership;
Job offer.
Responsibilities:
Ensure compliance with AFSA/AIFC regulatory requirements, including AML/CTF and sanctions compliance;
Participate in the development, implementation, and maintenance of AML/CTF and sanctions frameworks using a risk-based approach;
Perform KYC, CDD, and EDD reviews, transaction monitoring, sanctions screening, and insider list control;
Prepare analytical quarterly and annual compliance reports for senior management and the Board;
Interact with regulators, auditors, and external counterparties on compliance-related matters;
Conduct internal compliance reviews across business units and monitor remediation actions;
Participate in the review of new products and services, identifying and mitigating compliance risks at early stages;
Organize and deliver AML/CTF and compliance training for company employees;
Maintain, update, and improve internal compliance documentation and procedures.
What kind of qualifications we are looking for:
Higher education in Law, Finance, Economics, or International Law;
5+ years of experience in AML/CTF, compliance, financial control, or related roles within financial, investment, brokerage, fintech, or consulting companies;
Solid knowledge of AFSA/AIFC AML Rules, FATF standards, EU AML Directives (5AMLD/6AMLD), and international sanctions regimes;
Practical experience with KYC/CDD/EDD processes, transaction monitoring, sanctions screening, and compliance reporting;
Experience interacting with AFSA, AIFC, or other regulators is a strong advantage;
Professional certifications (CAMS, ICA, CCEP, CFE or similar) are a plus, but not mandatory;
English — Upper-Intermediate (B2) or higher, with strong reading and understanding of regulatory and legal documentation;
Willingness to work from the office in Almaty or in Astana.
If you are seeking a role where compliance serves as a business partner rather than a formal control function, we would be pleased to review your application.