> Markdown version of [/jobs/ext/3208191-head-of-compliance-and-risk-uk](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/jobs/ext/3208191-head-of-compliance-and-risk-uk). Every page supports `.md` or `Accept: text/markdown`. Links point to the HTML versions so they work for humans too. Agent guide: [/agents.md](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/agents.md). --- # Head of Compliance and Risk (UK) - **Company:** Airwallex - **Location:** Kettering, UK - **Experience:** Expert - **Contract:** Permanent contract - **Skills:** Artificial Intelligence, Big Data, SQL Databases, Business Intelligence Development Studio, Data Analytics, Api Design - **Published:** September 26, 2026 - **Apply:** https://www.totaljobs.com/job/head-of-compliance/airwallex-uk-limited-job108053470 ## About the Role Proven experience, including senior leadership in large-scale, multi-jurisdiction operations in a rapidly growing regulated financial-services or payments/fintech business Proven track record of scaling Risk Operations (at least 2 of Payments, Issuing and Credit) across multiple geographies, and of building globally consistent performance Background in Fraud Ops and ATO risk control Strong commercial and analytical judgement - comfortable framing decisions in unit economics, scalability and return on investment Track record of operating at the Operations-Product-Risk intersection and driving cross-functional outcomes without full reporting-line authority Demonstrated delivery of automation/AI-led transformation in an operations setting Evidence of big data/analytics (including SQL, DBX and BI tooling) Preferred experience: Cross-border payments; multi-entity, multi-licence environments Experience across Payments, Issuing and Credit Risk Comfort with a highly technical, API-first product Exposure to IPO readiness / public-company control environments Top-tier consulting or operator-investor background (structured thinking under ambiguity) ## Description We hire successful builders with founder-like energy who want real impact, accelerated learning, and true ownership. You bring strong role-related expertise and sharp thinking, and you're motivated by our mission and . You move fast with good judgment, dig deep with curiosity, and make decisions from first principles, balancing speed and rigor.operating principles You're humble and collaborative; turn zero-to-one ideas into real products, and you "get stuff done" end-to-end. You use AI to work smarter and solve problems faster. Here, you'll tackle complex, high-visibility problems with exceptional teammates and grow your career as we build the future of global banking. If that sounds like you, let's build what's next. About the team: Risk Operations is a global 1LOD team responsible for the Acquiring, Issuing and Credit Risk domains. The team handles cases and investigations across product domains, working closely with 2LOD and Commercial teams to ensure that Airwallex operates within its risk appetite. The team is passionate about operational excellence and delivering an exceptional end-to-end customer experience. What you'll do: As the Senior Director/Head of Risk Operations, you will lead a global team responsible for defining procedures and delivering operational excellence across new client onboarding, periodic review and in-life behaviour. You will ensure that Airwallex champions high standards for integrity, judgement and documentation in all aspects of risk operations. Responsibilities: Own the vision, strategy and execution for Risk Operations Build, lead and develop high-performing a globally distributed team Own the location and resourcing strategy of the team, solving for 24/7 coverage, quality of customer experience and cost efficiency Create a repeatable & scalable operating rhythm, including clear OKRs Take a data-driven approach to performance management Strike the right balance between risk, customer experience and commercial impact, ensuring timely, high-quality decision making and communications Drive continuous improvement in the quality of procedures, playbooks and control frameworks, aligned to Airwallex financial crime and fraud policies defined by 2LOD and partnering closely with Risk Product and Engineering Ensure that Airwallex continues to improve the quality and consistency of documentation Lead AI transformation of the Risk Operations team This role will be based in either London or Singapore.