Jobs in financial compliance encompass a range of skills, centred on monitoring a business’s adherence to regulations. This includes identifying risks in systems and controls, alongside carrying out audits and quality assurance. Communicating with third party legal advisers on ensuring financial documentation conforms to guidelines is also expected.
Qualifications and entry requirements
The types of roles that exist in this sub-sector are entry-level Compliance Assistant positions, moving up to Officer and eventually management level. All roles serve to promote best practice within the finance industry, and responsibility rises at each level.
Candidates will benefit from a relevant undergraduate degree in a related subject, such as Finance, Law or Business, and even a Masters Degree in the same areas. Professional qualifications in finance or accounting from a certified body are useful. A working knowledge of the Financial Services Authority rules is also necessary.
Salaries
Employment in this field is usually in corporate financial organisations of different sizes. Desk-based work is the norm for this type of role, however some companies will require staff to visit other sites. Entry-level salaries are prosperous, with the average starting salary around £28,000 - £30,000, rising in steady increments. A Head of Compliance can expect to earn around £60,000 - £70,000 per annum, and as high as £90,000 in London.
Recruitment agencies hire for contract or permanent roles in this field, with most opportunities in London. Competition is high, but candidates with a 2:1 or above undergraduate degree, and an appropriate work history, are most likely to be appointed.